can i visit volcano national park

Tips for visiting Volcanoes National Park

My wife and I are old enough to easily remember the 1959 release of the movie "Journey to the Center of the Earth." Based on a Jules Verne novel, it was the fictional tale of four adventurers who went into the bowels of the earth to find its center. While such a fantasy belongs solely in the realm of our imagination, the idea of seeing and experiencing some of this volatile subterranean furnace is intriguing, to say the least.

That's why Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was on our must-see list as we navigated through the Hawaiian Islands on our first visit to the Rainbow State . We considered this national park to be like an interactive peek to another world below: our own journey to see what flows from the center of the earth.

Volcanoes National Park basics

While the National Park Service is technically in charge of Volcanoes National Park, Pele, the legendary Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes and fire, has the first and last word on all activities there. If the old Yankee Stadium was "the house that Ruth built," then Volcanoes National Park -- and, in fact, the entire island of the Big Island of Hawaii -- is surely the land that Pele built. Pele, "she who shapes the sacred land," supposedly lives in the Halema'uma'u Crater within the park.

Related: Points and miles guide to visiting Hawaii

How to get there

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is in the southeast corner of the Big Island of Hawaii and occupies about 12% of the island's land mass. Highways circle the perimeter of the island, so there is easy access to the park from the major airports at Kona and Hilo. Many tourists drive a rental car to the park, but you can also go as part of a group tour. Look for tour operators at Viator.com , or search Google for "Hilo" and "Volcanoes National Park" and you'll find options from companies like Roberts Hawaii and others.

When is the park open?

The park is open 24 hours a day, with its busiest time being between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Despite the 500 square miles of park space, our observation is that most visitors stay within a few miles of the park entrance.

How much does it cost?

Entrance to the park costs $25 per noncommercial vehicle. This fee is good for seven days and covers all the occupants in the vehicle. Individuals that come by bus, bike, motorcycle or on foot will pay fee of $12, which also covers seven days. Of course, national park passes are valid and welcome. Our lifetime senior citizen national parks pass worked perfectly for our group of five.

What's the park like?

Since the Big Island first poked its head above the blue Pacific waters some 500,000 years ago, volcanoes have shaped and molded the diverse topographical and environmental landscape of the island on an almost continual basis. Elevation changes from sea level to 13,500 feet have transformed the island into a climatic and vegetative cornucopia, with landscapes ranging from almost desert dry to rainforest to arctic in a span of less than 50 miles.

Upon arriving, your first stop will undoubtedly be the visitor center where, depending on your time and level of interest and curiosity, you can get either Volcanoes National Park 101 or glean enough information for a thesis toward a master's degree in volcanology. The center is well staffed with park rangers and well supplied with park souvenirs and basic provisions for your visit. You can also learn about the ranger-led walks and talks that happen several times a day and that go to multiple destinations.

The Volcano House awaits you about 100 yards from the visitor center. Virtually the entire south side of the building is glass to allow your first view of the Kilauea Caldera and the Halema'uma'u Crater. Head through the door to the viewing platform to get an even better look at one of the main reasons you came to the park.

Impact of the 2018 Kilauea eruption

Kilauea, the most active volcano on the planet, had been alive and erupting almost nonstop since 1983. But in May of 2018, a series of earthquakes preceded a new and more vigorous lava flow that created fissures through which gushed rivers of 2,000-degree lava, which made its way relentlessly down the shield volcano and toward the sea. More than 700 houses were lost in neighborhoods that were in its path and Volcanoes National Park was closed for months due to the dangers and damage.

The consistent volume of lava flowing would have filled 40,000 dump trucks per hour. The total amount of lava released would fill about 300,000 Olympic swimming pools and cover the entire island of Manhattan with 27 feet of lava. An additional 875 acres of new land was created by the lava as it interacted with the ocean waters. The Halema'uma'u Crater has almost doubled its size since May of 2018, and has gotten about 1,500 feet deeper.

Damage to the infrastructure of the park has resulted in both short term and long-term closures. The Jaggar Museum and crater lookout was the most popular attraction in VNP, and it was damaged significantly by last year's activity. The ledge that it sits on has now been declared unsteady and it is highly likely the site will never reopen. The Thurston Lava Tube has been closed to the public for the past 16 months, but progress is being made toward its reopening later this year. (A lava tube is like a self-created subway tunnel for lava.) The highly traveled Crater Rim Trail and Crater Rim Drive are both only partially available to the public at this time.

Another significant post-2018 eruption development is that Kilauea is now sleeping. After 38 straight years of lava flowing and lava glowing, right now there is nada lava. No flow, no glow.

The lava lake in the Halema'uma'u Crater has been replaced for the first time in known history with water. Experts are a little wary of this new situation, as they are concerned that when Pele turns the hot lava faucet back on, that mixture of lava and water could lend itself to a more explosive reaction.

Things to do at Volcanoes National Park

To appreciate and experience the offerings of the park, we visited the steam vents, drove the Chain of Craters Road and hiked the Devastation and Halema'uma'u Crater trails.

The 38-mile round-trip Chain of Craters Road is like a geological history map of recent and long-ago volcanic activity. The road follows and bisects several massive lava flow fields that stretch for miles until they disappear into the ocean's edge.

The road has a significant elevation drop of 3,700 feet, and it is therefore easy to figure out which way the lava is wont to go. We found unexpected beauty on our excursions onto the lava beds in the color variance of the lava itself, the artistic qualities of the random flow patterns and in the vegetation now calling the lava home.

Following the road to its conclusion will lead you past the petroglyph fields to the Holei Sea Arch.

Just a short drive from the Visitor Center on the part of the Crater Rim Drive that is open, you will find Devastation Trail. This short hike gives you a graphic illustration of the dramatic environmental changes associated with this volatile area. A dense rainforest occupied this landscape prior to a 1959 eruption that left the area burned, barren and covered in a lava/cinder mix. As time has passed, nature has started its never-ending cycle to reclaim what was lost. Life is returning and, given enough time, will surely recreate its former self until ... it starts all over again.

The Halema'uma'u Trail is another interesting, moderate hike that quickly takes you through some of the extremely diverse vegetative zones seen in this national park. The walk starts near the Volcano House and descends through an almost jungle environment that is wet, warm and very conducive to prolific plant growth. The forest trail is closely lined and canopied by huge healthy ferns and native trees and plants.

The hike takes you down about 500 feet in less than a mile as you essentially go down the sidewalls of the Kilauea Crater until you reach its caldera. Goodbye greenhouse, hello Mars.

The hike used to continue to near the edge of the Halema'uma'u Crater, but the recent volcanic activity has restricted this access.

After the immersion in the contrasting temperature, exposure and landscape at the crater, you return up the tropical hillside. Our party of four ranged from a 4-year-old to a 70-year-old and all made the trek OK. A few strategic resting stops await those wishing for a quick break to either catch a breath or to linger a moment longer to absorb the surroundings.

Where to stay at Volcanoes National Park

Lodging in the park is limited. The historic Volcano House has 33 guest rooms and sits adjacent to Halema'uma'u Crater on the Kilauea Caldera. Rates vary depending on date and type of accommodation, but average in the $250 to $350 per night range.

Ten rustic (read: basic) camper cabins are located nearby in the Namakanipaio Campground for $80 a night. Our one overnight stay was in one of these cabins. It proved to be quite adequate and a nice balance to the nicer resorts and hotels we experienced on the rest of our trip.

A limited number of campsites are also available in the park for $15 each. Additional lodging can be found 10 minutes away by car in Volcano Village, or 30 miles away in Hilo, where a wide array of options are located, such as the Hilton Naniloa in Hilo where we stayed using Hilton points the night after we finished exploring Volcanos National Park.

Where to eat

Pick up some fresh pastries at Punalu'u Bake Shop on your way into the park (if coming from the Kona side) and save those for snacks as there aren't a ton of dining options within the park. Volcano House does serve sit-down meals, but it can take a while and the cost of sit-down meals adds up.

There are a few other restaurants in the immediate vicinity, such as the Lava Rock Cafe, where we enjoyed chili and stir-fry one night, as well as a well-reviewed Tuk Tuk Thai Food Truck we missed on this trip.

Surprises within the park

One of the bigger surprises that we learned was that the park is the 15th most-visited national park, with about 2.5 million annual visitors. We were amazed at this statistic because you do not just casually drop by the park to check out the lava. It is not like being at the Grand Canyon in Arizona when, on a spontaneous whim, you decide to head north to Utah to scout out the hoodoos in Bryce or The Narrows in Zion -- this one is over 2,300 miles of ocean away.

One jaw-dropping and smile-inducing experience we shared in the park was the perceived closeness and intensity of the stars. The Big Dipper was directly overhead, but its name truly did not do it justice. Maybe the Extra Large, Bigger, Badder, Bolder, Brighter Dipper would have been more appropriate. Each of the seven stars shined so brightly and so clearly that the stellar array seemed to be sitting just above the treetops. It was as if 5 watt bulbs had been replaced by 100 watters. We wished the opportunity to view the stars atop the nearby 13,500 foot Mauna Kea had presented itself on this trip. Mauna Kea is recognized as the top astronomical observation area in the Northern Hemisphere due to its elevation, clean air, cloud-free skies and dark nights. Next time, for sure.

Bottom line

We hope to return to Volcanoes National Park someday. We really want to see those stars again and hope to see the lava lake in the Halema'uma'u Crater glowing like a cauldron with orangish-red lava streams flowing gently (and safely) to the sea. Pele, are you listening?

The Ultimate Guide to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island

Heading to the big island and hope to see real lava on your hawaiian vacation scroll to find out everything you you need to know in this guide to hawaii volcanoes national park, the only unesco world heritage site in hawaii., this guide to hawaii volcanoes national park was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Believe it or not, the island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island is a new island and is constantly growing. The growth is all due to the hot spot that has continuously spewed lava into the ocean.

It’s also one of the few places in the world where regular people can hike to the active lava spots and get amazing photographs of the lava flowing into the ocean.

But the lava isn’t the only thing you can do here at Big Island Volcano Park. There are tons of things to do in Volcanoes National Park if you have the time.

So How much time do you need at Volcano National Park? There is no easy answer to this question. It all depends on how much time you have.

There are several activities you can do that allow you to get a brief glimpse of what the park has. Or, you can spend days exploring every inch of the Hawaii National Volcano Park.

So, whether you are doing a day trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or are planning on spending several days there, this Volcanoes National Park guide has you covered!

First trip to the Big Island ? Read THIS first!

Don’t have time to read many Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting the Big Island.

Popular Big Island Tours/Activities

• Manta Ray Snorkeling Tour (you can ONLY do this on the Big Island)
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour (this is the BEST way to see lava if you aren’t renting a car)
• Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour (this is a cool adventure for teens and adults)
• Swim with Dolphins (this is a unique experience for kids of all ages and adults)
• Kona ATV Tour (we love this one because they also do cultural activities)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Big Island Resorts/Hotels

• Hilton Waikoloa Village (this is a mega resort where you can swim with dolphins or just enjoy their massive pool area)
• Courtyard by Marriott’s King Kamehameha Beach Hotel (this is a moderately-priced Kona hotel right on a little lagoon)
• Fairmont Orchid (this is a swanky resort with an awesome pool area and beach)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii? One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary, complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

The Ultimate Guide to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Here is your Volcano National Park guide to learn all there is to see and do here along with how to get to Volcano National Park.

Where is Volcano National Park located?

Before you can start planning on what to see and do at the park, you need to know where to go. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on the south side of the Big Island between Hilo and Kona .

Starting in Kona — Fastest Way

If you are starting out on the Kona side of the island, or the “dry” side, you will have to take Highway 11. Start by going southeast, you’ll cut through Kealakekua, Captain Cook, South Point, Na’alehu, and Pahala.

Don’t just drive through these areas, there are tons of things to see. You can stop and enjoy the black sand beach that is located on the Ka’u Coast. Look for signs for Punalu’u.

Have a picnic and enjoy the basking turtles for a bit before heading back on the road.

Then you can simply continue driving around Highway 11 until you reach the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

In total, the drive from Kona to Volcano National Park is about 2 and a half hours and is 96 miles if you are going to the park from the Kona side of the island. This is of course taking the shortest route.

Starting in Kona — Alternative Route

Another option is to start from Kona and go through to Waikoloa. From Waikoloa, you’ll head up to Waimea. You can take the ‘shortcut’ through the dormant volcanoes of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea on “Saddle Road.”

Saddle Road isn’t as bad as it once was. It used to have blind turns and very windy roads with limited visibility.

But over the years, the state has made improvements to the road, and it’s an easy smooth drive to get to the Hilo side of the island.

If you take this route, you’ll be amazed by old Lehua forests and see just how massive Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea are.

This route will take about 2 and a half hours to get to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It doesn’t have a view of the coast, but the view is still pretty awesome cutting through the sleeping volcanoes.

Starting in Kona — Alternative Route 2

Or, you can go from Waikoloa to Waimea and continue around through Laupāhoehoe, and see the stunning coastline with this route.

If you take this route, don’t forget to take a detour to Waipio Valley lookout in Honoka’a. There you will see an amazing view of a black sand beach and glorious valleys.

It was here that Water World was filmed for the land scenes.

Word of caution though, don’t try to go down to the beach. Just enjoy the lookout.

The hike down is easy and you may think you have the time to go down and back up. But the climb back up is what will take the most time.

The road is super steep and it switches back again and again. It takes ten minutes to climb down, but at least 35 to get back up. It is not an easy climb to the top. However, you can do the Waipio Valley Shuttle tour , which is awesome!

But, if you want to hike, then jump back in your car and cruise to Laupāhoehoe where you’ll find the Akaka Falls .

Here you’ll hike through the rainforest and find a spectacular waterfall. The path to the waterfall is easy and maintained. It takes about 20 minutes for a round-trip hike to see the falls.

Cutting through Hilo or Starting in Hilo

Once your legs are stretched, continue on Highway 19 and connect with Highway 11. You’ll be cutting through Hilo on this route and get to see the Banyan trees on the main strip, and also Hilo bay.

This route will take you around 2.5 to 4 hours depending on if you stop to hike, or if you stop at each point before getting to the Volcano National Park.

However, if you are staying in Hilo , you’ll find the park is a mere 30 miles southwest. Simply drive for 45 minutes through Hilo and you’ll come across the park.

Cost of Admission to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Unfortunately, there is a cost to get into the park, but at least it isn’t too bad. Since 1987, the park has charged per vehicle. For cars, there is a $30 entrance fee. For motorcycles, it is $25.

But, there are so many things to see and do here with the Hawaiian volcanoes, that the price is well worth it.

Best Things to Do at Big Island Volcano National Park

When you first drive through the entrance of the Hawaii Volcano National Park, you may find yourself on a foreign planet. At least, that will be what it seems like.

The vast dark ragged and rugged landscape makes it look like you are someplace other than Earth. And you may wonder what all you can do here at the park.

Well, there are tons of things for you to see and do at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You’ll first want to get an idea of what is around you. Stopping at the kīlauea visitor center should be your first priority.

It is here that you’ll learn about the different types of lava flows. You will also get to see the different advancements scientists are making to explore and better understand lava and the earth’s core. They have all the Hawaii Volcano National Park facts.

Once you roam around the museum and snag a map of the park, you might want to jump right into actually seeing lava flow out into the ocean. The thing is though you are still a ways away from the shore.

In fact, it will take about 45 minutes to travel down the road to get to the place where you can park and then another 30-minute hike to the coastline over frozen lava fields.

So, you might want to wait and do this last for 2 reasons.

First, there is a lot to see and do between the visitor center and the shoreline. Just making a beeline to the flowing lava will have you missing out on some amazing sites.

Second, viewing the lava lake at dusk is far more stunning than watching it during daylight hours. Normally the glowing light is visible during the day. To get that remarkable and unforgettable view, wait till dusk.

Thurston Lava Tube

The Thurston Lava Tube is one of the more popular sights to see at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

It is a spot where lava passed through clean leaving an open area for you to walk through. It’s basically a cave that anyone can walk through. The ground is flat, and it goes on a short distance and is a must-see.

Crater Rim Road

The Crater Rim is the fastest and easiest way to see a lot in a short amount of time. Of course, short is relative seeing as there are so many spots to stop and take in the view, have a picnic, or just relax and enjoy nature.

But if you are on a time limit, then doing the Crater Rim Drive or the Crater Rim Trail will give you the most photo opportunities for your time.

First, you’ll start out at the visitor’s center and drive around to the Steam vents. There you will also be able to take in the Steaming Bluff and Ha’akulamanu.

Just be wary of the stench around the Ha’akulamanu sulphur banks trail.

The steam vents and bluff are around the Sulphur Banks area which means that the air quality will be poor and will stink of rotten eggs because that is what sulfur smells like.

Once you get your pictures, continue on the drive and stop off at the Kilauea Iki Overlook. The view here is fantastic and wonderful. There are plenty of places on the side of the road to stop for a picnic or enjoy the scenery.

Then it’s off to the Pu’u Pua’i Overlook where you can see even more awesomeness of how lava can transform and create new land.

Once you have seen the valley area, you can head towards the “Devastation Trail” and stretch your legs on a small hike.

The Devastation Trail makes it seem like you are on the moon or even Mars. There are no trees or anything around and looks just as it sounds. Barren and devoid of life.

Finally, the Crater Rim Drive will take you to Keanakako’i Crater. Once you have got your fill of the Crater Rim, you can start the long drive down the Chain of Craters Road.

Here you will find lots to see, from old lava rivers that are dated along the road to views of the Pacific Ocean.

The Chain of Craters Road will bring you down the slopes of Kilauea towards the ocean. Here you can check out the Holei Sea Arch at the end of the road. It is here that you really understand and see that the Big Island is a new island and growing.

Hiking Trails in National Volcano Park

There are tons of hikes to enjoy while visiting Kilauea volcano. Some are short and others take longer.

The Kilauea Iki Crater hike is about 2 to 3 hours and is quite popular. The Kilauea Iki Crater trail can be challenging, so it’s probably not the one you want to do with kids.

The Crater Rim Trail, sulphur banks, the Kilauea Caldera hike, and Kīpukapuaulu are other fun hikes to see more parts of this large park.

Volcano Art Center Gallery

If you want to explore some of the most gorgeous art of the hot lava and volcanoes, check out the Volcano Art Center gallery while you are at the park.

