Twin Pit Craters, along with the Cone Crater a short distance away makes for an interesting 6.4 mile out and back hike and an off-the-beaten-path trail in the interior of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. For those looking to explore a little deeper and further away from the Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road areas, this hike offers a chance to explore a surreal volcanic landscape that eventually leads to several craters with deep sheer drops to the bottom, as well as active volcanic vents.
Starting at a small turnout along Hilina Pali Rd a short distance past Kuanaokuaiki Campground, the Maunaiki Trail heads out into a lava field which soon loses sight of the road and it soon becomes clear how absolutely immense the landscape of this lava flow is. Formed predominantly from a 1790 eruption of Kilauea, the path shortly leaves an area dotted with trees and descends into a field that is near barren except for various forms of volcanic rock. With an almost moonscape atmosphere along the trail, much of the hike is spent following a series of cairns built along the route. Hikers should note that this trail will likely take slightly longer than usual to complete owing to the time given to look for the next cairn in the distance. Alternatively, portions of the trail pass through soft black sand.
Pele's hair, a foamlike fibrous rock of volacanic ash, lines much of the path following recent eruptions, and can blow through the air or work its way into your shoes. Eye protection and clothing preparation for this is suggested.
Looking down narrow fissures in the stone at depths sometimes appearing up to 40' deep is an interesting aspect of the hike. Active volcanic vents in the area can also make for an interesting detour.
The Twin Pit Craters are two sheer holes in the ground at vertigo-inducing depths. It may take some wandering to find the best perspective to look down, as signs warn of the overhanging ledges and danger of approaching the sides of the craters. A cone crater a very short distance away can also be walked to. Hikers should be aware that only a couple small wooden signs mark the site and that utmost caution should be exercised in this area.
From here, hikers can return the way they came, or can proceed to the Kau Desert Trail if continuing further.
The Twin Pit Craters presents an interesting landmark along a moderately easy trail in the park's vast backcountry.
A vault toilet and trash/recycling cans are located about a quarter mile away at Kuanaokuaiki Campground. Hikers should be aware that there is no water available at the campground, and no shelter or protection from sun, wind or rain along the hiking trail.
This trail lies within Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park and all park rules and entry fees are applicable here.
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