Volcano National Park
Hikes, sights, and lava!
Directions Maps, and Info
Overview
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is one of the most awe-inspiring destinations on the Big Island, home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most famous volcanoes. Spanning over 500 square miles, the park offers an incredible mix of lava fields, lush rainforests, steaming craters, and ancient petroglyphs.
Visitors can experience active volcanic landscapes, hike through lava tubes, and explore the unique geological and cultural history of the Hawaiian Islands. Whether you’re looking for a scenic drive or a backcountry adventure, this national park is a must-visit.
Highlights
🌋 Active Volcano
🥾 Hiking & Trails
🚗 Scenic Drive
📸 Photography Spot
🌿 Unique Ecosystem
Parking and Access
The main entrance to the park is off Highway 11, about 30 miles southwest of Hilo. There is ample parking at the Kīlauea Visitor Center, where you can get trail maps, park information, and updates on volcanic activity.
Certain areas may be closed due to volcanic conditions, so check the official park website for real-time updates before visiting.
Key Details
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening for cooler temperatures and potential lava glow views
Duration: Half-day to multiple days, depending on how much you explore
Suitable For: Hikers, photographers, geology enthusiasts, and families
Cost: $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
What to Bring
Comfortable hiking shoes – Trails vary from paved walkways to rough lava rock.
Rain jacket – The park can be rainy, especially near Kīlauea.
Plenty of water – Some trails are exposed, and dehydration can be a risk.
Flashlight or headlamp – If exploring lava tubes or staying after dark for lava viewing.
Binoculars – Helpful for spotting distant volcanic activity or wildlife.
Snacks and food – Limited options inside the park, so bring your own.
What to Expect
Kīlauea Caldera and Halema‘uma‘u Crater
One of the park’s main highlights, this massive crater is home to ongoing volcanic activity. Depending on conditions, you may see lava, steam vents, or glowing lava flows after dark.
Chain of Craters Road
This scenic drive descends toward the coastline, passing lava fields, craters, and stunning ocean views. The road ends where lava flows have covered it.
Thurston Lava Tube
A short hike leads to this massive underground lava tunnel, where visitors can walk through a cavern created by ancient flowing lava.
Devastation Trail
An easy, paved trail that winds through a landscape destroyed by a 1959 eruption, showing the stark contrast between new and old growth.
Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs
A cultural site featuring thousands of ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs carved into hardened lava rock.
Wildlife and Plant Life
The park is home to native Hawaiian birds, tree ferns, and rare plants that thrive in the volcanic ecosystem.
Tips & Info
Check for volcanic activity updates
Some trails or roads may close due to eruptions, earthquakes, or hazardous gas emissions.
Stay on marked trails
Lava rock can be sharp and unstable, and hidden dangers exist off-trail.
Prepare for varying weather
The park’s elevation ranges from sea level to over 13,000 feet, leading to rapid weather changes.
Be cautious around steam vents
These openings release extremely hot air and gases that can be dangerous.
Respect the land
Hawaiian volcanoes are sacred to Native Hawaiians—avoid taking lava rocks and be mindful of cultural sites.
Bottom Line
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park offers an unforgettable look at the raw power of nature. With its steaming craters, lava tubes, scenic drives, and unique landscapes, this park is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Big Island. Whether you’re hiking through ancient lava flows or witnessing an active eruption, this is one of the most exciting places in the world to experience a living volcano.