Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park is situated on the southeastern side of the Big Island of Hawai'i and spans a wide range of elevations, from sea level to the summit of Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet. This park is renowned for its volcanic landscapes, dominated by the active Kīlauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. The park's diverse ecology includes rainforests, lava deserts, and coastline, providing habitats for a variety of native species, including the nēnē goose and honu (Hawaiian green sea turtle). Founded in 1916, the park holds significant cultural and historical value, with ancient petroglyphs and sacred sites peppered throughout its boundaries. Visitors can engage in hiking, bird watching, and exploring volcanic craters and lava tubes. Key landmarks include the Kīlauea Caldera, Thurston Lava Tube, and the Chain of Craters Road, attracting geologists and tourists alike.
