Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
State: Hawaii
Size: 335,259 acres
Topography: Volcanic, Rainforest
Peak Season: Year-Round
Nearest Airport: Hilo International Airport (ITO) – 45 min
Nearest Town: Volcano, HI
Top 5 Hikes
Kīlauea Iki Trail
Crater Rim Trail
Devastation Trail
Thurston Lava Tube Trail
Halemaʻumaʻu Trail
Points of Interest
Kīlauea Volcano: One of the world’s most active volcanoes, offering lava viewing opportunities and geothermal landscapes.
Crater Rim Drive: A scenic drive with multiple points of interest, including craters, steam vents, and lava tubes.
Thurston Lava Tube: A tunnel formed by flowing lava, which visitors can explore to experience a unique underground environment.
Mauna Loa: A massive shield volcano offering hiking opportunities and stunning views from its summit.
Recreational Opportunities
Hiking – Explore lava fields, rainforests, and craters on trails like Kīlauea Iki.
Volcano Viewing – Witness active volcanic landscapes, including lava flows (when present).
Scenic Drives – Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road offer stunning views.
Caving – Walk through the Thurston Lava Tube, a massive underground tunnel.
Wildlife Viewing – Spot native birds like the nēnē (Hawaiian goose) and unique flora.
Camping
Nāmakanipaio Campground – Frontcountry, open year-round with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets.
Kīlauea Campground – Frontcountry, open year-round, near the Kīlauea Visitor Center with picnic tables and restrooms.
Backcountry Camping – Permits required for wilderness camping in designated areas.