Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Description

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Today Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park displays the results of at least 70 million years of volcanism, migration, and evolution in the Hawaiian Island-Emperor Seamount chain-processes that would thrust a bare land from the sea and clothed it with complex and unique ecosystems and a distinct human culture. Created to preserve the natural setting of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, the park is also a refuge for the island’s native plants and animals and a link to its human past. Park managers and scientists work to protect the resources and promote understanding and appreciation of the park visitors. Research by scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory makes Kīlauea one of the best understood volcanoes in the world, shedding light on the birth of the Hawaiian Islands and the beginnings of planet Earth. Each eruption is a reminder of the power of natural processes to change the air we breath, the ground we walk on, and the sea that surrounds this volcanic island we call home.







Ranger Programs
Ranger-led programs enrich your knowledge of park resources and Hawaiian culture.These free programs may be short presentations in the visitor center auditorium, or a map presentation at the relief map located outside the visitor center on the lanai.


Drive Chain of Craters Road
Chain of Craters Road is an Exceptionally Scenic and Spectacular Drive.Chain of Craters Road (formerly Cockett’s Trail) was dedicated on April 15, 1928. Built at a cost of $148,000, it ended at the rim of Makaopuhi Crater. Chain of Craters Road to the coast (to Kalapana) from Makaopuhi was opened in 1965, and then partly buried in 1969 at the start of the Mauna Ulu eruption. Post Mauna Ulu eruption, Chain of Craters Road was realigned and reopened in June 1979.


Hiking in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
Park trails range in difficulty from easy walks like Kīpukapuaulu (Bird Park) or Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) to longer hikes such as Kīlauea Iki or Mauna Iki. Other trails provide access through wilderness areas and are suitable only for those who are in top physical condition and properly outfitted with winter gear. Most trails are well maintained and easy to follow. Wilderness trails are roughly marked by ahu (cairns – piles of rock). Devastation and Waldron Ledge trails are paved and accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.







Crater Rim Drive
Ranger Dean presents “Life on the Edge” at Jaggar Museum – This program is offered three times daily at 2:00 pm, 3:00 pm & 5:00 pm.Guest speakers offer presentations on a wide range of topics of interest including geology, biology, and Hawaiian culture and history.


Be a Junior Ranger
One is the “Junior Ranger Handbook” for kids 7 to 12 which earns you a badge for Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. It is a great choice for families who will not be able to visit the other National Park units which are located on the west side of Hawai’i Island.


Biking in Hawai‘i
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park offers adventurous bicyclists dramatic views of volcanic landscapes. Pedal through deserts and rain forests, past craters and rift zones. Biking in the park provides exciting opportunities for everyone – old or young, experienced or novice.Protect the fragile lava features, rare plants, and archeological sites. Ride only on designated bike routes.







Campgrounds
Kulanaokuaiki Campground is located about 5 miles down the Hilina Pali Road at 2,700′ elevation. The nine designated campsites at Kulanaokuaiki have picnic tables and tent pads, and are available on a first-come basis.

Operating Hours & Seasons
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is open 24 hours a day year-round, including ALL holidays.

Visit the full website for complete details,www.nps.gov/havo/index.htm