If you’re looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience, look no further than Lava Tree State Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. This park is home to some of the world’s most unique and awe-inspiring landscapes, including towering lava trees and otherworldly volcanic formations. The numerous trails, overlooks, and other attractions make this a perfect spot for exploring the park’s raw beauty. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about visiting Lava Tree State Park, from directions to tips on what to bring with you!
The History Of Lava Tree State Park
Located just outside Pahoa, Lava Tree State Park is one of the world’s most beautiful and rare parks. It offers spectacular ocean views and an abundance of tropical plants and flowers and provides a unique glimpse into the area’s history. Formed over two centuries ago, in 1790, the creation of this natural wonder is a remarkable story.
Molten lava from Kilauea’s eruption poured forth and engulfed this rainforest with pahoehoe (smooth) lava reaching an astonishing 10 feet deep. The scorching hot flow swiftly surrounded ohia trees in its path, trapping them within a hardened shell as it slowly cooled on the surface while incinerating the inside of each tree. This left behind an unforgettable memorial of these ancient giants.
These lava trees stand today as historical monuments to this incredible event. Lava Tree State Park is a unique experience that enables guests to connect with nature while they learn about this powerful natural phenomenon.
What You Need For Your Trip
When planning a trip to the stunning and serene Lava Tree State Park, you’ll need a few items to ensure your time there is safe and enjoyable. First and foremost, during the rainy season (March-August), you must bring appropriate clothing, such as a rain jacket and rubber-soled shoes, to navigate the trail safely. Additionally, it’s always best to bring plenty of water since dehydration can sneak up quickly on gorgeously sunny days–not to mention all the energy trails like this one require!
Lastly, if you plan on taking photographs of the incredible lava trees or other features, bring a camera with extra batteries and memory cards. The views here are unparalleled, so you won’t want to miss out on getting some great shots!
Things To Do When Visiting Lava Tree State Park
Once you have your gear all packed and ready, your next step is to decide what you want to do while in the park. As mentioned earlier, Lava Tree State Park is full of incredible sights and natural features that you won’t find anywhere else. So here are a few of the different things you can do on your visit:
Walk The Lava Tree Trail
A stroll along the Lava Tree Trail is a unique experience. This trail meanders through some of the most remarkable natural landscapes one can find as visitors traverse lava from the old flow. Along the way, you will observe a variety of flora and fauna endemic to this region, offering insight into the diversity of plants and wildlife that thrive here.
Moreover, no two visits to the tree “where nature writes her own stories” are ever alike —each trip reveals something new regarding the interconnectivity between man and nature. Whether rock formations or lush vegetation catches your eye, embarking on this 0.7-mile loop is sure to provide unique moments worth savoring.