Visit the city for a variety of reasons Big Island of Hawaii. The island, which covers over 4,000 square kilometers, is full of sights and experiences that are once in a lifetime. From black sand beach to waterfalls and rainforests, as well as one of the most beautiful national park’s in the country, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It is especially appealing to travelers who seek adventure and breathtaking views. 1.4 million people The park will be open in 2024.
Chain of Craters Road, although the national park offers a variety of hiking trails, is a great way to see the varied terrain. One of the two primary roads within the park—Crater Rim Drive is the other—the Chain of Craters Road The volcano is 19 miles long and offers some of the most stunning, powerful views of the volcanic landscape.
It should only take you around 30 minutes to drive without any traffic or stopping. 30 minutes. You will find many pull-offs and lookouts along the road, so it is worth taking a longer, more leisurely drive.
Chain of Craters Road begins close to the Devastation Trailhead and descends 3,700 feet from the summit of Kīlauea to sea level. Along the route, you’ll see the Puhimau CraterThe steam plumes that occasionally appear (puhimau Translation: “forever cigarette” and the Mau Loa O Maunaulu Pullout where visitors can witness the lava flows which covered the area from 1969 to 1974.
The largest concentration of petroglyphs can be found in Hawaii. Puʻuloa Petroglyphs. You can access the database of more than 23,000 photos via a 1.4-mile round-trip hike. Parking is available on Chain of Craters Road.
Chain of Craters has undergone significant changes over the years, especially as lava flowed have covered it. As of 2025, the scenic drive abruptly ends at a lava flow spot near Hōlei Sea Arch, the 90-foot-tall arch of lava rock that extends from the cliffs down into the ocean. The National Park Service The arch’s observation is about 1,000 feet beyond the gate.
Be sure to check your safety precautions prior to starting the trip. Pack snacks and water and make sure to fill up the car. There are no stores or gas stations along the route. The cell phone service can be very limited. Download your maps in advance and tell someone your estimated return time. Check the National Park Service Website for any updates and closures.