You can also explore more at Volcano Village as well.

Special Ranger Programs at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

There are some really cool programs at this Hawaii National Park that are offered throughout the year.

On select Tuesdays, head to the Kilauea Visitor Center for After Dark In The Park for special presentations by leading scientists, artists, and cultural experts on park-related topics.

Join Hawaiian practitioners as they share the arts and culture of Hawaiʻi with demonstrations and hands-on activities during ʻIke Hana Noʻeau (which translates to “Experience the skillful work”.)

Grab tickets for a small, underground laboratory where you’ll experience A Walk Into The Past – A Living History.

This is where a living history presenter dressed in period costume brings back to life Thomas A. Jaggar, founder of Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.

Find out which programs are happening during your trip

Camping at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a lot bigger than what people think. You can spend days here and still not see everything. That is why the park offers people the ability to camp in the park.

Granted, you’ll have to get a pass and talk to the rangers at the visitor center to know what part of the park is closed off to campers and hikers.

But if you have time to kill, camping at Volcano National Park and exploring the park as the Hawaiians once did make it a memorable experience for sure. It is the best way to see Volcano National Park.

As for hiking, there are tons of trails you can go on. Each trail is different and some are harder than others.

There is one trail that takes you over the crater and takes several hours to complete or one that brings you through a rain forest where you can search for the Hawaii State bird, the Nene Goose. It all depends on your level of exercise.

Just be sure to bring plenty of food and water while experiencing the park.

Find out more about Camping in Hawaii

What to Bring to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

When viewing the lava at Halema’uma’u Crater on the slopes of Kilauea, there are a few things you need to do it safely. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes . Lava is unforgiving and one slip or stumble and the lava rocks will cut into you very easily.

You should also have with you plenty of water . There are so many people who get lost on the trail coming back to their car and are without water that it is scary. So just make sure you have water with you at all times.

A flashlight is a must if you are going to see the lava at dusk. You’ll lose track of time down there watching the lava spewing into the ocean and you’ll need a light to find the trail to get back to the car. Find the best prices here.

Flashlights are inexpensive and can save your life out there.

Far too many people get turned around in the open lava field and lose track of where they are going without a light.

Many wonder what to wear to Hawaii Volcano National Park and I always say you’ll need a good jacket or wind breaker . The temperature drops at night in the park. It also has a tendency to rain in the evening in Hilo. Check out the latest prices and more details.

Granted, Hawaii temperature doesn’t drop like you would see in the deserts of say Arizona, but it does get chilly. It can even drop down to the high 40s or low 50s. In this case, it can be quite cold and damp. So bring a jacket while visiting the park.

Where to Stay Near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

If you think you’ll want to spend more than one day exploring this Hawaii National Park, you might consider staying nearby. There is one hotel, many vacation rental homes, and even cool Hawaii treehouses worth a stay.

Volcano House

If you want to stay in a Hawaii Volcanoes National Park hotel, Volcano House is the only hotel located within the park. It first opened in 1846 and sits on the rim of Kilauea’s Halemaumau crater. Read my full review HERE .

People come from all over the world to experience its iconic location, rich cultural legacy, and warm Hawaiian hospitality. If you are planning a Volcanoes National Park vacation, you’ll definitely want to stay at the Volcano House Hotel. Check out the latest prices and more details .

Lava Lodge at Volcano Village

Just one mile from the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is Volcano Village, in the old Ohi’a lush rainforest. You can easily walk to popular Volcano restaurants and shops. Check out the latest prices and more details .

Treehouse Cottage at Kilauea Volcano

For a really epic experience, stay at a real treehouse cottage near Kilauea. This VRBO is just a few minutes from the main gates to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Check out the latest prices and more details.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 1987, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. That’s because it’s home to Mauna Loa and Kilauea, two of the world’s most active volcanoes that are accessible.

It’s a great place to witness geological processes.

In fact, if you measure Mauna Loa from the ocean floor, it’s the greatest volcanic mass on Earth!

Best Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tours

For your Hawaii volcanoes trip, you might want a guide and go on a tour to see the active volcano and everything else in the park.

Here are some of the best Hawaii volcano tours to try:

Volcano Unveiled

One of the best volcano tours on the Big Island is run by Hawaii Forest & Trail, which is certified by the Hawaii Ecotourism Association.

Volcano Unveiled is a 12-hour tour that includes a 2-3 mile hike to see Kilauea volcano. You’ll also head to Kauhi Cave, a private lava tube and cavern that’s only available through this tour. Check out the latest prices and more details.

Along the way, your guide will explain more about Hawaii’s geology, culture, and history.

Get your Volcano Unveiled tour tickets

Hawaii Grand Circle Island Volcano Tour

Roberts Hawaii is one of the oldest tour companies in Hawaii and they have been running this Hawaii Grand Circle Island Tour for years.

This 10-hour minibus tour covers approximately 250 miles on the Big Island. You’ll get to see the beautiful Hamakua Coast, Rainbow Falls State Park, ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, and the Royal Kona Coffee Farm. Check out the latest prices and more details.

But, it also includes a comprehensive tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You’ll see the Volcano House, the Kilauea Iki Overlook, and Puhimau.

Get your Hawaii Grand Circle Island Tour tickets

Epic Island Journey

Hawaii Forest & Trail’s Epic Island Journey is an 11.5-hour tour where you’ll see some of the most popular Big Island attractions. Check out the latest prices and more details.

Check out Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles at Punalu’u Beach, see a beautiful flower farm, explore a private lava tube, tour Kona Joe’s coffee mill, and see Rainbow Falls from a private viewing deck.

One of the coolest parts of this tour is the guided exploration through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll get amazing views and learn tons about Hawaii’s geology and culture.

Get your Epic Island Journey tour tickets

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Driving Tour App

If you want your own DIY Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tour, download this driving app .

You’ll get turn-by-turn navigation to must-see locations like Kilauea Iki Trail, Thurston Lava Tube, Devastation Trail, Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs, and Holei Sea Arch.

Get the driving app

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park FAQs

It’s one of the best places to see fresh lava in Hawaii. Plus, this Hawaii National Park has some of the rarest geological and biological landscapes in the world.

Spread across all 8 islands, there are around 15 different volcanoes, but not all are active volcanoes any more.

There are 2 active volcanoes: Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Kilauea is the most active volcano.

You bet! Although, use common sense about not hiking on the sharp lava rock in the dark to avoid injuring yourself. And don’t go anywhere that has a “keep out” sign.

Yes, as long as the volcano is actively erupting. You can always check before your trip if that’s the main reason you’d like to visit this Hawaii National Park. If it is actively erupting, you have a great chance of seeing the lava flow since the park is open 24 hours a day!

While you can visit Volcano National Park Hawaii for a few hours, spending at least a day or two would probably be best. That way you can see and explore all the Volcano National Park things to do.

You will need to pay an entrance fee. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park entrance fee is $30 per vehicle.

There are tons of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park animals to see. You might spot some cool birds, insects, and marine life to enjoy during your volcano Hawaii vacation.

The Volcano Park Hawaii is open 24/7, even on holidays! So, no matter when you come to visit, you can always enjoy a nice Volcanoes National Park getaway.

Either early morning or after sunset is the best time to visit Volcano National Park to see the glow of the hot lava. However, it’s always best to check before you head out to see when the volcano will be most active for your Hawaii volcano trip!

Guide to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Wrap-Up

There are far too many things to see and do at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for one post. You can go simply to search for wildlife like boars, goats, donkeys, and all the native birds that live in the forest, including the Hawaiian goose.

Or you can go to bask in the hot springs near the Steam Vents and enjoy a natural sauna experience on this Hawaii island.

But no trip to the park would be complete without a stop at The Volcano House. Here you’ll find a 5-star restaurant that serves amazing food and is the perfect way to end your trip to the Hawaii Volcano National Park .

If you are heading to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with kids , you might want to run one of these volcano experiments at home . It’s a great way to learn about volcanoes!

Now that you know what to do at Volcano National Park, enjoy and have a blast with your Hawaii volcano vacation.

Looking for more things to do on the Big Island? Check out my Kona Travel Guide and my Hilo Travel Guide , Best Volcano Tours , Cheap Things to do on the Big Island , where to go skiing on the Big Island , and Best Places to Stay on the Big Island .

Ready to plan your trip to the big island.

LET ME DO THE WORK FOR YOU!

The Ultimate One Day in Volcanoes National Park Itinerary

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a Hawaii Volcanoes National Park itinerary is one of the top things to do when mapping out a trip to Hawaii. No visit to the Big Island of Hawaii is complete without one day in Volcanoes National Park.

The park spans about 523 square miles and is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes. Kilauea is one of the most active volcanoes in the world while Mauna Loa is the world’s largest shield volcano. During your visit to Volcanoes National Park, you’ll explore the lush and diverse ecosystems created by volcanoes. 

In this article, we’ll detail everything you need to know about getting to and around the park as well as the perfect Volcanoes National Park itinerary. Let’s jump in.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Volcanoes National Park?

You’re most likely visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park as part of a larger Big Island itinerary . However, you might still be wondering how much time do you need at Volcanoes National Park? Most visitors would recommend one to two days.

In one day, you can drive the main roads inside the park and catch its major highlights. If you stay the night nearby, you can also opt for a tour after dark for stargazing and seeing bright orange lava flow. 

With a little extra time, you can check out more of the park’s trails or head out toward the coastline to find unique rock formations from volcanic eruptions long ago.

The itinerary below is ideal if you have one day in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. We’ve also included some suggestions for places to check out if you have a little more time to spare.

Getting To & Around Volcanoes National Park

It’s best to visit Volcanoes National Park as a day trip from Hilo or a smaller town just outside the park. The drive from Hilo to the park entrance takes about 45 minutes though you can also stop here on the way from Kona to Hilo.

If you’re staying in Kona, a day trip into the park is a long day, with nearly two hours of driving on either end. However, if you want to make a day of visiting the Southernmost Point in the United States or the black sand beaches on the southern tip of the Big Island, this route works well. 

There is one entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and three main roads to get around, which makes navigating the park easy. A 7-day pass for one vehicle is $30, unless you already have an America the Beautiful Pass for $80 per year. 

While there are tours such as this small group tour and this private tour from both Kona and Hilo , it’s ideal to have your own vehicle. Odds are you’ll rent a car for at least a portion of your Big Island visit, so try to time your tour of Volcanoes National Park accordingly. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare car hire prices.

There is lodging available in the park, but it tends to be more expensive than staying outside it – Hilo makes an excellent base. However, if you’re doing a night tour , spending one night inside the park might be desirable.

1 Day in Volcanoes National Park Itinerary

A Volcanoes National Park day trip is full of highlights to fill your camera roll. Make sure to take your time exploring the park — it’s truly loaded with natural wonders that you’ll see in few other places. 

Stop at the Volcanoes National Park Visitors Center

Because of where you enter the park, you’ll most likely stop at the Kilauea Visitors Center. It’s right next to the entrance and it’s highly recommended you stop in upon arrival.

The Visitor Center has educational displays covering the geological history of the land. Between interactive exhibits, short movies, and artefacts, it’s a great way to welcome yourself to the national park. 

Here, you can also check in with park rangers to see which parts of the park are open or closed. Due to its being an active volcano, you might encounter periodic closures or reroutes due to volcanic activity. 

See the steam vents and sulphur banks

You’ll stop at the sulphur banks first. They are a short hike from the Visitor Center. It’s a loop trail — one mile out and back route from the Visitor Center parking lot.

Make sure you stay on the trail, especially as it changes to an elevated boardwalk, because volcanic gases and liquids rise from the surface. As you begin to smell rotten eggs, you’ll know you’re quickly approaching the sulphur banks. 

The steam vents are located a few-minute car ride away from the Visitor Center. Head down the Crater Rim Road to stop near Steaming Bluff. You’ll quickly spot the large holes in the ground where steam spills out. There is a metal railing that surrounds the vents. Like the sulphur banks, it smells terrible here. 

Check out Kilauea from the overlook

Once you’re back to the car, drive west along the Crater Rim Drive until you reach the Kilauea Overlook. The volcano started erupting again as recently as 2021. It’s easy to spot steam rolling up from the crater.

Here is one of the places where you can see the “night glow” of lava after dark. This is one of the most impressive sights you’ll see in the park. If you want a closer look, consider bringing a pair of binoculars. 

Note that most of the Crater Rim Drive isn’t open to visitors at this time (July 2023), so you’ll have to turn back from the overlook to head toward your next destinations for your one day in Volcanoes National Park.

Visit the lava tree molds

Lava tree molds form when lava from an eruption gathers around the trunks of trees, destroying the tree and leaving behind a hardened mold of the plant.

Over time, these columns of solidified lava have become staples of the landscape, and offer visitors a glimpse into the landscape that existed before the volcano’s major eruptions.

The most impressive tree molds are near Highway 11 on the Mauna Loa Road. 

Hike Devastation Trail

If you’re to do one or two shorter hikes in Volcanoes National Park, make sure one is the Devastation Trail. This short and paved trail crosses the lava field created from the 1959 Kilauea eruption. You’ll see first-hand how natural spaces start to recover after such cataclysmic events.

Keep an eye out for unique lava features like spatter effects and small glass-like lava called Pele’s hairs and tears. 

You’ll park at the Devastation Trail trailhead located near the turn-off for the Chain of Craters Road. The trail itself is easy. It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible as it’s an entirely paved trail. It’s a short one-mile round-trip hike, but make sure you bring proper walking clothes and shoes.

A hat to protect yourself from the sun and sunscreen is also highly recommended. There is little-to-no shade along the route and it can be hot, dry, and windy depending on the time of day you visit. Doing the hike in the morning, when it’s cooler temperatures and fewer hikers, could be a good option. 

Walk through the Thurston Lava Tube

The Thurston Lava Tube is hands-down one of the highlights of a Volcanoes National Park itinerary. This underground lava tube was formed when magma pushed its way from the volcano, carving a perfectly round and smooth tunnel. You can enter the tube from either side and walk all the way through.

Follow a short trail to arrive at the entrance. It’s wise to wear sturdy shoes during your visit as the ground within the tunnel can be uneven in places. You should also consider bringing a flashlight. The tunnel is lit by artificial lights from 8am to 8 pm, but there are still dark patches. 

Keep in mind that visiting midday tends to be the busiest for the Thurston Lava Tube. We recommend you try to time your visit first thing in the morning or mid-afternoon, depending on the direction you plan to explore the park. 

Stop at the Keanakakoi Overlook

If you’re on a mission to spot active lava during your visit, you won’t want to miss Keanakakoi Overlook. The crater was most likely formed during an eruption of Kilauea during the 1400s. Due to eruptions in 2018, part of the road to reach the overlook was destroyed.

An old portion of the Crater Rim Drive is open for foot traffic or bicyclists. Park at the trailhead parking lot for Devastation Trail and walk one mile along the road to reach the overlook. 

Do an evening tour

If you’ve done any reading about visiting Volcanoes National Park, you’ve probably heard about “night glow”. This phenomenon can only be experienced once the sun has gone down.

Head to Kilauea Overlook, or you can reserve a tour , to catch a glimpse of the lava glowing within the Halema’uma’u Crater. It’s a stark contrast to how the crater appeared during the day time. Light from the lava of this active volcano illuminated with vog (volcanic smog) and clouds above the crater.

Stick around a little longer for stargazing. You’ll have to venture away from the glow of Kilauea. The Mauna Loa Lookout or Hilina Pali Overlook are two excellent options for where to see the stars.

Without light obstruction from nearby towns, you’ll witness a night sky filled with twinkling little stars. Make sure to wear good shoes and pack a few extra layers. A flashlight or headlamp could also be helpful to have on hand. 

Have More Time?

Should you have some more time on your Hawaii Volcanoes National Park day trip, or you’re spending more than one day exploring the park, head out on the Chain of Craters Road.

The turn-off from the Crater Rim Road is just before the Thurston Lava Tube. This road takes you out to the coastline for spectacular views. It takes about 30 minutes to drive one way, so make sure you budget 1-2 hours for driving and stopping to see the sites. 

Your first stop, or last stop on the way back, is the Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs. Here is where native Hawaiians carved figures and scenes into the hardened lava somewhere between 1200 and 1450 CE. Expect a 1.4-mile out-and-back hike to see the petroglyphs. 

Hop back in your car and continue driving until you reach the coastline. Here you’ll arrive at the Holei Sea Arch. This stunning nature site is a 90-foot sea arch on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. It’s solidified lava eroded by years of ocean waves to create the arch seen today. From here, you also get spectacular views of the rugged coastline. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, climb Mauna Loa. This strenuous climb is a challenging hike, but well worth it for the views you get from the top. During the climb, you traverse over rough and jagged lava rock. Sturdy and reliable shoes are a must as you’re often walking on loose lava.

The summit is at a high altitude, so make sure you’re adequately prepared for the gain. Backcountry backpacking is also an option for those looking to break away from the crowds. Make sure you pack plenty of water and know the signs of altitude sickness. 

Please note that the Mauna Loa trail is currently closed above Red Hill Cabin due to ongoing volcanic activity. No matter what time of year you visit Volcanoes National Park, make sure to read up about the park’s current activity. Depending on the severity of any active eruptions, your entire park itinerary could change.

Where to Stay in Hilo

Hilo Bay Oceanfront Bed and Breakfast – Located in the center of Hilo, this cute bed and breakfast is an excellent choice for those looking for a base to explore the national park. They have a number of rooms on offer and there’s also breakfast available in the mornings. Click here to check availability

The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls – If you’re looking for a good jumping-off point for visiting Volcanoes National Park, then this tranquil inn is an excellent choice. They have both lovely cabins and beautiful rooms on offer and there is also breakfast each morning. Click here to check availability

Private Rental – If you’d like to find a self-catering option in Hilo or close to Volcanoes National Park, there are plenty to choose from — like this beach studio — in this area of the island. Click here to browse Hilo private rentals

Big Island Hostel – Those visiting Volcanoes National Park on a tight budget will love this backpacker’s hostel in Hilo. They offer a number of differently-sized dorms to choose from along with a great location and good common areas. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Hilo hotels!

