Place

Kīlauea Iki Overlook

A volcanic crater at sunrise with trees in the foreground — Kīlauea Iki Overlook at sunrise
NPS Photo/J. Wei

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Parking - Auto, Restroom, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trailhead

Kīlauea Iki crater looks fairly tranquil these days. But, in 1959 it was a seething lava lake, with lava fountains up to 1,900 feet (580m) high. Puʻupuaʻi, the large cinder cone on the left-hand side of the crater, formed as cinders fell from these towering fountains. From this overlook, it is difficult to comprehend the scale of Kīlauea Iki. The crater is a mile long, 3,000 feet (414m) across, and the floor is 400 feet (122m) below. Mauna Loa looms beyond.

Kīlauea Iki Overlook is also the start of the Kīlauea Iki Trail, one of the most popular in the park. Read more about the stunning 1959 eruption.