Chain of Craters Road
Paved descent through active volcanic moonscape.
Chain of Craters Road drops you through a lunar landscape where sulfur stench fills the air and steam vents hiss from roadside cracks. This 19-mile paved descent cuts through multiple lava flows from different eruptions, passing the famous Holei Sea Arch before dead-ending where the 1990 lava flow consumed the original road. You’ll witness the raw power of Kilauea as hardened pahoehoe and chunky aa lava stretch to the horizon, with the Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs marking ancient Hawaiian presence among the devastation.
Any vehicle can handle this paved road, but bring water and sun protection for the exposed descent. The route stays open year-round unless active lava threatens the roadway. Park entry fees apply, and rangers sometimes close sections during volcanic activity. No camping along the road itself, but Namakanipaio Campground sits at the park entrance. This drive delivers front-row seats to creation in progress—the kind of geological theater you can’t witness anywhere else on the planet.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Paved |
| Features | Historic, Scenic, Volcanic |
| Length (miles) | 19 mi / 30.6 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4000 ft |
| Best season | Year-round |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Nearest town | Volcano, Hawaii |
| Land manager | National Park Service |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
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Frequently asked questions
Can I drive Chain of Craters Road in a regular car?
Yes, any vehicle can handle this paved road. It's fully accessible to sedans, RVs, and motorcycles.
Is Chain of Craters Road open year-round?
Generally yes, but sections can close without warning due to active volcanic activity or lava flows crossing the road. Check park alerts before heading out.
Do I need a permit to drive Chain of Craters Road?
You need a Hawaii Volcanoes National Park entrance pass ($30 per vehicle for 7 days or $55 for annual park pass). No special permits required for the road itself.
What's the most challenging part of this drive?
The steep 3,700-foot descent with hairpin turns requires careful braking and gear management. Come back up the same way, so consider your vehicle's climbing ability.
Is there cell service on Chain of Craters Road?
Cell service is spotty to nonexistent once you leave the visitor center area. Download offline maps and let someone know your plans before heading down.