About
Length (round trip)7.4 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyStrenuous
Elevation gain1,400 ft up
Typical time4 hr 30 min
TrailheadHalemauu trailhead, mile 14.6
SurfaceCliff-edge switchbacks then crater floor
Best seasonYear round. The summit sits above 9,000 feet and can be near freezing at dawn; the Kipahulu coast is hot and humid.
DogsNot allowed
What you'll see ⛰️ Summit🌄 Big views🦌 Wildlife🎒 Backpacking

Down the Halemauu switchbacks and across the crater floor to the Holua wilderness cabin.

Tips
The switchbacks descend a sheer cliff wall and are the most dramatic stretch of trail in the park. Cabin stays are allocated by advance lottery.
Location

Halemauu trailhead, mile 14.6

🎒 What to pack

This trail is set up for backpacking, so it's worth packing for a night out as well as the walk.

Other Hikers
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Trail data: USGS National Map / PAD-US, the National Park Service, state agencies, and © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Access and conditions change — check with the managing agency before you go.