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is truly like no other. This diverse and rich landscape captures several hundreds of years of history. During your visit, you’ll get a first-hand look at two of the world’s most active volcanoes and the landscape they’ve created. Use this itinerary as inspiration to plan the perfect Volcanoes National Park visit.

Are you planning to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Kona vs Hilo: Where to Stay on the Big Island?

Maui vs Big Island: Which Hawaiian Island to Visit?

The Perfect 4 to 5 Days in Maui Itinerary

About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park: The Complete Guide

Things to Do

• Best Hikes & Trails

Where to Camp

Where to stay nearby, how to get there, accessibility, tips for your visit, hawaiʻi volcanoes national park.

If you're staying on Hawaii’s Big Island , make sure to spend a day or overnight in the iconic Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Not only does the park give visitors the chance to experience some of the world’s most incomparable landscapes, but it also contains two of the most active volcanoes on earth, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park was first established in 1916, then later, in 1987, became a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a national program developed by Franklin D. Roosevelt following the Great Depression, is credited with laying the foundation for much of the infrastructure, including the Kīlauea Visitor Center, research offices, and many hiking trails still in use today. Traverse on top of dense volcanic rock, take a scenic drive along the summit of Kilauea, explore shady rainforests full of native plants and endangered birds, or spend the night in a cabin or campsite inside the park. There's so much to explore at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, making it a bucket-list Hawaiian adventure.

More than 500 years before it became a protected area, the land making up Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park was inhabited by native Hawaiians. The park continues to respect cultural traditions and preserve essential sites, including the sacred Puʻuloa, one of the largest petroglyph fields in Hawaii with depictions carved into hardened lava flows. This is a must-see attraction on your visit. Also, check out the ancient village of Kealakomo, a specific area once inhabited by early 15th-century Hawaiians who farmed and fished here.

If you prefer to view the park from your car, take the Chain of Craters Road Tour. This route takes you by scenic views of the coast, rainforests, and trails, and parts of the road have been covered by lava (and then repaired) almost every year since 1986. The Crater Rim Drive Tour, a much shorter jaunt, starts at the Kīlauea Visitor Center and goes past Kīlauea Iki Overlook, Puʻu Puaʻi Overlook, and Devastation Trail.

You can also take a day hike or backcountry hike to see cinder cones, sweeping coastal vistas, and pastoral land formerly used for cattle grazing. Or, spend an afternoon in the Kīlauea Visitor Center discovering its exhibits, checking in with rangers, obtaining hiking information, and grabbing a daily schedule of ranger-led activities. The visitor center also sells books, posters, and educational items.

Best Hikes & Trails

There are several different day hikes and multi-day backcountry hikes available to visitors inside the park, all varying in length, scenery, and technicality. You can traverse across lava fields, hike down into craters, and descend from the mountains all the way to the coast. Due to the consistent volcanic activity level in the park, make sure to check trail conditions before venturing out.

• Devastation Trail : This easy wheelchair-accessible paved path takes you on a mile-long journey through an area previously buried by the falling cinder from the Kīlauea Iki eruption of 1959. On this trail, you can witness plant and animal life returning to the lava fields.
• Crater Rim Trail : This 2.2-mile trail used to be a paved road that was damaged due to earthquakes from the 2018 eruptions. Now, this footpath gives you a closer look at one of the most active volcanoes in the world, as it traverses the rim of the Kilauea summit caldera.
• Kīpukapuaulu Loop Trail: This 1.1-mile dirt path will take you through a surprisingly lush ecological area with rare plants and old-growth trees. It's a good jaunt to embark on if you want to get a taste of a completely different ecosystem in the park.
• Mauna Iki Trail to Kulanaokuaiki Campground : History buffs will definitely want to consider hiking the Mauna Iki Trail through portions of the Kaʻū Desert and past actual Native Hawaiian footprints left in the long-cooled volcanic rock. This long 7.9-mile moderate hike is best tackled as an overnight, ending at the Kulanaokuaiki Campground. It's a great journey for those wanting to seek solitude. Just make sure to pick up your backcountry permit before heading out.

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park has two campgrounds, complete with large, open grassy areas for tents, rustic cabins that sleep four, and primitive sites without water. RV camping is not permitted inside the park, but county and state parks outside of the park may offer appropriate accommodations.

• Nāmakanipaio Campground : Operated by the Hawai'i Volcanoes Lodge Company , this campground is located 31.5 miles south of Hilo on Highway 11 at 4,000 feet above sea level. Sixteen tent sites are situated in a grassy field among towering eucalyptus trees and native 'ōhi'a trees. Each site has a picnic table, a barbecue pit (campfires are only allowed inside the pits), and on-site bathrooms are available for use. You can also rent one of ten rustic cabins that sleep four (one double bed and two bunk twin beds), giving you access to a newly renovated bathroom and shower facility. Hawai'i Volcanoes Lodge Company also rents tents and camping equipment for those who come empty-handed. Reservations are recommended, especially for the cabins.
• Kulanaokuaiki Campground : The primitive Kulanaokuaiki Campground is located 5 miles down Hilina Pali Road. There are only nine designated sites at this campground, complete with picnic tables and tent pads, but there is no water on-site. Also, fires and dogs are not permitted here. A vault-type toilet is available at Kulanaokuaiki and all sites are managed on a first-come, first-served basis.

For those who prefer to stay at a traditional Hawaiian retreat, as opposed to roughing it, there are plenty of options in and near the town of Volcano. Choose from typical hotel rooms and guest cottages tucked into the rainforest, yet close to the town's amenities.

• Volcano House : Guests who want hotel accommodations can stay inside one of 33 rooms at the Volcano House, a historic building originally constructed in 1846 out of grass and 'ōhi'a wood poles. Today, the hotel's modern makeover gives you three lodging styles to choose from. The Standard Room sleeps one to four people, the Volcano Crater View Room gives you close-up views of Halema’uma'u crater, and the slightly larger Deluxe Volcano Crater View Room sleeps one to three people with views of Kilauea caldera. The Rim restaurant and Uncle George's Lounge offer farm-to-table, sea-to-plate, and to-go style dining.
• Volcano Rainforest Retreat : The enchanting Volcano Rainforest Retreat is a boutique bed and breakfast that offers guest cottages, each with its own bathroom and private Japanese o'furo hot tub. Cottages range from 200 to 650 square feet of living space and can accommodate two to four people. The retreat is located close to Volcano Village's restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and a farmer’s market.
• Volcano Inn : The Volcano Inn bed and breakfast puts you in the middle of a tropical rainforest, offering double rooms and family-style accommodations on two properties. Each stay comes complete with an island-style breakfast and an on-site hot tub is available for use 24 hours a day. Relax on the property's lanai while you admire the native plants. This inn is only a short 4-minute drive from Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.

While the rest of Hawaii offers a wide range of exciting activities and sites, there is only one way for visitors to get close to an active volcano, and that’s by driving to Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. The park is located about 30 miles southwest of Hilo on Highway 11 (a 45-minute drive) and 96 miles southeast of Kailua-Kona on Highway 11 (a 2-hour drive). There is no public transportation within the park (which spans 500 square miles), so be prepared to either walk, bike, or drive around upon arriving. Additionally, expect to pay a vehicle, motorcycle, or bicycle admission fee.

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park does an exceptional job of welcoming those with disabilities and physical limitations. Miles of paved hiking trails, including the Devastation Trail, give up-close volcanic access to those in a wheelchair. The Kīlauea Visitor Center has four handicapped parking spaces, automatic doors, ADA-compliant restrooms, and is completely laid out with accessibility in mind. The Crater Rim Cafe at the Kilauea Military Camp is fully accessible and offers a 25 percent discount for former military personnel. Both of the scenic overlooks on the Chain of Craters Road Tour are wheelchair accessible (although only one is listed as so). And, the Sulfur Banks have paved and boardwalk areas that can be navigated by wheelchairs, as well. Go early to avoid the crowds.

• If you’ve visited this park before the 2018 eruptions, there have been quite a few changes. The series of eruptions and resulting lava flow completely shut down Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park for months. While a majority of the attractions have since reopened, some of the park’s major highlights are closed indefinitely, including the Jaggar Museum and the Kilauea Caldera observatory building.
• Check the conditions website before heading into the park, as some areas affected by the 2018 eruptions have yet to be reopened. Since land here is actively volcanic, there is always the possibility for last-minute closures due to cracks, fumes, or vog (volcanic smog).
• The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, so waking up for a sunrise or staying in the park at sunset is entirely possible (and recommended!).
• If you’re planning on hiking the Kīlauea Iki Trail get to the park early. The trailhead parking at this popular 4-mile loop hike will be full by 9 a.m., no matter the day of the week. Rangers advise getting there by 7 a.m. to avoid the crowds.
• Pick up the annual Tri-Park Pass at the entrance station if you plan on also visiting Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park on the west side of Hawaii Island and Haleakalā National Park on Maui.
• Wear closed-toed shoes to the park and be aware that most of the lava field areas are not shaded. Therefore, a sun hat and sunscreen are highly recommended, as well.
• Stay on marked trails and designated roads for safety, and keep away from steam vents, cracks, and cliffs.
• Park fees are waived on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the first day of National Park Week in April, the National Park Service Anniversary (August 25), National Public Lands Day (September 23), and Veterans Day.

The Best 10 Hikes in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

17 of the Most Beautiful Places in Hawaii

72 Hours on Hawaii Island: The Ultimate Itinerary

Poas Volcano National Park: The Complete Guide

10 National Parks Tied to Asian/Pacific American History

The 20 Best Things to Do in Hawaii

18 Best Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii

Yellowstone National Park: The Complete Guide

14 Free Things to Do on Hawaii's Big Island

Congaree National Park: The Complete Guide

Grand Canyon National Park: The Complete Guide

Yosemite National Park: The Complete Guide

Which Hawaiian Island Should I Visit?

Akaka Falls State Park: The Complete Guide

Golden Gate Canyon State Park: The Complete Guide

The Most Dog-Friendly National Parks in the U.S.

PRESENTED BY TRAVELODGE BY WYNDHAM

Everything to know about Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

With a hiss of steam, lava flowed from the park into the Pacific Ocean in January 2017. Similar flows of molten rock have built up the Hawaiian Islands over the course of more than 70 million years.

Established:   August 1, 1916 Size:   323,431 acres Annual Visitors:   2 million Visitor Centers:   Kilauea, daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entrance Fees:   $30 per vehicle; $15 per individual

Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , on the Big Island of Hawaii , is like stepping foot on another planet.

Recent lava flows stretch out for miles in a rocky wasteland that more closely resembles the Moon than Earth. Huge waves send sea spray dozens of feet into the air along the wild, craggy coastline. Endangered birds waddle across the path on an ascent up the world’s largest single mountain. If the timing is right, visitors can catch a natural fireworks show of lava pouring into the ocean or see plumes of molten rock arching above one of the planet’s rare lava lakes.

Two celebrated volcanoes—one of them very tall, the other very active—frame this large national park. From glowing lava flows and earth-shaking tremors to wind, rain, and waves, the geological and meteorological forces that shaped our planet are fully on display on the Big Island. While volcanism rules the day, pockets of rainforest and grassland shelter rare Hawaiian flora and fauna.

“Double, double toil and trouble; fire burn and caldron bubble.” Shakespeare could just as easily have been describing Hawaiian volcanoes rather than a witch’s brew in Macbeth . No other national park produces so much drama on a regular basis.

Kilauea is one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Its monthslong 2018 event destroyed hundreds of homes, sent massive plumes of ash rocketing into the air, and collapsed nearly 2,000 feet of the crater’s summit. Its most recent and currently ongoing eruption began in September 2021.

Hike the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail to see tide pools formed over the remains of old lava flows.

It abuts the southeastern slope of the older and much larger Mauna Loa , or “long mountain.” Active for some 700,000 years, Mauna Loa towers 13,677 feet above the sea. Measured from its base 18,000 feet below sea level, it exceeds Mount Everest in height. Mauna Loa’s gently sloping bulk—some 19,000 cubic miles in volume—makes it the planet’s most massive single mountain.

The national park stretches from sea level to Mauna Loa’s summit. Beyond the end of the road lies Mauna Loa's wilderness area, where backpackers encounter freezing nights and rough lava trails amid volcanic wonders: barren lava twisted into nightmarish shapes, cinder cones, and gaping pits. Kilauea, however, provides easy access to a greater variety of scenery and cultural sites .

Related: See volcanoes around the world

On the slopes of Kilauea, whose name means “spreading, much spewing,” lush green rainforest borders stark, recent lava flows. This natural laboratory of ecological change displays all stages of forest regeneration—from early regrowth of lichens and ferns to dense forest. The rainforest on the windward side of Kilauea’s summit gives way to the stark, windswept Kau Desert on the hot, dry southwestern slope. At the shore, waves create lines of jagged cliffs; periodic eruptions send fresh lava flows to meet the sea amid colossal clouds of steam.

Geological dynamism forms the park’s primary natural theme, followed closely by evolutionary biology. Thousands of unique species have evolved on the isolated Hawaiian islands. Cultural sites abound as well, reminders of the Polynesian pioneers who steered their great double-hulled canoes to Hawaii beginning some 1,500 years ago.

The United Nations has named the park both an international biosphere reserve and a World Heritage site . Many of the park’s intriguing native plants and animals, however, are in peril, defenseless against alien species including weedy invasive plants and feral pigs. The native species are carefully protected by the park, which has fenced the park’s borders off from feral pigs and taken efforts to eradicate invasive weeds.

Can’t-miss experiences

Two outstanding auto routes provide easy access to the park’s main attractions. Crater Rim Drive   hugs the edge of Kilauea Caldera and leads to viewpoints where visitors can gaze into the belly of the beast and inhale its pungent sulfur scent. Near the start of the route, the park Visitor Center   offers exhibits and important safety information, as well as an excellent film, “Born of Fire, Born of the Sea.”

( Volcano tourism is booming, but is it too risky ?)

Across the road, Volcano House   (built in 1846) is one of the oldest lodges in the entire National Park System; the back terrace is a great place to get your first glimpse of the crater. Located in another historic structure, Volcano Art Center   offers classes and workshops, a gallery dedicated to local artists, hula performances, and free guided hikes into the Niaulani rainforest .

When surface lava is flowing in the park, sightseeing boat tours offer the chance to watch molten lava hiss and steam as it met the ocean at Kamokuna. Explore Chain of Craters Road ,   which meanders 20 miles through tortuous volcanic landforms between Kilauea Caldera and Holei Sea Arch . Numerous places en route beg a stop, including lofty Kealakomo Overlook ,   the Martian-like landscape of Mau Loa o Mauna Ulu lava field, and the boardwalk trail that leads to the Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs , where more than 23,000 images were rendered by native Hawaiians between A.D. 1200 and 1450.

Reaching the summit of Mauna Loa   is a herculean effort. A narrow, paved road ascends to a lookout point at 6,662 feet. The rest of the route is on foot, a 16-mile trail that quickly morphs from native woodland into lava rock wilderness. Most people undertake the trek over four days, with overnights in national park mountain huts.

The park’s other iconic backcountry hike is the Kau Desert Trail, a rugged 18-mile trek that leads from the trailhead off of Highway 11 across undulating lava fields to Hilina Pali   cliffs and overnight campsites along the Pacific coast like Halape   with its sandy beaches and coconut grove.

Where to stay

Hotels:   Inside the park, the historic Volcano House has long captivated guests; recently renovated, it perches on the rim of Kilauea caldera, offering stunning views and a unique perspective. The elegant Volcano Village Lodge sits just two miles outside of the park.

Camping:   There are two drive-in campgrounds in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Namakanipaio and Kulanaokuaiki. The former offers rustic, but charming, camping cabins.

Off-season activities

Mauna Kea National Natural Landmark : At 13,803 feet, this volcano is the nation’s highest insular mountain, as well as the highest point in Hawaii. Onizuka Center for International Astronomy facilitates public stargazing on the peak.

Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail : This 175-mile coastal route around the Big Island features eight sites significant to native Hawaiian culture and history, including Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau and Kaloko-Honokōhau national historical parks.

Pu‘u O Umi Natural Area Reserve : Perched on the Big Island’s north shore, this remote reserve harbors 13 native ecosystems including rare montane bog and ‘ohi’a forest.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden : Just north of Hilo, this 17-acre preserve showcases more than 2,000 plant species including palms, bromeliads, and heliconias.

Related Topics

• NATIONAL PARKS

You May Also Like

Hiking Kazakhstan: a day in Charyn Canyon National Park

National parks overcrowded? Visit a national forest.

Free bonus issue.

10 national parks to avoid the summer crowds

How to visit Biscayne National Park

How to visit Lake Clark National Park and Preserve

Some U.S. national parks are trying to go carbon-free. What does that mean for visitors?

25 breathtaking places and experiences for 2023

• Environment
• Paid Content

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• History Magazine
• Gory Details
• 2023 in Review
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

The Ultimate Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Adventure Guide

Plan an incredible adventure in Hawaii’s Volcano National Park. Discover the best trails, where to see the lava up close & tips for camping near the park.

When most people think of Hawai’i, they think of paradise. With its lush green islands, dramatic waterfalls, and gorgeous beaches, it’s easy to see why. But what many people don’t know is that Hawai’i is also home to some of the most active volcanoes in the world! So if you’re looking for an adventure, then a trip to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a must.

This incredible park is full of opportunities for exploration and excitement, and in this post, we’ll tell you how to make the most of it. So pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Start planning your Hawai’i adventure with this detailed guide to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

Where is Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park?

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is located on the southeast side of the Island of Hawai’i, which is commonly known as the Big Island. The Park is spread out over 323,000 acres with almost half the park designated as Wilderness Area.

There is one Visitor’s Center at the entrance of the park in the town of Volcano .

Getting to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

The island of Hawai’i has two airports located in Kona and Hilo . The Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park summit area, which is the most widely visited section of the park, is a 45-minute drive from Hilo and 2-2.5 hour drive from Kona. 

Most visitors fly into the Kona airport , which means it can be a little busier than Hilo. If you can get reasonable flights, I encourage you to fly into one airport and fly out of the other so that you can experience as much of the island as possible. Be sure to check on one-way rental car prices first. If you’re looking for things to do in Kona during your trip, check out this guide .

Either way, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is accessible from either side of the island so don’t fret too much about which airport to fly into. You’ll need a rental car to explore the park as there is no public transportation within the park and other attractions on the rest of the Big Island are pretty spread out. 

