Pu'u Loa Petroglyphs | Volcanoes National Park

The Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs trail in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is a short, family-friendly hike that leads to one of the largest collections of ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs. This sacred site holds over 23,000 carvings etched into hardened lava, offering a powerful glimpse into the cultural history and traditions of the Native Hawaiian people. Walking here feels like stepping back in time, as you follow the same rugged landscape once traveled by generations past.

The hike is 1.4 miles round trip across rocky terrain, so be prepared for uneven footing and bring sturdy shoes. Along the way, follow the ahu (rock piles) that guide you to the end of the trail, where a raised boardwalk allows you to safely view the petroglyphs without disturbing the fragile site. Please be respectful—stay on the boardwalk and remember this is a sacred place.

We found this hike to be a perfect balance of adventure and culture. It’s short enough to be family-friendly (plan about 20 minutes each way if you’re hiking with little ones), but meaningful enough to leave a lasting impression. The Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs are truly one of the must-see stops in Volcanoes National Park.

Distance: 1.4 miles round trip