Hiking, cycling: Good to go

The hiking trails in Volcanoes National Park could keep a visitor occupied for an entire stay on the Big Island. You’ll marvel at the lava (and sting from the sulfur fumes). See nature takes back its domains after various volcanic eruptions. Dodge steam vents and cracks in the earth. Hike to the ocean and back. Visit sacred Hawaiian sites. Birdwatch and marvel at the sight of plants you couldn’t even dream up.

There are more than 150 miles of trails in the Volcanoes National Park. Some are pleasant for granny and the kids, others require a good bit of physical conditioning and hiking experience. Here’s a sample, with estimates of difficulty.

Earthquake Trail (easy) — Also known as Waldron Ledge. You’ll stroll along the old Crater Rim Drive, which met its match in a 6.6 earthquake in the 1980s. A good hike for those who are timid about walking on a caldera floor, but want to experience it at a safe distance. Wheelchair friendly thanks to the sealed-off asphalt road. A little under a mile, with easy access from the Volcano House hotel.

Pu’u Huluhulu (moderate). A 3-mile hike that’ll take you to the top of Pu’u Huluhulu for one of the best views in the volcano park. You’ll gaze upon Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea and the Pacific. Lava everywhere, watch your step and consider wearing hiking boots. The walk to the summit Mauna Ulu is an optional extension, not recommended for kids. To access the trail, drive to the Mauna Ulu parking area, off the Chain of Craters Road. (Note: This trail is in the park, not the one off Saddle Road.)

Crater Rim Trail (difficult) — The park calls this “an awe inspiring journey through an active volcano” that circles Kilauea’s summit caldera and the Kilauea Iki pit crater. Eleven miles of hiking through various environments to the elevation of 4,000 feet. Be prepared for abrupt weather shifts, high winds and some nasty sulfur fumes. The park warns that asthma sufferers should avoid the gases. Start early, figure six hours and keep your eyes on the sun.

The National Park Service web site offers quick takes on the volcano trails. Alternative Hawaii has a good guide to hiking in the Volcanoes National Park. Instant Hawaii takes detailed looks at the hiking trails.

Cycling near Hilo: On and off road

The east side of the Big Island is teeming with great bike trails. Aggressive mountain bikers, road riders and sightseers all can find a perfect trail somewhere nearby. Bike trails do become quite slippery after rains (meaning most the time), so know your skill level. Always check out a trail with local bike shops (below). Also, see if you can get a copy of the “Mountain Biking the Hawaiian Islands” book.

A trio of trails

The University of Hawaii at Hilo offers a challenging 1km bike trail that accommodates casual bicyclists but still challenges seasoned mountain bike riders. There are two loops, one fast, one somewhat treacherous. Finishing the course in under 6 minutes is considered good. The trail was built by a professor for the purpose of training mountain bikers and other serious riders. Less-experienced bicyclists should do the inner loop (clockwise) when it’s dry. Wild pigs enjoy the trail, too. Access via the upper athletic parking lot, near the softball field. View an interactive UHH bike trail map with video and riders’ comments.

Kulani Trails — The good news is this is a bracing 6-plus-mile ride located in a forest. The bad is you’ll need help. Local knowledge is almost certainly needed to fully appreciate the singletrack trails. Famed for its 4 p.m. Friday rides, in which the local heavies do the trails, no matter the weather. The fire roads are good for beginners. About six miles south of Hilo. Take Highway 11 toward Volcano. Turn right on Stainback highway and go a couple of miles, passing the zoo. Look for the Kunali Forest and Quarry Road sign. Consult local bike shops before hitting the trail.

Tree Planters — A dual track ride that can kill a day. The action is all off-road. Directions are the same as for the Kulani Trails, but instead of turning at the quarry continue 12 miles or so until Road P, take a right.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — All roads are open to bicyclists. The park suggests cyclists start their trip at the Kilauea Visitor Center for the latest on trails and closures. View the volcano park bicycling map.

An outfit called Bikevolcano.com does well-regarded cycling tours of the Kilauea Volcano. (808) 934-9199

Here are two of Hilo’s top bike shops:

Hilo Bike Hub — The bicycle shop of choice for those ready to drop some bucks on a new ride. All repair and upgrade services. The shop features mountain bikes, road bikes, kids bikes and BMX. Good place to go for assembly if you’ve had a bicycle shipped to the island. Repository of local knowledge of trails. 318 East Kawili St. (808) 961-4452.

Da Kine Bike Shop — “New, used and vintage bikes and parts” at this downtown Hilo shop run by Bill Jackson. The logo and web site focus on “recycled bicycles.” The shop also runs bicycle tours of the area, complete with casual catering and a “sag wagon” for extra-weary riders. A rent-to-buy program might make sense for visitors who aren’t in a hurry to leave the island. 18 Furneaux Lane. (808) 934-9861

In Pahoa try the Aikane Bicycle and Sport Shop. (808) 966-6060

Alternative Hawaii has a good guide to cycling in the Volcanoes National Park.