Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: The Ultimate Guide

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park holds two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Nestled on the captivating Big Island of Hawaii, this national park is a testament to the raw power of nature and a living testament to the Earth’s ever-evolving landscapes.

With breathtaking vistas, intriguing volcanic formations, lush rainforests, and a deep connection to Hawaiian culture, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers an experience like no other.

Whether you’re an adventurer, nature enthusiast, or someone seeking a deeper connection to the planet’s wonders, join me as we explore what to do when you visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and why it should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was the highlight of my time in Hilo. I spent 6 months in Hilo, working a short-term travel therapy contract, and I visited the park several times during the day and at night. If there’s an active volcano flow, I highly recommend going to the park after dark to see the lava at night.

How Much Time Do You Need To Spend At Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park?

You can see the highlights of the park in a few hours.

If you plan to hike a couple of the trails I mentioned in this post, it may take the better part of a day to complete.

In comparison to some of the other national parks I’ve visited, this park does feel on the small side. If there’s lava flow, there is a pretty dramatic difference between the day and the night views.

Check out the Visitor Center

As you enter Volcanoes National Park, you will quickly pass the visitor center on your right. This is a great first stop to make in the park. You can use the restrooms, explore their shop, and talk to the rangers on duty. You can ask the rangers about the conditions in the park and find out if anything is closed for the day. Trails are frequently closed due to lava flow. The rangers will also let you know the best places and times to view the lava flow that day.

From the visitor center parking lot, you can access the Steam Bluffs and Sulfur Trail, Halema’uma’u Trail, and Crater Rim Trail. These trails are all easy walks through the center of the park.

Walk Through a Lava Tube

Walking through the Thurston Lava Tube is a must-see at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

The Thurston Lava Tube is a once-active lava tube you can walk through. It is on a well-maintained trail, which loops from the road, and is approximately 1.5 miles. The pictures say more than words on this one!

Stand at the Rim of a Volcano Crater

The Kilauea Overlook is a great stop on Crater Rim Drive, where you can see some breathtaking views. I highly recommend this as a stop on your journey through the park. 

Hike Through a Volcano Caldera

You can’t say you visited Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park unless you actually walk through a volcano, right?

The Kilauea Ike trail takes you on an adventure through the rainforest and onto the floor of the Kilauea Ike crater. You can walk to the floor of the crater and return the way you came. Or, you can walk through the entire crater and do a 3.3-mile loop from the parking lot. 

The hike is moderate intensity. If you are physically able to hike, this is the #1 hike that I recommend at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Make sure that you dress appropriately, bring plenty of water, and sunscreen, and wear rain gear if it is forecasted to rain. Also, before you do any trails, check with the rangers first or the park’s website to make sure it’s safe to do in current conditions.

Take a Scenic Drive on the Chain of Craters Road

Chain of Craters Road is a 19-mile road that takes you through the park and to the ocean. Along the way, you pass multiple lookout points, a petroglyph field, fields of lava, and end at a stunning sea arch.

See the Lava Flow at Night (if There’s Active Flow)

Hands down, the most incredible experience at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is to see the lava glowing at night. While it is hard to plan your visit around an active lava flow, it is a treat to be able to see it. You can look at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park website for updates on lava flow or ask the park rangers when you arrive.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Conclusions

Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is an incredible experience. From witnessing the dynamic forces of volcanic activity to exploring lush rainforests. I hope this post inspired you to consider Hawaii Volcanoes National Park as a must-visit destination for your Big Island adventures.