If you want to add a little adventure to your Hawaiian vacation, look no further than Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can hike through lava fields, witness active lava flows, and even take a helicopter tour of the volcanoes. Here’s your guide to visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the most geologically diverse places on Earth. The park area includes two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, as well as the world’s largest volcano, Mauna Kea. In addition, the park consists of various other geological features, such as lava tubes, petroglyphs, and cinder cones.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was established in 1916 to protect these unique geological features. Since then, the park has been expanded several times and now covers an area of almost 320,000 acres. Today, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a popular tourist destination, attracting over two million visitors yearly. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse landscapes through various activities, including hiking, camping, and bird-watching.
Guide To Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
It’s no secret that Hawaii Volcanoes National Park draws in thousands of visitors every year. If you’d like to visit the park, here’s what you need to know:
What To Do When You First Get To The Park
When you enter Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, stop at the Kīlauea Visitor Center to get oriented. Park rangers can give you the latest eruption updates and advise which trails are safe to hike. Next, drive along Crater Rim Drive, a scenic route that takes you past the caldera of Kīlauea volcano.
Make sure to stop at Jaggar Museum to learn about the history of the volcanoes and Halemaʻumaʻu Overlook to see the glowing lava lake up close. Then, if you’re feeling adventurous, consider taking a hike along one of the park’s many trails. Just be sure to check with a ranger first to ensure the trail is safe and free from volcanic activity. By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
The Different Areas Of The Park And What They Have To Offer
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. The park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can see active lava flows, hike through lava tubes, and explore the unique landscapes that volcanic eruptions have created.
The park has two main areas – the summit and the coastal area. The summit region is home to Kilauea Caldera, a massive crater formed by a series of explosive eruptions. The caldera is now home to several craters with unique features. The Halema’uma’u Crater is one of the most popular attractions in the park, and visitors can often see steam rising from its surface.
The coastal area of the park includes the Chain of Craters Road, which winds its way down the coast from Kilauea Caldera to the ocean. Along this road, visitors can see several different lava flows that have created numerous landscapes. However, one of the most popular attractions in this area is the 800-foot lava tube known as Thurston Lava Tube. An ancient lava flow formed this massive tube, which is now home to a colony of bats.
Things To Watch Out For While Hiking In The Park
While Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a fantastic place to explore, there are a few things to keep in mind while hiking. First, the volatile nature of the volcanoes means that the terrain can change quickly and without warning.
Second, while Hawaiian law requires that all hikers carry a flashlight, bringing a headlamp is also a good idea if you find yourself hiking after dark. Finally, pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no water fountains or food vendors in the park. Following these simple guidelines ensures that your visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is safe and enjoyable.
What To Pack For Your Trip
When planning a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, there are a few essential items you will need to pack. First, bring sturdy shoes for exploring the lava fields and hiking the crater trails. Packing a light jacket or sweater can also be helpful, as the temperature inside the crater can be significantly cooler than in the surrounding area.
In addition, be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no food or drink vendors inside the park. Finally, remember to pack your camera – a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is an opportunity to see some truly fantastic scenery.
How To Get Around The Park
The best way to see all that Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers is to take a guided tour. Guided tours leave from both Hilo and Kona, and they typically include transportation to and from the park. Tour guides are familiar with the best places to see the lava flow, spot wildlife, and get an up-close look at the volcanoes. For those who want to explore independently, rental cars are available in Hilo and Kona. However, it is important to note that only certain roads are open to vehicles, and visitors should consult a map before driving into the park.
A shuttle also runs between the Visitor Center and various points of interest within the park. The shuttle is free for people with disabilities and is a great way to avoid traffic and save time. No matter how you choose to get around, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Where To Stay Near The Park
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you’ll need to decide where to stay. Depending on your budget and preferences, there are a few different options available. Several hotels are within the park for those who want to be close to the action. However, these can be pretty expensive. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, several hotels are located just outside the park. This is an excellent option if you want to be close to the park without having to pay for a hotel room inside the park boundaries. Whichever option you choose, make sure to book your room in advance, as hotels in Hawaii tend to fill up quickly.
So Will You Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is an unforgettable experience and should be on everyone’s bucket list. However, with so much to see and do, it can take time to figure out where to start. That’s why we created this comprehensive guide with everything you need to know before your trip.
From what to do when you first get there to the different areas of the park and what they offer, we’ve got you covered. We hope this guide makes planning your trip easier and you have a wonderful time exploring one of America’s most impressive national parks!
