Hotspots > Hawaii Volcanoes National Park > Hiking >

Distance: 6.8 miles / Level: difficult / Time: 4 hours

This challenging backcountry trail begins on the Chain of Craters Road and crosses barren lava fields, dry land forests and brush as it descends 2500 feet to the Keauhou beach and shelter. This long and hot trek is popular with backpackers and provides spectacular coastline and lava flow vistas as well as excellent fishing and tide pool exploration opportunities. This trail is for experienced backpackers only and camping permits must be obtained at the park headquarters. The Keauhou trail can be used to connect with the Puna coastal trail to access beautiful Halapae beach.