If you want to rent a campervan or car that you can sleep in, check out Outdoorsy .

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Makp

How Much Time To Spend At Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

If you want to visit lava up close and personal, then you should allow at least TWO full days for visiting Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park . If you don’t plan to view lava up close, you can fit in the highlights of the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park in one day, but you could also easily spend 3+ days in the park. Let’s just say I wish we would have had more time to explore!

Here are a few tips to help you plan your visit to the park:

• It is $30 per private vehicle to enter the park. Get a National Park Pass before your trip if you plan to visit more than 3 parks in one year.
• The Kilauea Visitor’s Center is open from 9am-5pm daily and will be on your right shortly after entering the park. I strongly recommend you stop here on your way in. They have excellent informational boards that list attractions, ranger talks, current conditions, and suggested itineraries for spending an hour, a full day, or multiple days in the park. You can also talk to rangers regarding any last-minute questions you have.
• At most National Parks, guests work to beat the crowds by getting up early. This is true at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, but you also don’t want to miss evenings in the park. The lava viewing is best at night and stargazing can be spectacular in this area as well. Make sure you have plenty of food packed for a full day of adventuring in the park.
• There is a second area of the park, the Kahuku Unit, which is only open Thursday through Sunday from 8am-4pm. This Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park guide focuses on the central summit area of the park near the Kilauea Visitor’s Center, not the Kahuku Unit .

When to Visit Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

In Hawai’i, temperatures and conditions vary significantly by elevation & time of year. The weather at Kilauea’s summit (4000 feet in elevation) changes daily and can be rainy and chilly any time of the year.

The drier season in Hawai’i is from May-October, but that being said it can rain any time of the year. The coastal area of the park, at the end of Chain of Craters Road, is often hot, dry, and windy with the possibility of passing showers. If you want to avoid crowds, the spring & fall are the best times, in general, for visiting the Big Island.

7 Interesting Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Facts

Every National Park has its own unique history and interesting facts, but because Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is so dynamic and its landscape changes every year, it’s even more fascinating.

Here are a few fun and interesting facts about Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park:

• Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park encompasses two active volcanoes : Kilauea and Mauna Loa. In 2018, a large eruption of the Kilauea volcano changed the landscape of the park forever and remains one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
• The park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
• Mauna Loa is the largest volcano in the world . It stands at over 13,000 feet above sea level.
• Many Hawai’ians believe that Kilauea is inhabited by a family of fire gods, including Pele, the goddess of volcanoes and fire and the creator of the Hawaiian Islands
• The park is home to seven different ecological zones including a tree fern forest, which receives nearly 100 inches of rainfall a year.
• Since Kilauea’s eruption that started in 1983, more than 500 acres of new land have been added to the island of Hawai’i.
• Backpackers can summit Mauna Loa. The trip takes about 4-5 days.
• If you’re lucky, some visitors can see molten lava flow into the ocean.

What To Do In Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

1. stop by the volcano art center.

Just to the left of the Visitor Center is the original Volcano House Lodge which serves now as the Volcano Art Center. The center is a great place to pick up unique, handmade Hawaiian gifts . The Art Center is open 9am-5pm daily.

They offer demonstrations, classes, and workshops, so I recommend checking their calendar before planning your itinerary for the day.

2. Hike the Kilauea Iki Crater Trail

The 4-mile Kilauea Iki Trail Loop will take you from the lookout on Crater Rim Drive down to the floor of Kilauea Iki crater. The Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center sells a great trail guide filled with lots of facts and interesting history, or you can  download the guide online .

The trail begins shaded by the surrounding rainforest, but soon enough you’ll be on the floor of what used to be a lava lake. It can be hot and exposed, so be sure to protect your skin from the sun .

This is a beautiful hike and a great intro to exploring the Park. Beat the sun (& the crowds) and start your 2-hour trek before 9 am.

Tip: Don’t miss the Kilauea Iki film in the Visitor’s Center beforehand. It will give a whole new meaning to your hike.

3. Walk through the Thurston Lava Tube

The 500-year-old Thurston Lava Tube in Volcanoes National Park is definitely worth a quick stop, especially if you’ve never had the experience of being in a lava tube. It’s a strange feeling knowing that you’re standing where a stream of 2,000°F lava once flowed!

The Thurston Lava tube is located right across the road from the second Kilauea Iki parking area, so stop by after you’re finished with your Kilauea Iki crater hike.

Alternatively, the lava tube is great for those who can’t complete longer walks or for those traveling with little kids.

4. Drive Crater Rim Drive to the Holei Sea Arch

Crater Rim Drive is the main road through Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and it ends at Holei Sea Arch on the Pacific Ocean. There are plenty of stops along the way, so take your time. The drive is almost 19 miles long with an elevation change of 3,700 feet. The reason why this drive is so impressive is you get to visualize how lava has flown across the park over time. Volcanoes National Park has a Crater Rim driving guide .

On the drive, you’ll see examples of both types of lava; a’ā and pāhoehoe. There are areas you can stop and see evidence of former park roads that don’t operate anymore due to lava flowing over the road. There used to be a Visitor Center, a heiau (ancient Hawaiian temple), a campground, and a black sand beach along the road but they have all been covered/destroyed by lava. This was one of my favorite things to do in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park!

It’s worth taking the road all the way to the sea arch just to see the expansiveness of the lava flow.

History and culture buffs who are looking for a short walk might enjoy the Puu Loa Petroglyphs Trail , but I didn’t think it was as exciting as some of the other sites in the Park.

5. See Lava Flow Up Close

If you’ve seen any photos of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, you’ve probably seen images of hot lava up close at night. Unfortunately not everyone is lucky enough to visit when there is active lava flow, but if the lava is flowing, this is a must-do activity.

When I visited in 2018, the best viewing place was an hour north of the Park near the town of Kalapana . Here you could see the lava flowing right into the ocean!

However, in 2024, there is no lava flowing there. The good news is the more recent lava flows have been located right in the heart of Volcanoes National Park, making it much more convenient.

The Volcanoes National Park NPS website has extensive additional information and daily updates on the lava flow . Check this out before your visit so you know what to expect.

Tips for seeing the lava at night

• Bring plenty of water – ideally in a hydration bladder for hands free drinking. The lava puts off a lot of heat, and the air is very dry.
• You should have strong, sturdy hiking boots or tennis shoes. I would not recommend wearing flip-flops, Tevas, or thin-soled tennis shoes, as the lava is sharp.
• If you plan to visit the lava for sunset, make sure you have a flashlight (not your cell phone camera’s light) and extra batteries. We recommend a headlamp .

Where to Eat Near Volcanoes National Park

Just a word of note, there aren’t a ton of dining options in the local area and there are a lot of tourists. I highly recommend making food reservations once you have your trip planning completed. There isn’t a main “downtown” area in Volcano, Hawai’i, and the surrounding community is similar to a rural area on the mainland.

The Kilauea Lodge , in Volcano, Hawai’i, did not disappoint for breakfast. They have a unique menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that is slightly European, yet has local Hawaiian favorites.

Both Tuk Tuk Thai Food Wagon & Cafe Ono came highly recommended to us by both locals and tourists, but since we had a substantial breakfast, we munched on snacks in our car until dinner.

If you only have a day in the park, I recommend packing enough food so that you don’t have to leave just to get lunch. Cafe Ono closes after lunch and Tuk Tuk Thai closes at 6pm.

Ohelo Cafe offered an excellent dinner for a reasonable price, especially considering there are few other options in the town of Volcano open past 6pm. They have wood-fired pizzas as well as other options and specialize in serving fresh food with a Hawaiian flair. They are closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays and reservations are strongly recommended.

Packing Food from Hilo

There are great grocery stores in Hilo. I recommend stocking up on snacks before heading to Volcano. Island Naturals has tons of options if you are vegan/gluten-free. The Hilo Farmers Market , open 7 days a week, is also an excellent choice for picking up local fresh fruit/vegetables.

After visiting the National Park, I recommend a stop at Volcano Winery, which offers tours and tastings by reservation only. They carry a traditional Pinot Noir and also offer unique creations like Mele, Mac Nut Honey Wine, and Guava Wine.

Where to Stay Near Volcanoes National Park

There are two drive-in campgrounds in the park:

Namakanipalo Reservable Campground

• The campground is run by the Volcanoes Lodging Company, which also operates the only hotel in the National Park, the Volcano House Hotel
• 16 Tents sites are available as well as 10 one-room rustic cabins
• The campground has restrooms, water, picnic tables, and barbeque pits
• The campground is at 4,000 feet so it is cool & damp year-round. You’ll want to make sure you have a tent that is waterproof with a quality rain fly. You can rent a tent from the Volcanoes Lodging Company for an additional $40 if you aren’t traveling with camping equipment.
• Campground reservations can be made online or by calling the Volcano House.

Kulanaokualki First-Come, First-Serve Campground

• Located 5 miles down Hillina Pali Road at 2,700 feet elevation
• Nine campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis
• The campground has picnic tables and pit toilets, but NO WATER
• Sites are $10 per night
• No pets allowed

Additional Lodging Options

Volcano house lodge.

The Volcano House Lodge is the only hotel in the National Park. It has 33 guest rooms as well as a dining room & lounge. If you’ve stayed at other National Parks hotels, it has a similar slightly rustic vibe. It is a short walk from the Kilauea Visitor Center.

Hotels near the Park

• Volcano Village Lodge
• Lotus Garden Cottages
• Volcano Rainforest Retreat

Recommended Gear to Pack

For a complete packing list, head over to our Hawai’i Packing List For Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts . Below are a few items we recommend packing that are especially helpful when visiting Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

• Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park National Geographic Map – this is a great map that shows hiking trails, points of interest, and other helpful information to make the most of your visit.
• Hawai’i The Big Island Revealed – if you plan on exploring the Big Island outside of the National Park, be sure the pick up this book. It’s filled with great tips on things to do and see.
• Close-toed shoes – sturdy sandals will work, but close-toed shoes are a better choice. Lava rock is incredibly sharp and if you stub your toe, it’ll hurt!
• A Daypack – there aren’t many amenities to be found inside the park boundaries, so be sure to bring a pack big enough to fit everything you’ll need for the day including water, snacks, and your hiking essentials .

Have you visited Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park? What were your favorite things to do? Do you have any helpful tips? Leave us a comment below!

Kim is a former principal who quit her job to solo hike all 2,650 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail. In other words…she’s a badass. She currently lives in Santa Barbara where she practices yoga, whips up tasty vegetarian food, and works as a guide leading kayaking, hiking, and biking tours.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Amazing pictures. Thank you!

How long does the hike up see the lava take? You recommend two days in the park if you want to see the lava but then don’t say how long the hike is mike-wise or time-wise. Thanks

The lava flow in Kalapana changes daily, so mileage can differ depending on what the lava flow is doing. But expect to hike about 4 miles one-way to see the lava.

Thanks for all of the information! Do you have a tour guide/company you would recommend?

Hi Sara, unfortunately this was written by someone who doesn’t write for us anymore so I’m not sure what tour guide/co they went through. Best of luck!

Perfect One Day in Volcano National Park Itinerary

Looking to make the most of your day trip to Volcano National Park?

Well, here’s a nice and jam-packed one day in Volcano National Park itinerary inspired by the route I took during my one month trip to Hawaii in December 2020. Literally three days before the volcano erupted!

Even though I had to stay in a mandatory pandemic hotel for a whole week, once I got out, we went all out to make the most of our time on the Big Island. Thankfully, Volcano National Park is totally enough to see in one day.

However, let’s make the most of your day with a packed schedule, kicking off with a drive through the Kilauea Caldera, a hike through the Thurston Lava Tube, and a sunset the cliffs at the end of Chain of Craters Road. I’ll also throw in some other awesome places to check out and a quick travel guide on how to visit. 

Sample One Day in Volcano National Park Itinerary

So you have everything in one scroll, here’s a sample suggested itinerary that goes into much more  detail below.

Travel Tip!  If you couldn’t tell from the name of the park, there are volcanoes! And guess what? They’re active, which means they still erupt. So, always check for any closures or if you need to evacuate at any time.

Morning: Crater Rim Drive

• Begin your day here at the  Kīlauea Visitor Center . 
• Drive on Crater Rim Drive  to the end at  Uēkahuna  for views of  Kīlauea caldera and Halema’uma’u crater.
• Hike the geothermal phenomena,  Ha‘akulamanu (Sulphur Banks)
• Watch the Steam Vents  caused by rainwater being heated by the volcano.

Midday: Chain of Craters Road

• Walk through the dark tunnel  Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube)
• Drive past devasted areas, craters, and old flows on  Coast on Chain of Craters Road  (Luamanu and July 1974 Flow, Puhimau Crater, Pauahi Crater, Mau Loa o Maunaulu, Muliwai a Pele)
• Optional:  Detour to the  Hilina Pali Overlook  before Pauahi Crater
• Stop at Kealakomo Overlook  for the coastline and lava fields

Afternoon: The Coast

• Hike to Pu`u Loa Petroglyphs  for ancient rock carvings made by the native Hawaiian people.
• Hike along the coastline and watch the waves crashing on the  Hōlei Sea Arch for sunset.

Evening: Evening Activities

• As darkness falls, stay for the  Night Glow from Kīlauea Volcano.
• Stargazing at the top of Mauna Loa.

Recommended lodging options for the night: Volcano Village or Hilo

• Volcano House:  Only lodging inside the park
• Kulanaokuaiki Campground:  First-come, first-served, $10/night.
• The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls in Hilo :  Waterfall view from the most common starting city

Quick Facts to Visiting Volcano

Occupying 323,431 acres on Hawaii, Volcano National Park showcases some of the world’s most active volcanoes. Kīlauea and Mauna Loa stretch from sea level to a height of 13,680 feet.

With its hardened lava flows, ancient eruption sites, and tropical ecosystems, this park is a hotbed for strange, otherworldly landscapes where you can clearly see where the lava ends and the grass begins.

Know Before You Go!

• Volcanic Activity:  You’re visiting one of the world’s most active volcanic sites. I went three days before a giant eruption. Stay ready for any changes in park access because of volcanic activity.

What to Do in Volcano in One Day

Now that we’ve got the general plan down, let’s dive into each activity of your one day in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in more detail. 

Volcano National Park is pretty easy to navigate, as it really just has four main roads: 

• Crater Rim Drive
• Chain of Craters Road
• Mauna Loa Road
• Hilina Pali Road

Morning: Crater Rim Road

Start your journey through Volcano National Park at the Kīlauea Visitor Center to grab some maps, learn about the park, and chat with rangers to see if there are any closures. This also happens to be where my National Park postcard collection started. Then let’s hit the Crater Rim Drive first.

Crater Rim Drive is an 11 mile scenic route that partially encircles Kīlauea Caldera, with views of the impressive Halema’uma’u crater and Kīlauea’s steaming vents. Along the way, you’ll drive past geothermal activities, including the sulfur banks and steam vents.

You can stop on the way, or I’d recommend driving until the road ends since you’ll need to loop back to the visitor center anyway.

Travel Trip!  The road is partially closed due to the 2018 Kīlauea eruption. Jagger Museum and Halema’uma’u Overlook are closed. 

Kīlauea Iki Overlook and Trailhead

This marks the end of the Crater Rim Road, mainly because lava has destroyed the rest. You’ll get a fantastic view of the very active Kīlauea Iki Crater at the overlook. 

During the day, you can see smoke coming out of the crater, and if the volcano is erupting, this is the place to catch a glimpse of the lava glow at night.

Kilauea Volcano & Lava Viewing Update 2023!  Currently, no lava flows are present outside the crater or at the ocean entry point. So, no glow or lava. 

If you’re up for a more rigorous hike, you can take the 4-mile Kīlauea Iki Trail that descends 400 feet through the rainforest, into the lava lake bed of the crater, and then climbs back out again.

  Trail Info

• Distance:  Approximately 4 miles round-trip
• Difficulty:  Moderate 
• Estimated Time:  2-3 hours

Sulphur Banks (Ha’akulamanu)

Once you’ve doubled back, Sulphur Banks is your next major stop. It’s a relaxed stroll on a paved trail through volcanic gases and mineral deposits, on a vibrant and colorful landscape. 

Don’t be surprised if you get a whiff of rotten eggs – that’s just the smell of Sulphur dioxide gas! Your shoes also may not make it out squeaky clean.

• Distance:  Approximately 1.2 miles round-trip
• Difficulty:  Easy 
• Estimated Time:  1 hour

Technically, you can also start from the visitor center, as this is a loop trail, or follow this itinerary and go to the steam vents afterward. 

Steam Vents  (Wahinekapu)

Am I the only one that read the Hawaiian name as “Winnie the Pooh”?

On the opposite side of the road from the Sulphur Banks, you’ll find the Steam Vents. Feel that warm, moist air on your face? That’s rainwater seeping into the ground, meeting the hot volcanic rock below, and then returning to the surface as steam.

• Distance:  Approximately 0.5 miles round-trip
• Estimated Time:  30 minutes

After exploring the Kīlauea section of the park, it’s time to head towards the coast on the Chain of Craters Road. This 20 mile round-trip drive takes you down to where lava once flowed across the road past pretty devasted areas.

Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube)

There are few places you can walk through a tunnel formed by flowing lava, and Thurston Lava Tube is the safest and most accessible in all of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This is one of my favorite spots in the park, especially the view of the stairs entering the darkness surrounded by rainforest.

Lava tubes are formed when the outer layer of a lava flow cools and hardens, but the inside continues to flow, eventually leaving a hollow tube once the lava has fully drained out. So, basically, it’s a cave. 

As you step inside, you enter a passage where molten rock once flowed. The tube is well-lit, and the path is smooth. You’ll be amazed by the size of this underground cavern.

Travel Tip!  The lava tube is lit from 8am to 8 pm. Otherwise, you can still go, but you’ll need a flashlight.

• Distance:  0.3 miles round-trip (if you get a parking spot)
• Elevation Gain:  Minimal 

Coast on Chain of Craters Road Various Stops

There are a lot of stops on the scenic drive, and below, I’ll shout out a few that are especially worth visiting. Many of these are just an easy walk from a pull-out.

