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Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park adventures

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park Adventures

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, located on the Big Island of Hawai'i, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore active volcanic environments and lush tropical ecosystems.

323,431
Acres Protected
150
Miles of Trails
1,116,891
Annual Visitors
1916
Year Established

About Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park
 

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.

Highlights

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Kīlauea Caldera

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Thurston Lava Tube

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Chain of Craters Road

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Halema'uma'u Crater

Notable Natural Features

Kīlauea Caldera

A vast, active volcanic crater that has been in almost constant eruption since 1983 until recently.

Halema'uma'u Crater

Located within Kīlauea Caldera, this crater is a culturally sacred site for Native Hawaiians.

Thurston Lava Tube

A natural cave formed by flowing lava, accessible via a short hiking trail.