Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Adventures

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park spans over 333,000 acres on the island of Hawai’i, encompassing two of the world’s most active volcanoes: Mauna Loa and Kīlauea. The park’s geography features stark volcanic landscapes ranging from barren lava flows to lush rainforests and alpine deserts. It protects a wide variety of ecological zones, home to native plants and endangered species such as the nēnē (Hawaiian goose). Established in 1916, the park conserves significant geological and cultural sites that illustrate centuries of Hawaiian traditions and natural history. Visitors can explore steaming craters, lava tubes, and volcanic vents, while also enjoying native forests and bird-watching opportunities. Popular recreation includes hiking trails that pass through hardened lava flows and tropical environments, scenic drives along crater rims, and ranger-led programs that explain the dynamic volcanic activity and cultural lore. Key landmarks include the Kīlauea Visitor Center, the Jaggar Museum with its views into Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, and the Thurston Lava Tube. The park offers a rare chance to observe volcanic eruptions up close, witness new land being formed, and engage with the natural forces shaping the island. Visitors often stay in nearby communities or camp within the park, taking advantage of interpretive programs and wilderness areas. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park attracts those interested in geology, ecology, and Hawaiian culture, providing a dramatic setting that continually evolves due to active volcanic processes.