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Hawaii > Big Island > Attractions > Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the most unique park in the US National Parks system. It covers 377 square miles and contains two of the world’s most active volcanoes- Mauna Loa and Kilauea, and also still-steaming sunken crater, pumice pillars and hardened rivers of lava.
Last eruption of Mauna Loa was in 1984. Mauna Kea, which last erupted around 4,500 years ago, is considered "dormant" but will likely erupt again.
Kilauea is the youngest volcano of Hawaii and the most active volcano of the world. Kilauea Caldera has been oozing hot lava continually since 1983. More than 90% of its surface has been covered by lava flows in the past 1,000 years. Very rarely Kilauea erupts in furious spectacular fashion. Usually it oozes very slowly from the caldera towards the sea, that makes watching this spectacular natural phenomen safe enough.
Apart from exploring the lava flow itself, Hawaii Volcano National Park maintains more than 150 miles of trail exploring craters, sea-arches, lava tubes, black beaches and wildlife. Those with a botanical or ornithological bent will enjoy exploring Kipuka Puaulu bird park, one of Hawaii’s richest concentrations of native plants and birdlife.
Those who would like to spend several days at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, can lodge at Volcano House (Crater Rim Dr.). The hotel offers 42 rooms and restaurant.
Location and fees
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on the Big Island of Hawaii. From Hilo: 30 miles southwest on Highway 11; from Kailua-Kona: 96 miles southeast on Highway 11, or 125 miles through Waimea and Hilo via highways 19 and 11.
Entrance to the park (a seven-day permit) is $10.00 per vehicle, $5.00 for pedestrians or bicyclists. An annual pass may be purchased for $20.00 which allows access for 1 full year at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Haleakala National Park (Maui), and Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park.