Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Located on the island of Hawaii, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit and widely recognized symbol of the United States’ national park system. Visitors to the park can experience the majesty and wonder of Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of the most active volcanoes on Earth. There are a variety of popular guided volcano tours available, or visitors can drive to the park and visit without a guide.

Kilauea Volcano At Volcanoes National Park

The Kilauea volcano is a major draw to the park. Among the world’s most active volcanoes, this one has been erupting nearly nonstop since 1983. Lava flows, steam vents, and volcanic craters may all be seen during a guided tour of the volcano. Beautiful panoramas of the Pacific Ocean and  the island of Maui may be seen from the summit of the volcano. Lava flows from the volcano are breathtaking to watch from the park’s approved observation points. Geothermal energy from the Earth is on full show as red-hot lava flows down the volcano’s slopes.

Image: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Big Island Volcano Tours

Volcano tours are among the most popular Big Island activities. Tours are typically offered in luxury vans, and pick up guests from a variety of locations. Some tours go exclusively to the national park, while other tours stop at other sites along the way. We’ve carefully curated a list of the best Big Island volcano tours, and you can book the tours directly from the tour providers below.

Mauna Loa Volcano At Volcanoes National Park

The park’s namesake volcano, Mauna Loa, is also a must-see. Considered to be among the most active shield volcanoes on the planet, this behemoth sits atop the list of the planet’s largest mountains. Hiking to the top of Mauna Loa is an adventure that will stay with visitors long after they return home. Though the ascent to the peak may take many days, the rewarding vistas are well worth the effort. Sunsets from the peak are also a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for tourists. Mauna Loa’s huge desert landscape is also a must-see for its rare flora and fauna.

Thurston Lava Tubes

The park’s other natural attractions, including as the 500-year-old Thurston Lava Tube, provide visitors with a one-of-a-kind underground adventure. Guests can traverse the tunnel on foot and gaze upon the ancient lava flow that carved it. The tube serves as a visual reminder of the millions of years of volcanic activity that produced the Hawaiian island. Another interesting place to see is the Ka’u Desert, a large desert area teeming with rare flora and fauna. A fascinating area to explore, the desert is known for its extreme conditions and unusual environment.

Hiking Trails

Visitors can experience the park’s varied landscape on one of several hiking trails, ranging in difficulty. Trails can be as simple as strolls through the park or as strenuous as overnight journeys into the wilderness. The Kilauea Iki Trail, which passes through a crater, and the Mauna Loa Trail, which leads to the peak of the volcano, are two of the most well-known routes there. The Kilauea Iki Trail is a moderately difficult four-mile climb that passes through a crater formed by a volcanic explosion in 1959. To get a closer look at the steam vents and volcanic craters, hikers can take use of the trail that the volcano provides. The climb up the Mauna Loa Trail is one of the most challenging hikes in the world. The hike may be difficult, but the sights at the top are worth it.

Additional Information About Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Visitors can learn more about the park’s geology, biodiversity, and cultural history through a number of ranger-led educational and interpretive events, such as hikes, talks, and guided tours. The cultural value of the park to the Hawaiian people, the rare flora and fauna it contains, and the history of the volcano’s eruptions are just some of the things that visitors can find out about. There are opportunities to learn about Hawaiian language and culture, as well as the hula, lei making, and other customs that are unique to Hawaii, at this park.

The Hawaiian nene, a native goose that is extremely rare, can be seen in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, along with many other endemic and native species of birds, plants, and animals. The Hawaiian goose (nene), the Hawaiian petrel, and the Hawaiian hoary bat are just a few of the rare and endangered animals that call this area home. Guests can also view various endemic plant species, like the silversword, which grows exclusively in Hawaii.

Visitors can also learn about the park’s cultural and historical landmarks, such as the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, which keeps tabs on volcanic activity, and the Jaggar Museum, which has displays on the park’s geology, biology, and cultural history. Anyone with even a passing interest in volcanoes should make the trip to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Visitors to the park can learn about the volcano’s history, as well as any current eruptions or seismic activity, at the observatory. Explore the geology, biology, and cultural history of the park in further detail at the Jaggar Museum. The museum highlights the cultural value of the park to the Hawaiian people as well as its unique flora and fauna.

Camping, picnics, and birdwatching are just a few of the recreational opportunities available to park visitors in addition to seeing the area’s cultural and natural landmarks. With its many campsites and picnic spots, this park is perfect for large gatherings. Since the park is home to numerous endemic bird species, birdwatching is another popular pastime there.

Finally, anyone with even a passing interest in volcanoes or the splendor of nature should visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The park’s diverse environment and two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, provide tourists with a memorable and one-of-a-kind adventure. There is something for everyone to enjoy at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife, or culture and history. The park is a one-of-a-kind, multifaceted destination where guests may experience the raw power of nature, learn about Hawaiian heritage, and relax in the great outdoors.

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