AMERICA, ONE BEAUTIFUL ROAD AT A TIME

Chain of Craters Road

Hawaii
Take your time. Make a few stops. Enjoy the view.
Coastal-road illustration · An imagined landscape
THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

Descend through a volcanic landscape toward the Pacific, where lava flows reveal different chapters of the island’s geology. Select safe, open overlooks and short walks with current park guidance.

The experienceScenic drive idea
Start with this outlineHawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park · Summit area toward the coast

Regional inspiration: these photographs show the named landscape, nearby place or related outing in their captions. They are not all views directly from this road; side trips may require additional travel.

Fountains of molten lava erupting from within a crater next to a whirlwind formed from the eruption.
Millions of people visit the park to watch volcanic activity from the caldera's edge.
NPS Photo · Public domain, NPS · Photo credits
GIVE YOURSELF TIME TO STOP

Places and landscapes to consider

  • Lava-flow landscapes
  • Coastal views
  • Park viewpoints

Before you drive

Volcanic conditions, air quality and closures can change the plan. Never expect a lava view, and stay out of closed areas.

Make it a satisfying day

Choose a realistic section, then allow time for viewpoints, a town stop and breaks. Scenic mileage rarely tells the whole story of how long an outing will take.

Match the road to your vehicle

Check the exact roads for your car, RV or motorcoach. Tunnel dimensions, turning space, grades and road surfaces can matter as much as distance.

Official route information ↗State road-condition links ↗

Selected scenic-drive outline. Research: October 2026. This is a travel idea, not live navigation or a guarantee that the full route is open. Confirm exact roads, current conditions, parking and any attraction reservations before departure.