The Sliding Sands Trail, the popular route into the crater, starts from
the parking area at the Observatory. It is constructed along the south
side of the crater to Kapalaoa Cabin six miles away. Connecting trails
go to Paliku Cabin, four miles farther. The Halemauu Trail has two upper
ends, at the 8,000-foot elevation on the highway and on the Hosmer Grove
Campground Spur near Silversword Inn. Halemauu Trail goes down Leleiwi
Pali, the west wall, to Holua Cabin, four miles from the road or six
miles from the lodge. The trail continues easterly from Holua for six
miles along the north side of the crater floor to Paliku. Branch trails
are built to points of interest. The Kaupo Trail through Kaupo Gap
leaves Paliku Cabin and the crater to make a rapid descent of the
southern, sun-drenched slope.