Rock into Volcanoes National Park

Attractions

Rock into Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is on Hawaii Island (the Big Island). At its heart are the Kīlauea and Mauna Loa active volcanoes. The Crater Rim Drive passes steam vents and the Jaggar Museum, which features volcanology exhibits and a viewpoint overlooking Halema'uma'u Crater. Thick ferns mark the entrance to the Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku). The Chain of Craters Road weaves over lava. Trails crisscross the park.

USA // Hawaii sits directly atop a hot spot' far beneath the Earth's crust. It's been active for millions of years, and this park spotlights the fiery landscape that has bubbled up as a result. Hiking trails take you into the thick of the primal terrain, past apocalyptic lava deserts. steaming craters, sulphur smells and ancient petroglyphs pecked into the black flowing rock. But the scene is ever changing, based on the whims of the Madame Pele, the goddess who makes her home in the Kilauea Volcano and who shows off her power at will - most recently in 2018's colossal eruption. Only one thing is for sure in this chaotic, churning place: you should check conditions before visiting!

Is Volcanoes National Park worth it?

In a few words: This is a great place to visit. We saw lava, steam and smoke, went through an old lava vent and hiked a bit. This is a chance to see things you won't see anywhere else in the United States. A once in a lifetime experience.

Why is Volcanoes National Park famous?

Volcanoes National Park is now the main habitat of the mountain gorillas in Rwanda, and the park is mainly known for the gorillas' mountaineering activities. A gorilla trekking permit to Volcanoes National Park costs US$1,500. Gorillas walk in groups and each group has only 8 people.

Can you see lava in Volcano national park?

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has nearly two million visitors a year, all of whom want to see the lava, which means the Jagger Museum is often crowded around sunset. The lava viewing area at Kalapana is only open from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., but Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is open 24 hours a day.

How big is Volcano national park?

About 523 square miles

Established in 1916, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park covers 335,259 hectares, or about 523 square miles (in comparison, the island of Oahu is 597 square miles).

Can I see lava in Hawaii?

You can see Kilauea's swirling "lake" from a viewpoint in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and you can watch its lava tubes drain into the ocean several miles to the southeast. For all these reasons, Kilauea is the park's star attraction. But don't overlook Mauna Loa (also active but currently "resting").