• Luamanu and July 1974 Flow : Luamanu is a pit crater, a result of an eruption in 1974 and now a solidified lava flow 
• Puhimau Crater : This pit crater is a geothermal area with warm ground temperatures.
• Pauahi Crater:  Another impressive pit crater at the park, with sheer size and a stark landscape surrounding it.
• Mau Loa o Mauna Ulu : A vast lava field formed by the Mauna Ulu eruption in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
• Muliwai a Pele : A site where a lava channel transformed into a lush, green area.
• Kealakomo Overlook : A spectacular panorama of the coast, where the stark black lava meets the deep blue ocean

Optional Detour: Hilina Pali Overlook

If you’ve got some spare time, take a little detour and drive Hilina Pali Road to the Hilina Pali Overlook. It’s a narrow, one-lane road, 9 miles off of Chain of Craters Road, and is narrow an

Here, you’ll see the Pali (cliff in Hawaiian) drop a dramatic 2,000 feet to the coast. The most recent volcanic eruption in this vicinity happened about 650 years ago.

Afternoon: Hawaii Volcano National Park Coastline

Pu`u loa petroglyphs.

Pu`u Loa Petroglyphs is home to Hawaii’s largest collection of petroglyphs, with over 23,000 rock carvings etched into the hardened lava.

• Distance:  1.5 miles round trip
• Difficulty:  Easy

The trail to Pu`u Loa Petroglyphs is a flat, easy walk traversing an ancient lava field. At the end of the path, you’ll find a wooden boardwalk that will lead you around the petroglyphs. 

The carvings vary from circles and dots to human-like figures and canoes. These are thought to mark significant events, like births. 

Sunset at Hōlei Sea Arch

As the perfect end to your adventurous day, catch the golden glow of sunset at Hōlei Sea Arch. Formed by the relentless forces of the sea, this sky behind the natural archway turns golden as the sun sinks into the Pacific Ocean beyond.

To get to Hōlei Sea Arch is a breeze, with a short walk from the parking area. As you go along the path, the arch gradually comes into view with waves crashing into the formation.

Evening: Night time Lava Viewing and Stargazing

After a long day of exploring the coast, make your way back towards the visitor center. If it’s still early, go out for a fantastic poke dinner, then come back for the night activities in the park.

Night Glow from Kīlauea Volcano

As the sky darkens, you can watch the red glow from Kīlauea Volcano or watch as molten lava flows and bubbles within Halema’uma’u Crater. These only occur when the volcanoes are actively erupting. 

 If nothing is happening, it’s just a dark mountain. But when it erupts, many guided and boat tours can take you close to the flow for an even more impressive view.

Stargazing at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

The summit of Mauna Loa at 13,678 feet is the perfect spot to stargaze due to its low light pollution and high altitude. Needless to say, this is only good on clear nights.

For the stargazing experience, the journey begins at the Mauna Loa Observatory Road, where visitors can drive to a certain point before starting the hike. You don’t need to go far before finding a nice spot to sit and gaze up.

Some people also choose to hike all the way, but the hike to the summit of Mauna Loa is challenging and only recommended for experienced hikers.  

Travel Tip!  You’d think because it’s Hawaii, it will be warm, but bring layered clothing as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset and at that elevation.

Where to Stay

You can stay near Volcano Village or inside Volcano National Park for the shortest distance. Alternatively, Hilo town, while slightly further from the park, is one of the most popular places to stay on the Big Island, with easy access to restaurants, shopping centers, and local attractions.

Best Hotels Near Volcano National Park

Best hotels in hilo, hawaii, campgrounds in volcano national park.

There are only two official campgrounds inside Volcano National Park.

Places to Visit with More Time

Other attractions within volcano.

• Kīpukapuaulu:  Dubbed as the “Bird Park,” this is a perfect hike for bird watchers.
• Kīlauea Iki Trail:  This trail takes you across a solidified lava lake, gaining an up-close view of the volcanic features.
• Devastation Trail:  This short, paved path offers a stark picture of volcanoes’ destructive power, passing through an area devastated by Kīlauea’s 1959 eruption.

Day Trips Near Volcano

You can drive the entire Big Island on a very long day trip, but here are some of the popular spots within a short driving distance from Volcano National Park:

• Rainbow Falls: Just outside Hilo, this 80 foot waterfall flows in front of a lava cave on the way to the national park,
• Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach:  This beautiful black sand beach is known for its resident sea turtles and is just an hour’s drive from Volcano.
• Akaka Falls State Park:  This state park has two stunning waterfalls, including the 442-foot Akaka Falls.
• Mauna Kea Summit:  The summit of Mauna Kea is known for its clear night skies and stargazing views above the clouds. My friends made it here while I was stuck in my mandatory pandemic hotel. They raved about the twinkling stars at the summit. But also getting stuck in a pothole from the bad roads and how it was really cold.
• Waipio Valley:  Often called the “Valley of the Kings,” these very steep cliffs may be a bit far but I think this place is a poster child of Hawaii.
• Hilo:  About 45 minutes away, Hilo is known for its local food scene and lush botanical gardens. I stayed here for about two weeks.

Is 1 Day Enough for Volcano

If you want to check off the major highlights, such as the Kīlauea Volcano, Mauna Loa, and the coast, then a full day, starting early and planned well, might be enough. The park is not that big, that you would have covered most of the attractions.

With additional days, you can take more hikes like the Devastation Trail and not have to rush around.

Best Time To Visit

Unlike many national parks where there is a clear winner in season, visitation to Volcano National Park is pretty steady year-round. With that note, Spring (March – May) and Fall (September – November) are the best times to visit Volcano National Park. The weather is just right, not too hot or cold, and the island isn’t as swamped with tourists.

Summer is undeniably beautiful with sunny skies and warm temperatures, but it’s also peak season. Winter is the rainy season, but any day there can be showers.

How to Get There

By air & car.

The nearest city to the park is Hilo, about 30 miles away, and the second closest is Kailua-Kona, roughly 96 miles away. The only two cities on the island. Both cities have airports that host domestic flights, with KOA also receiving limited international flights.

From the  Hilo International Airport,  it’s a 45-minute drive to the park. Car rental services are available at the airport.  Kona International Airport  is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from the park. Shuttle services are available, but renting a car makes things so much easier.

Public Transportation

The  Hele On Bus  operates a public bus service with limited routes, but it doesn’t actually help you to get around within the park.

Final Thoughts: Day Trip to Volcano

I promise you’ll have a blase (pun intended) on this Volcano National Park itinerary, from seeing the weird lava fields to the beautiful tropical coastline. I want to go back again next time there’s a lava glow, something I have yet to cross off my bucket list. 

And if you’re in a rush because you’re going to another destination in Hawaii, check out my other posts about the state.

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in Hawaii?

Hawaii may have been the site of a family vacation when I was twelve, but having gone back for a month as an adult is even better. If you’re looking for other places in Hawaii too, check out these other posts I have on the archipelago.

• Perfect One Day In Volcano National Park Itinerary

Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.

• HAWAII TRAVEL AND LIFESTYLE. ALOHA WITH LOVE, AMY.
• Terms & Privacy

Get Emails From Hawaii!

• Get Started
• Self-Guided GPS Audio Tours
• Book Tours & Activities
• Search for:

Travel Guides

The complete guide to visiting the hawaii volcanoes national park.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll earn a small commission if you purchase something through these links. You won't pay any extra; instead, you'll be helping Aloha With Love to thrive. Thank you! Learn more .

A visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is not just a popular activity on the Big Island of Hawaii. It’s one of the best things to do in Hawaii and you’ll be so glad to spend a day or two exploring the park in its entirety. Besides the obvious of seeing lava, you’ll want to set aside time for hikes, lava tubes, viewpoints, scenic drives, and more. There’s a lot to do!

Aloha with love, Amy

About Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is managed by the National Park Service and you can find all the information you need on the National Park Service website . The first thing you should know about this park is that there is plenty to do. In fact, the fee you’ll pay to get in is actually good for one week. So if you have the time and interest, you might want to plan your Hawaii Volcanoes National Park activities over several days. However, most visitors do tend to squeeze as much as they can into one day since there are so many more things to do on the Big Island.

Rates and hours

As of January 2020, the entrance fees for the park are:

• $30 per private, non-commercial vehicle for 7 days. Most Hawaii visitors will fall under this category with their usual car rental, as long as the vehicle holds 15 or less.
• $15 per pedestrian or bicycle for 7 days, for those hiking or biking into the park.
• $25 per motorcycle for 7 days. Since this is only $5 less than a car, you might want to consider carpooling if you’re traveling in a group to save some big bucks per person.
• $55 for the Hawaii tri-park annual pass. Valid for 12 months from the purchase date, this gives you one-year access to three of Hawaii’s national parks: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (Big Island), Haleakala National Park (Maui), Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park (Big Island).
• As a national park, there are several applicable passes and no-fee days you can use to gain entrance into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Opening hours

While Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, it’s important to remember that the ongoing eruptions, lava flow, smoke plumes, etc. can and will affect certain areas of the park. You may have limited access to certain areas and in some cases certain attractions will be completely blocked off for your safety.

Most of the time these changes are long-lasting. The best way to plan your trip and activities is to visit the NPS website for park updates and to watch local Hawaii news. Any lava flow, eruptions, or smoke plumes that could affect your health and safety is big news here in Hawaii and will be reported on.

The other thing that will put a dent into your itinerary is parking. The more popular sites will fill up fast so you should be prepared to be flexible and have some back-up destinations in mind. If you plan to spend some time at the Kilauea Visitor Center (a jumping off point for many attractions and hikes), start your day early and get there before 8 AM. There are only 125 parking spots here and with about 2 million visitors every year, this parking lot won’t have any open space from 10 AM – 2 PM.

A few other popular spots that fill up fast (especially in the afternoon) are the Kilauea Overlook, Kilauea Iki Overlook, Thurston Lava Tube (Nahuku), and the Devastation Trail. Most of these will run out of parking between 10 AM to 2 PM and you’ll be stuck either wondering what to do next or waiting around endlessly for a spot to open.

What’s the weather like?

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is vast and unlike most everywhere else on Hawaii, it’s not just “hot” here. Depending on where and when and what time of day your visiting, you can expect everything from misty fog to snow (and sunshine, too!).

• Kilauea : One of two volcanoes in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Be ready for rain, mist, and fog. You’ll be at a 4,000-foot elevation so a rain jacket and even some warm clothing is a great idea. In fact, the summit can be 12 – 15 degrees cooler than sea level.
• Mauna Loa : The second volcano in the park and the largest volcano on Earth. Reaching almost a 14,000-foot elevation, it’s going to be cold at the summit! Dress warmly and know that snow is a possible factor year-found.
• Weather changes : Keep in mind that the weather can change suddenly at both of these summits.
• Air quality : Another thing to be aware of is that the air quality is measured here due to the smoke plumes that come out of the eruption. This is important for those with heart or respiratory problems such as asthma. Infants, children, and pregnant women should also take extra caution. Even here on Oahu, we take note of any vog (volcanic fog) that blows over. Some of my family, friends, and co-workers have suffered allergic-like reactions, migraines, and generally not feeling well.

There are 13 day hikes and and 7 backcountry hikes you can do at the park, but I won’t go over all of them here. You can find out more about each hike on the NPS website including any alerts such as closures or air quality warnings for certain areas. While all the hikes are interesting and have something to offer, here are my recommended ones:

• Kilauea Iki Trail : One of the most popular hikes is the Kilauea Iki Trail. This hike takes you from the rainforest on the crater rim down into the caldera (where there’s steam coming off the ground).
• Devastation Trail : On a clear day, this is a great hike where you can see both summits of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea.
• Kipukapuauli Trail (Bird Park) : For those searching for a short hike or want to stretch your legs, this one-mile loop trail is a small oasis of forest surrounded by lava rock with a number of Hawaii’s native birds and plants to see.
• Mauna Iki Trail : The highlight of this two-mile trail are the ancient footprints you’ll see carved into the lava. It’s believed that these footprints are the remnants from soldiers running away from a Kilauea eruption.
• Crater Rim Trail : Most visitors will explore at least a small part of this trail during their visit as it is accessible from several locations.
• Thurston Lava Tube (Nahuku) : The lava tubes on the Big Island are a unique experience and I recommend going through at least one of them. There are several around the island (some run privately), but the Thurston Lava Tube is the most well-known as it’s within park premises.
• Puuloa Petroglyphs : Another really neat trail that takes you to one of the largest collections of petroglyphs in Hawaii. You’ll be hiking on lava rock and then a boardwalk once you get closer to the 23,000 petroglyphs.
• Mauna Loa : The most well-known backcountry hike is probably the long walk up Mauna Loa, the largest volcano on Earth.

Explore the Kahuku Unit

The Kahuku Unit refers to the side of Mauna Loa dedicated to what was once one of Hawaii’s biggest cattle ranches. There are several day hikes you can do here where you can see some great panoramic views and pastures.

There are two fantastic drives to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: the Crater Rim Drive and the Chain of Craters Road. Both can be done in the same day along with a hike. In fact, a popular itinerary choice is to drive both of these along with the Kilauea Iki hike in one day. All three of these can be done in one full day at the park.

About Crater Rim Drive : 11-mile drive that begins at the Kilauea Visitor Center and Kilauea Overlook. Don’t miss Wahinekapu (Steaming Bluff) and the boardwalk at Haakulamanu (Sulphur Banks).

About Chain of Craters Road : 18-mile road that takes you from the Crater Rim Drive south to the ocean. You’ll see a variety of lava flows, cinder cones, and craters on the way.

Camping and lodging

One of the coolest things to do on the Big Island is camping or staying overnight at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If you’re an outdoorsy person, camping here is pretty memorable. There are 2 campgrounds (I recommend Namakanipaio over Kulanaokuaiki just for the convenience) and you can stay up to a week. So if you have the time and interest in all of the different hikes available, it might be worth it to spend a few days here.

For those who’d rather stay at a hotel, the historic Volcano House Hotel sits on the Kilauea caldera and is highly rated.

Things to know

Getting there.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is quite a drive to get to from Kailua-Kona. The trip is about a 2.5 – 3 hour drive, so I recommend coming in from Hilo (a 45-minute drive) if you plan to only spend a day here. You can also consider camping or lodging at the park, or finding a rental in one of the small nearby towns.

It’s important to note that driving yourself is the only way to get to and explore the park. The public bus (Hele On Bus) does not come here and neither is there a shuttle service to take you from place to place.

Closures and updates

This national park is all about volcanoes, which means you’ll run into lava flows, smoke plumes, sudden weather changes, and potentially dangerous situations. The National Park Service staff are very good at making sure you do not put yourself in a bad situation by closing certain hikes, viewpoints, and points of interests as needed. Stay notified on any changes as they are closed or prohibited for a reason.

Plants and animals

On these volcanoes (and high elevations), you’ll have a chance to spot some rare plants and animals. Some of them can’t be found anywhere else in the world, which makes the nature experience here quite unique. There’s a very special ecosystem here, so it’s especially important that you leave no trace when you visit this park.

Amy Fujimoto

I grew up in Hawaii and love trying out new things to do in Hawaii. When I'm not writing about Hawaii travel, I document my Mom's recipes, hike with Daisy the waddling rescue, work on my 200-gallon aquaponics system, and dream about my future van conversion so I can do some more traveling.

I travel, explore, work and enjoy life in Hawaii. Get email updates and join me on my adventures.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Get Emails From Hawaii

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Email address  *

Your personal data will be used to support your experience throughout this website, to manage access to your account, and for other purposes described in our privacy policy .

• (808)900-6070
• 100% Refund Policy

Exploring Kilauea: Book a tour or DIY?

• December 22, 2015

by Alison H.

No visit to Hawaii is complete without a stop at the summit of Kilauea. Even when the world’s most active volcano isn’t putting on a show, gazing into its caldera and exploring the sites within Hawaii Volcanoes National National Park is an exciting day.  If you’re looking to explore active volcanoes in person and learn more about them, then Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the best place to start. But what’s the best way to explore Kilauea?

There are two ways to see Kilauea when you’re in Hawaii.

• Book a tour
• Go on your own

Guided tour or do-it-yourself?

Guided tours are fairly effortless. You’ll have a schedule, an itinerary, transportation, and sometimes even a meal and snacks all planned for you. On the other hand, if you go at it alone, you have a bit more freedom to choose and plan all these things for yourself. Freedom does, however, come with a price – especially if you don’t already know a lot about volcanoes, Kilauea, the Big Island, or have time to do enough research.

There is no right or wrong way to do it, but there are a few things you should know:

• There is no public transportation to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and there is no transportation system within the park, so you will need a vehicle to get there and to get around.
• The park is roughly 45 minutes away from Hilo and 2 hours away from Kailua-Kona or Waikoloa. And no matter which way you drive there are going to be lots of interesting things that you’ll want to stop and see along the way.
• There is only one lodge with a restaurant (Volcano House) and two small campgrounds inside the park. There is also limited lodging and a few restaurants in Volcano, a town located just outside the park boundary which is a five-minute drive from the Visitor Center.
• There is a $30 entrance fee per vehicle for a seven-day pass to the park.

If you have a rental car and time to explore, a road trip to see Kilauea can be phenomenal. But, you’ll probably want to take several days rather than trying to cram everything into one exhausting day. And you’ll need to book your lodging well in advance too. Lodging in the park and nearby Volcano is limited, pricey, and sells out quickly. Also, be advised that there aren’t many options between Volcano and Hilo (50+ miles away).

While we all love a good road trip, here are four ways that a guided tour can enhance your visit:

1. all the stops are curated .

At over 300,000 acres, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is massive. With so many potential stops – the Kilauea Visitor Center, lava tunnels, steam vents – it can be hard to see everything. If you don’t already know what you want to see you might miss out on some of the coolest attractions.

There is also the issue of time. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the southern tip of the Big Island – where Kilauea is located – is massive. There’s so much to see and do that it can be a bit overwhelming. If you have a full day to spend at the park, then it may be more doable.

But not everyone has that much time on their vacations. Most visitors want to see Kilauea without spending a whole day traveling and hiking to finally reach the volcano summit.

If you book a tour in advance, you won’t have to spend half of the day traveling to the volcano. Tours can last anywhere from 50 minutes to several hours. Regardless of which tour you choose, you can still be sure that you see everything that you want to see.

