Hawaii’s Volcano National Park is a true marvel that is a must-see when traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii. Located in the park is Ka Lae, the southernmost area of the United States. Anyone fascinated with volcanoes will enjoy the impressive sites that this 377-square-mile park has to offer.
Volcano House Hotel and Restaurant
Situated in the park, near the Kilauea Caldera and across from the Visitor Center, is a well-known lodge established around 1846. Encircled by tropical forest vegetation, it is the oldest hotel continuously operated in Hawaii. It boasts a 125-year-old fireplace built from lava rock.
Accommodations include guest rooms decorated with furniture made from scarce Koa wood. Or, if you prefer, you can rent a camper cabin from the campground. While the rooms may be essential, the views are worth the money.
Kilauea Visitor Center
It is a good idea to first stop in at the information desk in the Visitor Center for suggestions and information on what to see and do in the park. You can learn about guided tour walks and hikes with the park rangers. During the day, the center regularly shows films regarding the park and its volcanoes.
Helicopter Tours
A helicopter tour over Hawaii Volcano National Park shows a breathtaking view of the volcanoes and the surrounding area. A helicopter tour lets you see areas that would otherwise be unobtainable by land. You will see many examples of volcanic history from the helicopter, from older to recent formations.
Kilauea Caldera
The Kilauea Caldera is located at Kilauea Volcano’s summit, measuring about two miles in width by three miles in length and 400 feet in depth. Inside the caldera is a pit crater named Halemaumau.
Built-up lava by the vent is called Spatter Ramparts, and you can see those that formed beside the crater. Kilauea is considered one of the world’s most active volcanoes. If you visit the park when Kilauea erupts, you may view rivers, spouts, or magnificent spewing lava fountain sprays.
Crater Rim Drive
There is an 11-mile road that you can drive around the Kilauea Caldera named Crater Rim Drive. You will steer through various ecosystems, from fields and tropical rainforest to deserts, encountering craters and steam vents the whole time.
All along the road, there are many stops for taking in scenic viewpoints or short hikes. Visitors can get out and view specific steam vents at specially marked sites, allowing them to experience a steam vent by getting up close and personal with one.
Chain of Craters Road
Indeed, one recommended sight to explore is the Chain of Craters Road, which is about 50 – 60 miles roundtrip. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and some of the best viewing occurs there.
You can travel to see fantastic lava cliffs and where lava has concealed the road. You can view red-hot lava flowing into the sea, hissing as the molten rock meets the cooler water. Most injuries happen in this area when tourists ignore the warning signs posted there, so be sure to heed the warning instructions.
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory
The establishment of this site dates back to 1912., Due to the concentrated monitoring by the seismic recorders and the study done here by the staff, Kilauea is considered one of the most understood volcanoes.
Volcano Art Center and Gallery
The Volcano Art Center occupies the building formerly the Volcano House, constructed circa 1877. It displays many pieces of handiwork from local artists. They are also hosting special events and demonstrations.
Whether you have a few hours or days, a trip to Hawaii’s Volcano National Park is worth the time. The whole family will surely be amazed at the park’s impressive wonders and attractions. There is something of interest for everyone who visits Hawaii’s Volcano National Park.
