95 milesFinding Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Hawai’i
Is it worth going to Volcano National Park?
A trip to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is worth the effort it takes to get there. From steaming sulfur banks to a hikeable lava tube and a walk across a still-hardening lava lake, if you can get your family to The Big Island of Hawai’i, you won’t be disappointed by this magnificent volcano national park.
How much time do you need at Volcanoes National Park?
We recommend spending at least one day in the park. That is enough time to see the highlights, especially after the closures due to the recent volcanic activity in 2018. The volcanoes in Hawaii are a rare treat to explore as the landscape is ever-changing and is home to seven of the world’s thirteen climates.
Can you drive the volcano in Kona?
The two main roads visitors will travel are Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road. All roads in the park are two-wheel drive roadways and do not require four-wheel drive vehicles. Start your visit at the Kīlauea Visitor Center located just beyond the park’s entrance station on the right.
What is there to do at Kona Volcano National Park?
Best things to do on a drive from Kona to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Captain Cook Monument Trail hike.
- Kealakekua Bay snorkeling.
- Two Step Beach aka Honaunau Bay.
- Pohue Bay beach hike.
- Papakolea green sand beach hike.
- Punaluu black sand beach with a chance to see turtles.
What is the best time to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
The best time to observe the glow from Halema’uma’u is before sunrise, or after 9 p.m., when most visitors have left. The park is open 24 hours a day.
Is there lava at Volcano National Park?
Lava is currently visible from many areas and overlooks surrounding Kaluapele (Kīlauea caldera) within the national park. Viewing conditions can change at any time depending on eruptive activity and weather conditions such as fog or rain.
Is it better to stay in Kona or Hilo?
Kona, not Hilo, is the place to stay on the island of Hawaii during your vacation. Kona offers better weather, the best beaches and snorkeling, newer resorts, more vacation rentals, and more nightlife compared to Hilo Town. Hilo is worth a visit but may not be worth staying for more than a night.
What should I wear to Hawaii Volcano National Park?
Bring a rain jacket, wear long pants and closed-toe shoes.
How long does it take to drive Chain of Craters Road?
There are also spots where you can distinctly see the different paths of lava flows, along with the different types of lava flows. What is this? To drive this road out and back without stopping might take around 45 minutes, but it’s better to allow for at least 1.5-2 hours for stops!
Can you tour volcano national park on your own?
Visitors are able to access all the same places as the tour operators. The parks is exceptionally laid out with clear paths and roads to all the best volcanic features. There are free tours offered daily by park staff that are experts in volcanoes and the park terrain.
Why is Crater Rim Drive closed?
Layers of explosive deposits erupted from Kīlauea Volcano in 17th and 18th centuries are visible in a road cut just beyond the gate at Keanakāko’i Crater. This section of Crater Rim Drive has been closed since 2008, when the still-erupting vent within Halema’uma’u Crater (middle, far right) first opened. USGS photo.
Can you visit volcanoes in Hawaii without a tour?
No visit to Hawaii is complete without a stop at Kilauea. The world’s most active volcano never fails to put on a show, and if you’re looking to learn more about volcanoes and what causes them, Kilauea is the best place to go.
How crowded is Volcano National Park?
The visitation numbers were down in 2020 due to the pandemic, but for the last 50 years running, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has consistently drawn 1-2 million visitors a year. So, do plan your visit, but plan it wisely, knowing that crowds are to be expected.
Does it get cold at Volcanoes National Park?
Temperature varies by elevation. At the Kīlauea summit, temperatures may be 12 to 15 degrees cooler than at sea level. The coastal plain at the end of Chain of Craters Road is often hot, dry, and windy. At the nearly 14,000-foot summit of Mauna Loa, winter temperatures and snow are a possibility during any season.
What is special about Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, established in 1916, shows the sheer power of volcanoes ability to shape and re-shape our land. These processes rewrite the shape of the land. Coupled with the special human history and rare ecosystems found here, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a special place in America to be sure.
Why should people visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
In addition to Mauna Loa, the park includes Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano, which offers scientists insights on the birth of the Hawaiian Islands and visitors views of dramatic volcanic landscapes. Over half of the park is designated wilderness and provides unusual hiking and camping opportunities.
Why should I go to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park boasts a rich history full of ancient Hawaiian lore, archaeological artifacts, and captivating stories. If you’re a history buff with a love of the great outdoors, a visit to the park is a must! At the park, you’ll find the Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs.
Is it worth it to stay in volcano Hawaii?
If you’re a nature junkie, a stay in Volcano Village is well worth the trip. If you’re more inclined to relax by the pool, enjoy fine dining, and get a luxurious spa treatment during your time in Hawaii, this isn’t the place for you.
Can you tour Volcano National Park on your own?
Visitors are able to access all the same places as the tour operators. The parks is exceptionally laid out with clear paths and roads to all the best volcanic features. There are free tours offered daily by park staff that are experts in volcanoes and the park terrain.
How long does the Crater Rim Drive tour take?
90 minutes to two hours
moderate and challenging lava viewing conditions. This 38-mile (61 km) round-trip drive descends 3,700 feet (1,128 m) to the coast and ends where lava has covered 10 miles of road since 1986. Allow 90 minutes to two hours round-trip, depending on how often you stop and how far you hike.
What should I wear to volcano national park?
Bring a rain jacket, wear long pants and closed-toe shoes.