2. You’ll learn so much from a knowledgeable tour guide

One of the biggest drawbacks of touring a volcano for yourself is the lack of knowledge. Sure, you might have read a little bit about Kilauea before your trip. But there’s a lot about the history of the mountain, volcanology, and the history of the Hawaiian Islands themselves that you probably don’t know.

That’s where your tour guide comes in. Tour guides know Kilauea better than they know their grandmothers. Like you, they’re fascinated by these great mountains, and they love sharing their knowledge and experiences with others.

Though they may not be volcanologists themselves, tour guides are often natives of the Hawaiian islands and grew up learning about Kilauea. They’ve researched Kilauea and other volcanoes so you can relax and learn from them.

Because these tour guides have been running these tours for so many people, they know where to go to see all the action at the volcano. If you want to see lava rivers, they’ll know where to take you. And when the lava hits the ocean, they’ll know how to get there.

If you have any questions while on the tour, there’s a good chance your tour guide will be able to answer them for you. These guides truly care about Kilauea, and they want to teach others more about this amazing creation of nature. If you book a tour, you’ll get plenty of history that the museums and visitor centers might skim over.

3. The best views & access

Seeing pictures or movie footage of a volcano is great – if you’re not in Hawaii. If you’re vacationing in Hawaii, though, there’s only one acceptable way to view a volcano, and it’s not from a distance.

If you decide to try and tour a volcano on your own, you might never get to see it as closely as you like. You’ll first need to organize transportation to Kilauea, and if you’re staying in Hilo or Waikoloa, that’s not always easy. Your trip may become too expensive, or you may have limited time between your drop-off and pick-up times.

Of course, these are active volcanoes, and they’re extremely dangerous. You don’t want to wander off track and find yourself far too close to a lava river.

To see and understand the true impact of a volcano, you need to get the best views of it. By reserving a tour, you’re guaranteed to get a 360-degree view of the volcano from all angles. With a tour, your

A helicopter tour of Kilauea, for example, lifts you high into the air as you see the top of the volcano yourself. You’ll see the lava moving up and out as steam spew from the top.

4. Kilauea tours are just so easy and stress-free

Most visitors to Hawaii are looking for one thing on these beautiful islands: time to relax. They want to lay by the beach, take in the culture of these great islands, and see its wonders before they head back home. The more complicated it is to visit a place, the less enjoyable that place will be.

When you book a tour of Kilauea, you’re done. You won’t need to worry about anything else until it’s time to be picked up.

With a tour, you won’t have to plan out any part of your trip to Kilauea, which means you won’t have to guess which sites will be best to see. Your tour will already have that part figured out. For example, if you choose a land tour, your guide will take you to the highlights of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and show you how these sites came to be.

On a helicopter tour, you’ll see all the beauty of the park from above and get even closer to the volcano itself. Although it isn’t even guaranteed that you’ll see lava, you’ll have the best chance of seeing it from the air.

No matter which type of tour you choose, you’ll get to sit back and relax as your tour guide takes you from place to place. All you need to worry about is wearing comfy shoes and bringing plenty of sunblock.

Though it may seem exciting to tour the volcano on your own, the best way to see all that Kilauea has to offer is to book a tour. Share with us: what type of tour sounds the most intriguing to you?

  Click here to read more about our most popular Kilauea tours!

Related posts, best pit stops from kona to volcano.

by Diane L.  The two-hour drive from Kona to Volcano is one of the most beautiful drives on the Big Island. You probably already know

Volcanoes in Hawaii: A Guide for Travelers

by Suzanne G.  This might surprise you, but the United States has more active volcanoes than any other country in the world. Most are located

Big Island Volcano Tours: Which tour should you take?

by Suzanne G. A Big Island volcano tour is a must-do whenever visiting the island. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the Big Island’s main attraction

Information About the Latest Big Island Volcanic Activity

The new lava outbreak in a small area on the eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii is not affecting tourist activity. None of

Tips for Visitors to the Hawaii Volcano National Park

Even though you may feel geared up and ready for your day-long excursion through the Big Island’s Hawaii Volcano National Park, there are still some

NASA’s Study into Hawaii’s Volcanoes

For over the past 30 years, The Big Island has been experiencing the power behind Kilauea Volcano. The lengthy eruption has proven to be a

Exploring the Volcanoes of Hawaii

Back during a time when the world was still forming itself, tectonic plates came together and broke apart, causing the creation of volcanoes in the

Keeping Safe While Exploring Hawaii’s Volcanoes

Volcanoes are a living part of nature, some of them still brewing deep within the Earth and threatening to become active at any moment. The

Big Island Beaches Guide

Hapuna, Kua Bay, Green Sand, ...

Big Island Sights Guide

Kilauea, Waipio, Rainbow Falls, ...

Big Island Hiking Guide

Kilauea Iki, Muliwai, Pololu Valley, ...

Big Island Regions Guide

Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Puna, Kohala, ...

When to Visit Big Island

Learn about the best time to visit →

Big Island Travel Tips

Big Island travel tips & recommendations →

Big Island Top Picks

Explore the Big Island's Must See & Do →

All Hawaii Island Guides →

Big Island Accommodations →

Lodging by type.

• Big Island Hotels & Resorts
• Big Island B&B's and Inn's
• Big Island Vacation Rentals

Popular Reads

• Where to stay on the Big Island →
• When to visit the Big Island →
• Big Island Attractions →
• Big Island Weather →

Explore Big Island Hotels & Resorts Search Now

Big Island Activities →

Hawaii tours by type.

• Land Tours & Services
• Ocean & Water Tours
• Plane & Helicopter Tours
• Big Island Itineraries

Popular Big Island Activities...

• Big Island Hiking Tours →
• Big Island Helicopter Tours →
• Big Island Stargazing Tours →
• Big Island Horseback Tours →

Explore Big Island Tours Search Now

Hawaii Eruption Information

Big island lava viewing guide - where is the lava located in hawaii volcanoes national park.

2024 Hawaii Visitor Guides

Discount Hawaii Car Rentals

Hawaii Island Volcanoes (click to view entire chain)

Where is the Lava?

Hawaii eruption tracker & updates, kilauea volcano is not currently erupting, last updated:  march 2, 2024.

If you're heading to Hawaii's Big Island, then one of the first questions you may have is, 'Where is the lava? I want to see lava! Wait, or is it magma?' First, yes, typically, it's lava you're looking for - lava is anything that's erupted from the volcano (to the surface), and it comes in two flavors, Pahoehoe and A`a. You can read more about the two lava types on our  Hawaii Geology  page. If it's still within the volcano, it's known as magma.

The top photo above is a USGS photo of the previous Kilauea Eruption.

Kilauea Eruption Updates

Last eruption activity: september 2023, lava had returned to halemaumau crater in hvnp.

• See our ' What's Happening on Kilauea Now ' section for current information on the Kilauea eruption.

— article continued below —

2024 Big Island Visitor Guides

Visiting the Big Island of Hawaii soon? Be sure to grab your copy of one of our updated Big Island Visitor Guides .

~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~

Big Island Lava Flow

Locating the Lava Flows

Now, to answer the question of ' where .' Well, the answer to that question depends on the mood of Pele (the Hawaiian Volcano Goddess). And Madame Pele is very unpredictable.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park  is open 24 hours a day, so your chance to see glowing lava (from near or far) is pretty good when the volcano is actively erupting (it's periodically erupting only at the summit in Halemaumau currently), especially when it's dark. Just look for the red glow. As always, the Park Rangers at the entry station are your best guide to current conditions - we advise all visitors to check in with them before exploring the park. 

Ultimately, in our opinion, even if you don't get to see any flowing lava in person, which you might not at times, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Big Island are well worth the time. 

September 2023 Eruption - USGS YouTube

September 2023 Night Eruption - USGS YouTube

Kilauea & Volcanoes National Park Lava Viewing Guide

• What's Happening Now at Kilauea
• September 2023 Eruption
• June 2023 Eruption
• January - March 2023 Eruption
• 2021-2022 Eruption Details
• 2020-2021 Eruption Summary
• 2019 Lava Lake Development
• 2018 Eruption Summary
• Circa 2018 Noteworthy Eruptions
• Mauna Loa Eruption Updates  - after 38 years, Mauna Loa erupted in late 2022
• Hike to the lava yourself
• Or check our recommendations for Guided Kilauea Tours
• Helicopter tours over the volcano
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Maps

Separately, don't forget to review our Hawaii Safety Guide for the Volcano Area (and other important Hawaii safety tips).

Kilauea Summit Eruption

What's Happening Now at Kilauea?

Periodic kilauea eruption; volcano is not currently active.

Kilauea volcano, on the Big Island of Hawai i, is NOT currently erupting at its summit. Current conditions are additionally included below.

Kilauea Eruption Timeline

The eruption that began at the Kilauea summit on September 10, 2023, has ended. Lava supply to the vents on the downdropped block in Kilauea's summit caldera ceased on September 16, 2023, based on visual and geophysical observations.

The last three eruptions which previously ended in June 2023, March 2023, and in early December 2022 respectively, were each similar to the preceding recent Kilauea eruption, which was also confined to Halema'uma'u crater and generated a lava lake; from December 2020 to May 2021.  More information and a timeline of Kilauea's historical events   (including the current eruption, when applicable) are included below.

Current Kilauea Conditions Summary *

At this time, Kilauea is no longer erupting. Lava supply to the Halemaʻumaʻu lava lake paused on September 16, 2023, based on lava lake levels and the behavior of the crater floor. Kilauea could begin erupting again at any time, however.

HVO continues to closely monitor Kilauea for signs of renewed activity. Should volcanic activity change significantly a new Volcanic Activity Notice will be issued. 

Activity Summary: Current conditions, updated daily, can be found on the USGS site .

*Activity Summary, Summit Observations, and Lava Lake Observations courtesy of the USGS and/or  NPS

Halemaumau as seen from Keanakako'i Overlook in late August 2022

Follow HVNP for additional updates

This situation is rapidly evolving and the Hawaii Volcanoes Observatory will continue to issue statements when more information is available to the public. For now, you can receive ongoing eruption updates by following the social media accounts of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park ( Facebook ,  Instagram , and Twitter ).

• View the live cameras located at the Kilauea summit.
• Additional updates can be found on the Hawaii Volcanoes National park website .
• Animated GIF of the latest webcam footage from the current eruption

Additional video footage and imagery, of the current eruption at Halemaumau Crater in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, can be found below.

Big Island Volcano Tour Suggestions

Noteworthy events at kilauea volcano, click any link below to learn more....

• September 2023 Eruption - Fountains of lava return to the summit crater
• June 2023 Eruption - Lava returned to Halemaumau crater
• January - March 2023  Eruption - Eruption activity resumed within Halemaumau
• 2021-2022 Eruption - additional summit activity in Halemaumau
• 2020-2021 Eruption - Lava returned to Halemaumau
• 2019 Eruption  -  Lava Lake Developed in Halemaumau Crater
• 2018 Eruption  - Significant event in the East Rift Zone
• Previous Historic Eruptions

This section will be updated accordingly.

Eruption temporarily resumes in Halemaumau Crater

September 2023 eruption.

At approximately 3:15 p.m. HST on September 10, 2023, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory observed eruptive activity in Kilauea summit webcam images and from field reports indicating that an eruption has commenced within Halemaʻumaʻu crater and on the down-dropped block to the east in Kīlauea's summit caldera, within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.  The eruption was preceded by a period of strong seismicity and rapid uplift of the summit.

We will continue to post updates above , on this page as eruption(s) continue.

Eruption resumes again in Halemaumau Crater

June 2023 eruption.

At approximately 4:44 a.m. HST on June 7, 2023, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory detected glow in Kilauea summit webcam images indicating that an eruption had commenced within Halema'uma'u crater in Kilauea's summit caldera, within Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.

This summit eruption event at Kīlauea volcano ended on June 19, 2023.

Kilauea June 2023 Eruption Photos

USGS Photo of Eruption on June 7, 2023

Eruption on June 7, 2023 - USGS

Eruption resumes in Halemaumau Crater

January 2023 - march 2023 eruption.

Kilauea volcano was previously erupting. At approximately 4:34 p.m. HST on January 5, 2023, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory detected a glow in Kilauea's  summit webcam images, indicating that the eruption had resumed within Halemaʻumaʻu crater in Kilauea's summit caldera, within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.

This eruption concluded on March 7, 2023 .

Kilauea Early 2023 Eruption Photos

Halemaumau Crater - Jan 6, 2023 at Sunrise :: Credit USGS

Lava Fountains during January 2023 Eruption :: Credit USGS

Eruption in January 2023 - Credit: USGS

Lava fills crater floor - Credit: USGS

Halemaumau in October 2021

More activity in Halemaumau Crater

September 2021 - december 2022 eruption.

The 2021-2022 eruption within Halemaumau Crater started about 20 minutes after 3 p.m. Wednesday - September 29, 2021; all lava was confined within the crater. The eruption came after a day of increased earthquake activity at the volcano and summit.

The eruption from September 2021 - December 2022 was confined to Halemaumau crater, within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.  As of December 9, 2022, Kilauea was no longer erupting. Lava supply to the Halemaʻumaʻu lava lake ceased based on lava lake levels and the behavior of the crater floor.

At the time of the last eruption, HVO did not see any indication of activity migrating elsewhere on Kilauea volcano  and expects the eruption to remain confined to the summit region.

Kilauea summit eruptions over the past 200 years have lasted from less than a day to more than a decade.

The eruption slowed in early December 2022, coinciding, but likely unrelated to, the eruption of neighboring Mauna Loa. As of approximately December 9, 2022, Kilauea was no longer erupting.

View from the Keanakako'i Overlook in late 2021. Credit: NPS Photo/J.Wei

Eruption in Halemaumau Crater (Credit: USGS)

Two of the many spattering sources within Halemaumau (Credit: USGS)

September 29th 2021 Eruption at Halemaumau Crater (Credit: USGS)

Lava lake statistics through May 7, 2021 (Click for full size) - via USGS

Lava returns to Halemaumau Crater

December 2020 - may 2021 eruption.

After the huge changes that occurred with the 2018 eruption and subsequent summit collapse, some had speculated that Kilauea would not erupt for a significant period of time. Pele had other plans, however.

At approximately 9:30 p.m. HST on Sunday - December 20, 2020, the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) detected a new glow within the Halemaumau crater at the summit of Kilauea Volcano.

Within Halemaumau, an eruption had commenced at Kilauea's summit caldera. Previously, as noted below the caldera had been filling with a green-ish water lake , but that quickly disappeared, as lava has once again made an appearance inside of the crater. Within one week, what had been a history-making lake of water was replaced by a nearly 600-foot deep lake of molten lava.

• Animated GIF of eruption first occurring on December 20, 2020

A magnitude 4.4 earthquake additionally hit about an hour after the volcano began erupting. By the morning of 12/21/20, two of the three initial fissure vents on the wall of the Halemaumau crater were feeding a growing lava lake.

The eruption paused in late May 2021, after several months of activity in the Halemaumau crater.

2020-2021 Eruption Images

Halemaumau crater at kilauea volcano.

Credit: USGS/M. Patrick

Credit: NPS/A. LaValle

Credit: NPS/J. Wei

Kilauea's Lava Lake - Credit: USGS

Development of Water Lake in 2019

On August 1, 2019, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) scientists confirmed a growing pond of water in the recently enlarged Halemumau crater. Initially, it appeared as small, separate turquoise ponds, but over time, the small ponds united and began to grow dramatically. For a period of time, the depth of the growing lake was increasing several inches per day. In the space of just over one year's time, a persistent lake of lava had vanished in a dramatic collapse, only to be replaced by the first lake of water to be recorded at Kilauea in modern history. Over the course of its relatively short lifespan, the lake grew to be approximately 160 feet (49 m) deep. That's taller than a 10-story building, for reference. The lake also changed color due to the precipitation of iron-sulfate minerals and SO2 being dissolved into the water.

2018 East Rift Zone Eruption

Kilauea caldera has undergone a tremendous amount of change over the last decade, and prior to the eruption in December 2020, had not been very active since 2018. See the maps immediately below to get an idea of how volatile the years between 2009 and 2018 were at the park or explore this geo-narrative by the USGS about the 2018 eruption.

In the first days of May 2018, the lava lake that had existed in Halemaumau crater for almost a decade began to drain away. Magma moved from the summit of Kilauea to the Lower East Rift Zone, marked by a series of earthquakes. On May 3rd, the first fissures opened up in the subdivision of Leilani Estates and the massive eruption of 2018 began to unfold in lower Puna. With less magma left to support the summit, the Halemaumau crater began to collapse. Every 28 hours, on average, the ground within the summit caldera of Kilauea sank with dramatic collapse events. By the end of the 2018 eruption, the Halemaumau crater had sunk by 1,600 feet (488m), and its diameter more than doubled.

Halemaumau Crater Changes from 2009 to 2018. Provided by the USGS.

2018 Eruption - Source: USGS

Activity circa 2018 East Rift Zone Eruption

Prior to 2018, you could just as easily have witnessed lava flows chewing on  Chain of Craters Road  as you could view a steam plume from afar. Kilauea is a living, breathing volcano with a mind of its own.

Kilauea's oldest lava flows are dated between 210,000 and 280,000 years ago. Those flows are considered generally young, geologically speaking, for an active volcano.

For the last one thousand years, Kilauea's ongoing eruptions have dramatically shaped the southeast portion of the Big Island of Hawaii. 

The most recent 100 years of volcanic activity at Kilauea can be divided into seven distinct eruptions.

Summaries are provided below from the USGS website:

• May 1924 explosive eruption
• 1955 Lower East Rift Zone Eruption
• 1959 eruption of the Kilauea Iki
• 1960 Kapoho eruption
• 1969-1974 Mauna Ulu Eruption  
• 2008-2018 Summit Eruption & Lava Lake
• 1983-2018 Pu'u 'O'o Eruption

Hiking to Lava

Lava viewing guide.

Check THIS SITE  for updates on lava flows and Kilauea activity. We've also included some maps below to generally help provide you an overview of the park and where the lava might be located during your visit. Just remember, this is an active living and breathing volcano and things regularly change, the maps are always out of date for that reason to some extent.

If the flows have recently been near the surface within the Park and IF it's safe to access (check with the Rangers), it's pretty easy to locate the lava yourself - so don't feel like you HAVE to join a tour to experience a lava flow. Before heading out, be sure you've prepared accordingly - dress appropriately with the right footwear for your adventure; be sure to keep water with you at all times, it can be easy to get dehydrated on the lava fields. Sunscreen is also your best friend on this part of the island.

