Welcome
HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
The Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park is one of the few places on the planet where there is a unique opportunity to observe, practically without risk to life, how incandescent lava erupts from the bowels of the earth to the surface. On its territory there is the most majestic volcano on Earth, Mauna Loa, and the most active one - Kilauea, and over 3 million travelers come to see them every year.
The park was founded in Hawaii in 1916. In 1987 it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, but it has been of interest among tourists and scientists since the 19th century.
The Mauna Loa volcano is 13,679 feet high, and Kilauea has never stopped erupting since 1983.
Information
Volcanic activity in the protected area manifests itself in geysers, lava flows and pipes, thermal fields, crater pits, black sand beaches and other phenomena. On its territory, you can see both tropical vegetation and barren deserts, which serve as a habitat for a variety of animals and insects. Including the endangered ones, among which are smiling spiders, biss turtles, carnivorous caterpillars, nene birds. The park has many Aboriginal archaeological sites, from original structures to the rarest concentrations of petroglyphs. But the main interest is, of course, volcanoes.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers a variety of hiking trails that showcase the unique volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and cultural sites of the park. Here are some of the best hiking trails to explore:
Kīlauea Iki Trail:
Distance: 4 miles loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: This iconic trail descends through a lush rainforest to the floor of the Kīlauea Iki Crater, passing steam vents and cinder cones. Hikers can experience the dramatic volcanic landscape and peer into the still-steaming vent at the center of the crater.
Devastation Trail:
Distance: 0.5 miles one way
Difficulty: Easy
Description: A short, paved trail that starts near the Kīlauea Visitor Center. It leads through a stark landscape of cinder and ash left behind by the 1959 eruption of Kīlauea Iki. Interpretive signs along the trail explain the impact of volcanic activity on the environment.
Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) Trail:
Distance: 0.3 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Description: This short, paved trail winds through a lush rainforest to Thurston Lava Tube, a cave formed by ancient lava flows. Hikers can explore the unique geological formation and learn about lava tube formations.
Pu'u Loa Petroglyphs Trail:
Distance: 1.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Description: Located in the park's remote eastern section, this trail leads to Pu'u Loa, a sacred site with over 23,000 petroglyphs carved into the volcanic rock. Hikers can see ancient Hawaiian rock art and learn about its cultural significance.
Mauna Ulu Trail:
Distance: 4.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: This trail starts at the Mauna Ulu parking area and leads through a landscape of lava fields and cinder cones created by the 1969–1974 eruption of Mauna Ulu. It offers views of the dynamic volcanic activity and the chance to walk on relatively young lava flows.
Kīpukapuaulu (Bird Park):
Distance: 1.2 miles loop
Difficulty: Easy
Description: This trail explores a rare "kipuka" or oasis of native Hawaiian plants surrounded by lava flows. It offers a peaceful walk through lush rainforest and provides opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the unique biodiversity of the park.
When hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, it's essential to check current volcanic conditions, weather forecasts, and trail status at the visitor center. Respect cultural sites and fragile ecosystems by staying on designated trails, carrying out all trash, and following Leave No Trace principles.
Official name - HAWAI’’I National Park
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 52
Hawaii National Park, HI 96718
Coordinates: 19°23′N 155°12′W
Established - August 1, 1916
Visitors 1,116,891
Area 323,431 acres
