Ala Wai'i
Hawai'i Volcanoes Backcountry · Hawaii
Ala Wai'i is one of the permitted entry points in Hawai'i Volcanoes Backcountry on recreation.gov. Permit Ranger watches this pass around the clock and alerts you the moment a sold-out date opens up.
When permits are released
75% of each backcountry site's capacity opens on a rolling 3-month window (published as 90 days), advancing each morning at 7:00 AM Hawai'i time (10:00 AM Pacific during PDT). The remaining 25% is held for in-person walk-up permits 7 days before entry and is never bookable online. Quota applies year-round.
Dogs
Dogs are not allowed in this area.
Popular trails nearby
- Napau Crater via Napau Trail - 4.7 on AllTrails
- Hilina Pali and Halapé - 4.6 on AllTrails
- Ka'aha Trail to Ka'aha Campsite and Hilina Pali Trail Loop - 4.6 on AllTrails
- Apua Point via Puna Kau Trail - 4.5 on AllTrails
- Keauhou Trail - 4.5 on AllTrails
Frequently asked questions
When do Ala Wai'i permits open?
75% of each backcountry site's capacity opens on a rolling 3-month window (published as 90 days), advancing each morning at 7:00 AM Hawai'i time (10:00 AM Pacific during PDT). The remaining 25% is held for in-person walk-up permits 7 days before entry and is never bookable online. Quota applies year-round. Check the recreation.gov page for the exact on-sale details for your dates.
What if my dates are sold out?
Cancellations happen all season as plans change. Add Ala Wai'i to a trip window on Permit Ranger and you get an instant alert the moment a date you need opens back up.
How competitive is Ala Wai'i?
We are still collecting demand data for this pass.
Does Permit Ranger book the permit for me?
No. Permit Ranger never books on your behalf. When a watched date opens, you get an alert with a direct link so you can book it yourself on recreation.gov.
Book on recreation.gov · All Hawai'i Volcanoes Backcountry passes · Hawai'i Volcanoes Backcountry permit guide