As always, remember that lava flows outside the Park's boundary are on private property and you should not explore these locations without a guide who has permission to properly access the property.

Kilauea Volcano Tours

Our recommendation for Kilauea & lava tours is to contact Scott and Becky at The Volcano Van . They offer amazing tours of Kilauea, including several tours that depart from Kona.

View Lava from Above

Helicopter Volcano Tours

Another great option is to take a helicopter tour over Pu`u O`o for a look into the bowels of the earth. While that too could change tomorrow, as lava has a mind of its own - a helicopter tour is your BEST opportunity to see lava.

Our recommendation for helicopters tours is to fly with Safari Helicopters. They have some amazing tours over the volcano that are perfect for experiecing Kilauea from above.

Mauna Loa 2022 Eruption

Mauna Loa Eruption

Mauna loa eruption updates, last activity: november 2022 - december 2022, after 38 years, mauna loa briefly erupted.

• Mauna Loa , the world's largest volcano, which had been rumbling since mid-September 2022,  erupted from late November until mid-December 2022 .
• Check out some great USGS photos of the 2022 Mauna Loa Eruption
• View the USGS eruption map for a visualization of the eruption location
• See our ' What's Happening on Mauna Loa ' section below for current information.

What happened?

The Mauna Loa volcano, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, recently erupted on Sunday - November 27, 2022 . The eruption, which was the first in nearly 40 years, was relatively small and caused no damage to nearby communities or infrastructure. The eruption was preceded by several weeks of increasing seismic activity, as well as ground deformation and elevated sulfur dioxide emissions. The HVO had placed the volcano on "watch" status shortly before the eruption, indicating an eruption was likely. As of December 11, 2022, the eruption has concluded .

As noted above, the eruption was relatively small, and no evacuations were necessary. No major highways were damaged, though initial concerns were that Saddle Road (Daniel K. Inouye Highway) might be impacted. Fortunately, it never was impacted by the lava flows. The lava flow was not close enough to any populated areas or infrastructure to cause any damage.

The recent eruption is a reminder of the power and unpredictability of volcanoes. Mauna Loa is one of five active/dormant volcanoes in the Hawaiian Islands and is the largest active volcano on Earth.

Latest Mauna Loa Developments

Updates provided by the usgs.

Current daily updates on the status of the Mauna Loa Eruption can be found on the USGS website .

See the USGS eruption map  to visualize the current eruption location, or view these incredible USGS photos of the recent Mauna Loa eruption .

Mauna Loa Eruption Maps

USGS Mauna Loa eruption map

Mauna Loa Eruption Photos

Lava channel on Dec 4th - USGS

Mauna Loa Fissure 3 - Dec 4th - USGS

Closeup View of Fissure 3 Mauna Loa - December 1st. Credit: USGS

Fissure 3 on Mauna Loa's Northeast Rift Zone - December 1st. Credit: USGS

Mauna Loa eruption on Nov. 30th - Credit: USGS

Mauna Loa Lava Fountains - USGS

Northeast Rift Zone Eruption - USGS

Mauna Loa Eruption - USGS

Mauna Loa Lava Fountaining - USGS

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Overview Maps

 ~ click to enlarge any map ~.

Crater Rim Drive (before the 2008-2018 summit eruption)

HVNP Overview (showing lava flows through 2010)

2018 Lava Flow in Puna

Napau Crater Trail

Hawaii Eruption Information Photo Gallery

You may also be interested in...

Recommended big island tours, terms of use & disclosures.

This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms , conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures . For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. Mahalo!

Download our Hawaii Map Packet

Includes most major attractions, all major routes, airports, and a chart with estimated driving times for each respective island..

Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included.

Download your copy of our... 2024 Hawaii Travel Guide

Hawaii-Guide.com has been featured in...

Hawaii Visitor Information...

Try out our new AI Powered Search & Chatbot →

Plus & Premium Benefits

Donate and remove ALL the ads

Mahalo for your support!

By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms . Mahalo!

Hawaii Volcanoes at Night: Best Lava Glow and Starry Skies

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on September 25, 2023

One of the highlights of visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is experiencing the lava glow at night. But how does a normal person without fancy equipment photograph it? Well, we’ve got the answers for how to capture the lava glow and how to have the best experience at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at night! Remember, before we even get into this, that Hawaii lava activity can vary, but we’ll help you know what’s erupting on the Big Island.

Be sure to check out our guide to Hawaii Volcanoes NP as well, because we have ideas for hiking, viewpoints and enjoying the scenic drives in the National Park too. This park is great for every age and interest, so be sure to enjoy it to the fullest! If you have any questions about seeing the lava glow and exploring the park at night, visiting the Kīlauea Volcano or want to make your own suggestions, please leave a comment or send us a note . We’re always happy to share more!

Why Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at Night?

Most of the beauty of the Big Island of Hawaii is thought of to be along the beaches and hiking at waterfalls, but Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at night is remarkable. It’s truly a unique experience, both as a Hawaiian activity and a National Park sight to see. Lava flowing and glowing from the Kīlauea volcano under a perfect night sky: it’s a one of a kind experience.

Don’t’ want to plan it all yourself? Book a guided HVNP nighttime tour!

Do I need a National Park Pass to visit Hawaii Volcanoes NP at Night?

Depending on what time you arrive at Hawaiian Volcanoes for nighttime things to do, you may need a National Parks pass or to pay the entry fee. The toll booth and visitor center are manned until the early night hours and you will be required to pay the entrance fee. If you’re visiting after 9:00 pm chances are the toll booths have closed, but that’s not a guarantee, especially if there is a lot of lava flowing and many people are visiting for nighttime lava viewing.

Get your National Parks Pass here!

Tip: if you’re not sure what’s erupting right now or where to see lava in Hawaii, you can check with the National Park Service before you even drive up the volcano. They publish activity daily, including where it’s best to see Hawaii lava!

Where to Go in Hawaii Volcanoes NP in the Dark

Of course it goes without saying that not every site you might visit in the daytime is going to be optimal at night. The lava flowing from the Kilauea Volcano (and rarely Mauna Loa) is not visible everywhere, and not even every viewpoint you’d visit during the day for geothermal activity is good at night. Here are our picks for where to go in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see lava glow, ordered by how WE have approached it and would approach seeing lava at night again.

• Start at the Kilauea Visitors Center to check in with Park Rangers and get any fresh reports of extra lava activity or closures (it’s a very seismically active area)
• Visit Volcano House / The Rim Restaurant for a meal or drink and to get the vibe of what the lava glow is doing during your visit. This is also YOUR FIRST view of the lava glow and the best way to start you visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at night
• Head north on Crater Rim Drive to the end of the road at Uēkahuna Overlook. This is the furthest point from civilization lights on Crater Rim Drive.
• Park at Kīlauea Overlook (visitors center is closed, 2022) and walk the dimly lit Rim Trail to the various viewpoints, getting slightly different looks into the Kilauea crater.
• Continue onto the big lava glow and flow finale: Keanakako’i Overlook. Park at the Devastation Trail parking area. This is a one mile walk in the dark… More information below.

What Hawaii Volcano Eruption is Best for Lava?

So where is the best Hawaii volcano eruption at night? Well, Kīlauea is the most commonly erupting and the easiest to access, but from time to time (2022 for example), Mauna Loa may erupt. The Kīlauea Volcano is the best Hawaii lava to see because there are so many viewpoint and it’s pretty consistent, but if Mauna Loa starts erupting again, you can head up the Saddle Road to see potential flows. Lava in Hawaii varies in flow and location, but 99% of the time it’ll be at Kīlauea.

Where is the Best Lava Glow at the Kīlauea Crater?

Undoubtedly, the best place to see nighttime lava glow in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is at the Keanakako’i Overlook. This area is at the end of the now closed portion of Crater Rim Drive. Seismic activity closed the road and now it’s been turned into a pedestrian walkway to the overlook. This is the closest that non-geologists, non-rangers can go to see the lava.

You can visit Keanakako’i Overlook during the daytime as well as at night, but in the day the glow will now be as strong. It is still a very direct view of the currently most active part of the Kilauea crater lava lake, but sunlight hides the amazing red glow.

TIP: check the USGS website for current eruption information, including flow direction, which will give you a good idea about the best places to see lava glow at night in Hawaii Volcanoes NP.

Should I Hike to the Kamokuna Flow to Sea?

If you have the time and energy, hiking the Kamokuna Flow to Sea trail is an unusual adventure. This is NOT an accessible thing to do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but it’s a bucket list activity for sure. This trail starts at the Holei Sea Arch parking area at the end of the Chain of Craters Road and it leads to where the lava flow meets the sea.

But here’s the scoop: molten lava is not perpetually flowing here. While historically this is THE place to watch the red hot lava flow into the ocean, ever expanding the Big Island of Hawaii, it is not always active. There needs to be a major volcanic event happening to generate enough flowing lava to make it to the Kamokuna Flow to Sea area.

Note: as of September 2023 the Kamokuna Flow to Sea is not experiencing a lave flow making it all the way to the ocean. While this would be amazing to see if you’re visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at night, it’s very rare in general, let alone a good nighttime hike.

Here’s a great article about the hike, what to expect and some how to plan for the hike.

Photographing Lava Glow

So how do you actually photograph the lava glow as it flows at night in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park? Great question. The Kīlauea Volcano can really put on a show sometimes, but unless you’re ready and patient, you might not get the best photos of lava.

The biggest thing to remember as you visit at night and try to capture photos is that your eyes are collecting the memory and full experience of what you’re doing. There is much more to being in the National Park at night than the photos you’ll walk away with, but I totally get it that getting good pics is a goal. With that, here’s how you can do it (and hopefully meet your glowing lava goals!).

Tips for the Best Lava Pictures

I love taking pictures at night. We live in St Augustine, Florida and have a beautiful historic downtown and the Castillo de San Marcos , both which are awesome to photograph at night. With such great, readily available subjects, I get to practice nighttime photography often. Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at night allowed me the opportunity to test all of the nighttime photography skills I’ve been working on.

To start, be sure that you have a tripod to set up your camera. No matter how still you think you hold yourself, a tripod with 99 out of 100 times prove to be more stable and provide the best photography situation. If you are using a phone, either a tripod or a stable phone case with a built in stand should be sufficient.

Once you’re set up, try a few different settings on your camera. For the glow and how it illuminates the area around the crater, a really long exposure, such as an astrophotography setting, is good. This will capture the details of the many layers of cliffs around the Kilauea crater as well as the glow on the rising steam. Depending on your camera (or phone) you will most likely also capture starlight adding an extra beautiful element to your photos.

For the lava itself, a shorter exposure that can capture a lot of light quickly is better. Try a few things! I found that when at the Keanakako’i Overlook where the flowing Hawaii lava itself is the most visible, the shorter exposures gave MUCH BETTER definition of the lava streams, while the very long astrophotography created images capturing the flow area more. Find what you like!

Tip: after you’ve taken a few nighttime lava glow photographs, REVIEW THEM. Look and see which techniques are creating the better images and see what happens when you change your zoom or exposure settings.

If you’re photographing the Kīlauea Volcano and lava flowing at night here are the basic concepts for the best nighttime lava pictures:

• Be steady, using a tripod for the best, most clear photos
• Longer exposure shows better glow on the steam clouds, but blurry lava lines
• Shorter exposure is best for zoomed in photos capturing only the Hawaii lava flowing

Like I said, review the photos you’ve got after you’ve taken a few and you’ll be able to see the difference in technique and how it capture’s Kīlauea’s lava at night.

Night Sky Photography in Hawaii Volcanoes NP

The other wonderful bonus is the night sky over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. With hardly any light pollution and very little humidity in the air, the stars over the Big Island of Hawaii are really clear and vibrant. Between catching a bit of lava glow at the bottom of your images or including the silhouettes of the volcanic forest, you can photograph very unusual night sky images.

Again, a tripod is your best friend for photography at night in Hawaii Volcanoes NP. If you would like to specifically get the stars but NOT the lava glow, there are two ideal places to do so:

• The tree-lined road you walk on to the Keanakako’i Overlook
• Any one of the pull-outs along the Chain of Craters Road, all the way down to the Holei Sea Arch.

There are no street lights or structures anywhere in these two areas and there is plenty of space to set up a tripod and photograph the night away.

What to Bring into Hawaii Volcanoes NP at Night

I think the most important thing to bring into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at night is warm clothing. It gets so very cold up on the volcano and the wind picks up quite a bit at night. Even though it’s Hawaii, you’re pretty high up and you’re out in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, so yeah, it gets cold. We wore sweatshirts, coats, hoods and hats for visiting Hawaii Volcanoes NP at night and were still cold.

Other things to bring, I feel like we already addressed, are a tripod and your camera or phone. You do not need to bring flashlights and headlamps into the park, as they are simply disruptive to other visitors, create light pollution and ruin other people’s experience. If you are concerned about walking in the dark, a very dim light is all that you’ll need and it ONLY needs to be shown directly on the path you’re walking.

What is the Best Non-Photographer Gear for Nighttime at Hawaii Volcanoes?

If you are trying to decide on the best way to get good pictures of lava glow at night in Hawaii Volcanoes NP, but you don’t want to invest in a crazy professional mirrorless camera, I have a sassy and very much justified and accurate suggestion: the Google Pixel, and specifically the Google Pixel 6 Pro. This is the best camera phone camera on the market (yes, it’s better than the iPhone 12) both for standard daytime photos and for sure nighttime photography.

We brought several cameras into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the only ones that rendered usable pictures were the Pixel 6 Pro and the GoPro Hero 11 Black. Of these two, the Pixel still outperformed the GoPro Hero 11. The Night Sight setting on the Pixel was PERFECT for capturing lava streams, and the Astrophotography setting (part of Night Sight) did a phenomenal job capturing the lava glow with starlight.

The GoPro Hero 11 Black did fine, but off all the images and video we took, very few were usable in comparison to what we got from the Pixel. The GoPro starry night setting was the most effective option with the Hero and it just didn’t do the lava glow / flow justice. (pictured below)

Best Way to Make a Video of Lava Glow

It’s very difficult to get good video footage of the glowing, flowing lava, but there are a few ways to do it. If you are using a mirrorless or standard DSLR camera, set it up on a VERY stable tripod that will not shake in the wind, focus on your subject (the lava flow) and then start recording. Do not try to take panning shots unless you’re using a professional video camera with the right capabilities, otherwise you’ll just be wasting your time for a low quality video.

For regular people like you and I, what I found works best for creating a lava video is to take the individual images and collate them into a slideshow in sequence of the steam progress or changing flow. With my Google Pixel, it actually creates a short 1 second video of each Astrophotography capture, which when put together make a wonderful video. See below!

Where to Stay for Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes at Night

It’s easiest to plan a trip into the National Park if you’re staying in Hilo, but you can add it to your trip if you’re staying on the Kona Coast also. Keep in mind that the drive out of the park and back to your home base will be in the dark on winding roads, so plan appropriately. The beautiful sights of the Kona Coast and south shore aren’t visible at night and it’s a long two hour drive back to Kailua-Kona, so staying in Hilo is highly recommended.

We did our first visit to the National Park on our way from the Club Wyndham Kona Hawaiian in Kailua-Kona (west coast) to Hilo (east coast). When we visited the park at night, it was an easy drive (40 minutes) from our Hilo hotel, the SCP Hilo , to our first stop.

Check out our Hilo Travel Guide!

Staying at Volcano House National Park Lodge

If you can swing it and score a reservation, staying at Volcano House within the park is the most ideal option for enjoying Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at night. The lodge itself is located on the rim of the Kilauea crater, so stepping outside and taking in the lava glow from the property is so easy and such a unique stay.

When considering a stay at Volcano House, know that there are either Standard or Crater View rooms. Just as their description sounds, one faces the crate with the lava and one doesn’t. If you want to be able to see it from your room, book accordingly.

Clearly visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at night is awesome and totally worth braving the cold during a trip to the Big Island. While it’s not always a perfectly clear night around the Kilauea crater, if you visit and there are clouds or too much steam, just be patient and let it pass. You’ll be so glad you persevered and experienced the magic of the lava glow.

If you have any questions or additional thoughts on visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at night, please leave a comment or send us a note . Happy traveling!

These Are The Best National Parks You Can Visit In Europe

K nown for its iconic landmarks, cultural heritage, and scenic wilderness spaces, Europe steadily attracts millions of tourists every year. Tourists who want to explore the great outdoors in Europe must look no further than the continent's national parks. Europe is home to hundreds of national parks, each of which offers beautiful views of pristine landscapes, towering hills, and sun-soaked lakes.

Each European national park boasts unique features and beautiful natural attractions, offering a hive of outdoor recreational activities and must-try bucket list experiences in Europe that tourists can enjoy all year long. From Göreme National Park to Belluno Dolomites National Park, this diverse continent has something for every tourist. Here are some of the best European national parks worth visiting.

Göreme National Park, Turkey

Göreme National Park is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in the town of Göreme. With gorgeous pillars, among other astonishing geological formations, it's quite clear that Goreme National Park is Cappadocia's most beautiful landscape .

Visitors can hike any of the scenic trails at the park, enjoying pleasant views of carved caves and hoodoos rock formations, as well as the iconic volcano, Mount Hasan. With its surreal representation of nature, Göreme National Park is a tourist attraction that should not be missed when in Turkey.

Related: 10 Fun Things To Do In Goreme

Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

Situated on the southeastern edge of Iceland, Vatnajökull National Park is one of Europe's best national parks and is so large it accounts for 14% of Iceland's total landmass.

From the park's high peaks, tourists can enjoy magnificent views of surrounding rivers, volcanos, and glaciers, all of which create a surreal atmosphere that nature lovers can't get enough of. Vatnajökull National Park is known for its ice caves that form every winter. Tourists who are feeling very adventurous can disappear into these cold traps on a guided tour.

Teide National Park, Spain

When in Spain, Teide National Park is a must-visit recreational haven. Featuring the Pico Viejo volcano, Teide National Park is hard to miss, thanks to its otherworldly landscapes . The volcano boasts an elevation of over 3,715 meters above sea level, earning it recognition as the highest peak in Spain.

Spanning approximately 47,000 acres, Teide National Park is one of the largest and oldest parks in Tenerife, in the Canary Islands. But its age only adds to its popularity, making it one of the most visited tourist destinations as well.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, Plitvice Lakes National Park is nestled between Zagreb and Zadar, where it earns massive recognition for its jaw-dropping beauty. While this park is open to adventurers all year round, summer is a great time to enjoy scenic views of the park under star-lit skies, as the park has longer opening hours at this time of the year.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in Europe and home to 16 stunning lakes and a series of waterfalls, one of which is Veliki Slap, Croatia's oldest and most stunning waterfall.

Related: Visitors Can't Swim In Plitvice Lakes, But The Surrounding National Park Is Just As Breathtaking

Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

While most of Durmitor National Park 's popularity stems from its natural beauty, the park is also popular for its grandiosity. Boasting an area of 79,000 acres, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest national park in Montenegro.

There is no shortage of things to do in this stunning park, as it offers an abundance of opportunities for hiking, skiing, swimming, and even camping. Considering the size of the Durmitor National Park, it would take at least two days for the adventurous tourist to fully explore its natural wonders.

Sarek National Park, Sweden

Sarek National Park is an adventurer's playground and has been dubbed Europe's Last True Wilderness Area. This park is located in Norrbotten County, Sweden, where it adjoins two other parks—Stora Sjöfallet and Padjelanta. The park is home to Sarektjåkkå, Sweden's second-highest mountain.

This mountain, like many others in Sarek National Park, is seldom hiked, due to the long trek it involves. Only the most adventurous hikers dare to climb to the summit of this mountain and enjoy the best views of the park's natural jewels.

Triglav National Park, Slovenia

Triglav National Park is a top hiking destination and a stunning mountain haven in Europe. The park is reputed as Slovenia's largest protected natural site and is therefore one of the country's most iconic landmarks. Visitors are rewarded with glorious views of the stunning Julian Alps mountain range—the Adirondacks of Slovenia.

Tourists who want to enjoy scenic views of the park without hiking to the summit of the park's towering mountains will be thrilled to drive along the Vršič Pass, a spectacular high mountain pass along the Julian Alps mountain range.

Écrins National Park, France

When tourists want to take a break from France's bustling cities, Écrins National Park is a destination worth visiting, as it's one of the best national parks Europe has in store for adventurous folks. Known for its cool atmosphere, deep valleys, and abundance of natural resources, Écrins National Park is not only one of the best in France but in the rest of Europe as well.

This protected natural site is an iconic landmark that attracts over 800,000 tourists every year. Tourists can visit the gorgeous small towns surrounding the park to learn about the French cultural heritage. Écrins National Park is a park so stunning, tourists can't resist its charm.

Lake District National Park, England

Lake District National Park is the largest national park in England and is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled in the northwestern region of England, this national park is so beautiful that even avid travelers are left in awe.

From the summit of the high peaks at the park, tourists can take in scenic sights of serene lakes and lush valleys while enjoying the crisp mountain air. The park, one of the most beautiful national parks Europe has to offer (not just the United Kingdom, of course) is home to England's largest lake, Lake Windermere, so lovers of boating and watersports are in luck when they visit the Lake District .

Related: Views Of The Dolomites: These Mountain Towns Offer The Best All Year-Round

Belluno Dolomites National Park, Italy

The beauty of Belluno Dolomites National Park spills beyond the borders of Italy, making it one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Europe. This gorgeous park is situated in northern Italy, where it is locally known as Parco Nazionale Delle Dolomiti Bellunesi.

The park is known for its mountainous beauty and an exciting range of outdoor activities for every tourist. While at the park, adventurers can hike any of the many scenic hiking trails in the Dolomites that offer breathtaking views of the mountains and perfect opportunities for wildlife encounters.

Wildflower season is here at Pinnacles National Park: What to know before you go

It’s the prime time of year to visit Pinnacles National Park in California.

“Pinnacles has a stunning wildflower bloom that occurs between February and June, courtesy of the greatest bee species diversity density on the planet,” explained Christopher Symons, West lead ranger and volunteer coordinator at the park. “Over 500 species of bees reside in the small boundary of Pinnacles National Park.”

Spring visitors are treated to vibrant blossoms in nearly every color of the rainbow.

"In April, most of the March-blooming species are still blossoming, and such species as Johnny-jump-ups, virgin's bower, gilia, suncups, chia, black sage, pitcher sage, larkspur, and bush lupine have joined the spectacular display," according to the park's website.

But spring isn’t the only time visitors can enjoy the park. Here’s what travelers should know about the latest national park in USA TODAY’s yearlong series :

Why is Pinnacles National Park famous?

Pinnacles is known for its namesake rock spires , wildflowers and wildlife, particularly California condors .

“They were a bird that was on the brink of extinction,” said Richard Moorer, the park’s manager of Interpretation and Visitor Services.

According to the National Park Service, as few as 22 California condors were left by the early 1980s, but collaborative conservation efforts have boosted the still critically endangered species’ numbers. Pinnacles National Park is one place where captive-bred California condors are released into the wild. 

“Wildlife being wildlife, I hate to guarantee that you're going to see anything in particular,” but Moorer said, “Your chance of seeing a condor here at Pinnacles is exceptionally good.”

The park’s caves are also popular. 

“One of the largest explorable talus cave systems in the United States is here at Pinnacles,” Symons said. “Visitors wanting to experience this should know conditions are rugged.”

The park’s stargazing opportunities are less famous but nonetheless notable. They are spotlighted in Star Parties over the summer.

“We have a really nice night sky here at Pinnacles,” Moorer said.

What is the closest city to Pinnacles National Park?

The city of Hollister is closest to the east side of the park. Soledad is closest to the west.

“The two halves don’t connect and offer compelling but separate trip options,” said Symons. “The east has the campground and the most photogenic part of the park, the Bear Gulch Reservoir , while the west is day-use only and has the best spot for sunsets and moonrises on the lesser known but fantastically gorgeous Prewett Point Trail .”

The closest major airport is San José Mineta International Airport. San Jose, Santa Cruz and Monterey are all less than 1 ½ hours away by car from Pinnacles.

How much does it cost to go to the Pinnacles?

There is a $30 entry fee for private vehicles at the park. 

Can I drive through Pinnacles National Park?

No. There is no road through the park, which spans over 26,000 acres . For comparison, Yosemite spans nearly 760,000 acres .

“You can drive around the outside, and that takes about an hour and a half,” Moorer said. “Make sure that when you're putting it in your navigation system – GPS, what have you – make sure that it's going to the south. There is technically a road that runs to the north, but it's not well maintained. It's not a road that I would intentionally send anybody on.” 

How long should I spend in Pinnacles National Park?

Moorer said most visitors spend a day in the park, but avid hikers and rock climbers may stay longer. 

“You definitely wouldn't get the full Pinnacles experience if you were just driving by, stopping in for an hour,” he said. 

There are more than 30 miles of trail at Pinnacles. 

“One thing we've been trying to transition toward is making Pinnacles a park for all seasons, for all people,” Moorer said, offering Prewett Point as an example. “It's not only accessible, it's also just a great view of the park.”

What month is best to visit Pinnacles National Park?

“If we're looking specifically for wildflowers, April would probably be the one … but we're also busier in April,” Moorer said. 

On the flip side, he said August is the least visited time of year when temperatures can reach triple digits.

“Come prepared,” he said. “If (you’re) going to the caves, you want to bring a headlamp. If you're going to go up to the high peaks, make sure you bring enough water and snacks with you.”

Is Pinnacles National Park worth visiting?

Yes, but don’t expect it to be empty just because it’s among America’s 15 least visited national parks .

“You will be sorely mistaken if you come out on a Saturday and it's beautiful out,” Moorer said. “You're probably going to encounter a line of cars trying to do just what you're doing: enjoy the park.”

With limited parking available, Symons said visitors can sometimes wait an hour for a parking spot or be turned away on busy weekends.

“Monday through Friday, visitors have the caves and condors entirely to themselves,” he said. “Come during the week and skip the crowds!”

What Native tribes are tied to Pinnacles National Park?

“The group that would be most associated with the park would be the Chalon (Indian Nation) ,” Moorer said. “North of here, we also have worked with the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band .”

He said there may be other Native tribes with historic ties. “It is an evolving story.”

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• National Parks

This National Park Is Known for Its High Elevation — and Offers Stunning Hikes, Diverse Wildlife, and More

Here's everything you need to know before visiting Rocky Mountain National Park.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

• Planning Your Visit

How to Get There

• Best Time to Visit

Best Things to Do

• Places to Stay

Places to Eat

Matt Dirksen/Getty Images

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the highest national parks in the country, with an elevation that spans from 7,600 feet above sea level to 14,259 feet (or almost three miles) above sea level. Beyond its towering elevation, the mountainous Continental Divide runs through the park, along with the highest continuous paved road in the United States (the Trail Ridge Road), which provides visitors with beautiful high-elevation drives. Those interested in exploring on foot will find over 350 miles of trails, many of which lead to untouched wilderness areas.

“Rocky Mountain National Park provides exceptional access to wild places for visitors to recreate and experience solitude and outstanding scenery,” explained Kyle Patterson, the management specialist and public affairs officer for Rocky Mountain National Park, in an interview with Travel + Leisure.

Meet the Expert

Kyle Patterson is the management specialist and public affairs officer for Rocky Mountain National Park.

Claire Molle is the communications manager of Visit Estes Park.

Planning Your Visit 

John Covert/Getty Images

Rocky Mountain National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, but some areas may be closed seasonally or due to weather conditions. No matter when you visit, you’ll need to purchase a park pass. A single-day vehicle pass is $30, while a seven-day vehicle pass is $35.

The park is completely cashless, so you’ll need to buy your entrance pass online via Recreation.gov or by using a credit/debit card or digital payment at one of the park’s entrances. If you only have cash, you can purchase a park pass from the Rocky Mountain Conservancy Nature Stores at three of the park’s visitor centers: Beaver Meadows, Fall River, or Kawuneeche. 

If you’re visiting during the park’s busy season, late May to mid-October, you’ll also need to arrange a timed-entry permit. There are two types of timed-entry permits: one that provides access to the entire park, and one that allows you to visit everything except the Bear Lake Road Corridor (the most heavily used portion of the park). Both can be reserved on Recreation.gov starting May 1, 2024 and cost only the $2 Recreation.gov processing fee. With a timed-entry permit, you can enter Rocky Mountain National Park within a two-hour  window of your entry time with no set departure time. For more, visit the park’s timed-entry information page .

There are four visitor centers in the park: Beaver Meadows, Fall River, Kawuneeche, and Alpine. Beaver Meadows and Fall River are located on the eastern side of the park near the city of Estes Park, Colorado, while Kawunechee is located on the western side of the park near Granby, Colorado. They remain open year-round. Alpine, which is on the northern side of the park and is the highest-elevation visitor center in the National Park System, closes in the winter.

During the busy season, you can also visit the Moraine Park Discovery Center near the eastern entrances.

arinahabich/Getty Images

If you’re staying in or flying into Denver, head west to Estes Park, Colorado, the base for the two eastern park entrances and visitor centers, Beaver Meadows and Fall River. If you’re coming to Rocky Mountain National Park from the western or southwestern part of the state, your closest entrance and visitor center will be Kawuneeche, which is near the town of Grand Lake , north of Granby, Colorado. 

There is no public transportation from nearby cities to the park, so you will need a car to explore Rocky Mountain National Park. From late May to mid-October, you can drive the park’s iconic Trail Ridge Road, which connects Grand Lake and Estes Park. 

Best Time to Visit 

epicurean/Getty Images

The best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is typically fall, when everything is still open but the summer crowds have dispersed. According to Claire Molle, the communications manager of Visit Estes Park , “Fall is a terrific time to visit Estes Park and RMNP, with gorgeous fall colors and the chance to witness the fascinating elk rut. Weather seems to also be terrific in September and early October.”

She notes that winter and spring are also fantastic times to visit, noting that even though certain parts of the park are closed (including Trail Ridge Road), “Winters in RMNP evoke serene tranquility, especially during snowshoeing excursions. You can find terrific trails to snowshoe in RMNP starting around late November through early May!” 

Patterson calls out the solitude of winter (and frozen waterfalls), and notes that while the summer wildflower season can be stunning, “Late May through mid-October is the busiest part of the year with high visitation.”

Mark C Stevens/Getty Images

Trail Ridge Road

This paved road connects the two main entrances of the park — Grand Lake and Estes Park — showcasing the visual wonder of Rocky Mountain National Park. The road offers sweeping Rocky Mountain views in all directions. Trail Ridge Road takes most people between four and eight hours, depending on how many viewpoints and trails you want to stop at.

Patterson notes that the route “is the highest continuous paved road in the United States with 11 miles above treeline.  There are a number of pull-offs and short trails to experience the magic of the alpine tundra and top-of-the-world, 360-degree views.”

Trail Ridge Road is normally open from Memorial Day to mid-October, weather permitting.

Sheep Lakes

Not far from the Fall River entrance is Sheep Lakes, an open area that offers a dramatic view of Horseshoe Park, which was carved by ancient glaciers. According to the Rocky Mountain National Park website, the “beautiful meadow is a great place to view wildlife. The area is named for the bighorn sheep that come down from the mountainside to lick mud for nutrients. Sheep Lakes also sees coyotes, ground squirrels, and elk.”

The parking lot at Sheep Lakes is open 24 hours a day, year-round, but it's best visited in the fall when the annual elk mating season takes place. The adjacent Sheep Lakes Information Station is closed in the winter and spring.

Holzwarth Historic Site

For a glimpse into the park’s human history, visit the Holzwarth Historic Site. The series of buildings provide a peek into what life looked like in the 1920s, when the Holzwarth family homesteaded on 160 acres high in the mountains. 

The grounds are open year-round, but entry into the historic buildings is only allowed in the summer (typically Memorial Day to Labor Day).

Best Hikes 

MargaretW/Getty Images

If you’re not much of a hiker but you want to stretch your legs and see the views, head to the Bear Lake Trailhead on the east side of the park. The route goes around the lake in a view-packed, half-mile journey. The route is wheelchair accessible, and offers stunning views of Hallett Peak and the Continental Divide from the trail.

It’s worth noting that the trail can be very busy in the summer and that parking is limited. To be safe, park at the Park & Ride lot and hop on the free summer shuttle to the trailhead. 

Emerald Lake

The Emerald Lake hike also begins at the Bear Lake Trailhead, but tends to be a little quieter than the Bear Lake loop. (That said, the parking and shuttle advice above still applies.)

Molle says,”It's a great option for families or those who might not know how far they are wanting to hike because it will take you first to Nymph Lake, then to Dream Lake, and finally to Emerald Lake about two miles up. All three lakes are breathtaking, and the trail allows you to pick whichever lake you would like as your destination depending on how ambitious you are feeling.” 

For the more adventurous and experienced hiker, Patterson recommends hiking to Chasm Lake on the east side of the park. The lake sits at the base of Longs Peak, the park’s highest point and one of Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks. The out-and-back trail to Chasm Lake is 8.4 miles and requires a steady climb through a subalpine forest and into the alpine tundra.

Coyote Valley

This easy, out-and-back trail is located on the west side of the park, near Grand Lake and Granby. The hike is one mile, roundtrip and is wheelchair accessible. The route runs along the Colorado River, which draws local wildlife, including elk and moose.

Cascade Falls

This hiking trail is also located on the quieter, western side of Rocky Mountain National Park. The out-and-back trail is almost seven miles long and passes through open meadows, dense pine forest, and along the river, in addition to taking hikers to a beautiful cascade that tumbles onto pure granite rock. 

Sparty1711/Getty Images

Wildlife spotting is one of the main reasons people visit Rocky Mountain National Park, which is home to large wild animals, including elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and bears. The park is home to a large elk herd, numbering between 600 to 800 in the winter , and around 350 bighorn sheep. There is also a small population of moose and black bears.

According to the park’s website, “wildlife watching is rated the number-one activity by a vast majority of Rocky's three million annual visitors.”

One of the most interesting times to view the elk herd is in the fall, during the rut, or mating season. Sheeps Lake is a popular viewing spot, as is any place in the park where the meadow and forest meet. According to the national park’s website, “Elk spend much of their time at or above treeline during the summer, moving to lower elevations in the fall, winter, and spring.”

Bighorn Sheep

The best place to see bighorn sheep is at the aptly named Sheep Lakes from May to mid-August.

Moose are more commonly seen on the western side of the park along the Colorado River in the Kawuneeche Valley. They tend to frequent the willow thickets set along the river.

Black Bears

Black bears make a point to avoid humans , so they are rarely seen in the park. The sightings, while rare, take place in the summer once the bears have come out of hibernation. It’s worth noting that contrary to their name, black bears can also be dark brown, cinnamon-colored, or almost blonde.

Places to Stay 

Christian Harder

In addition to lots of backcountry, hike-to camping that requires a permit, Rocky Mountain National Park has five campgrounds with sites that can be reserved in advance and accessed by a car. 

Patterson notes that “They are very popular, and demand normally exceeds supply.” She also warns that Moraine Park Campground, which is listed below and is the park's largest campground, is currently closed. It will reopen for summer 2024, but the timing is unknown. 

All the campgrounds but Longs Peak Campground must be reserved in advance with a rolling six-month window.

Campgrounds

Aspenglen Campground: This campground has 52 RV and tent sites including 13 that are for tents only. There is no water and no RV dump station. This is the only campground open year-round.

Glacier Basin Campground: Glacier Basin has 150 sites, along with lots of amenities — including firewood for sale, potable water, a dump station, and helpful staff on site. It is only open from late May through mid-September, weather dependent.

Moraine Park Campground: This is the largest campground in the park with 244 campsites. The park website notes that it is “closed until early June 2024,” while Patterson said that the exact opening date is still unknown and might be later into the summer than planned. When the campground restoration project is complete, the large campground will have new walkways, parking areas, and amenities, including 15 additional wheelchair-accessible campsites, 90 new food storage boxes, and electrical hook-ups for around 60 campsites. The Moraine Park Campground also has potable water, an RV dump station, and staff on site.

Longs Peak Campground: This is a tent-only campground (no RVs allowed). It typically opens in July and closes in early September. It is also the only first-come, first-served campground in the park.

Timber Creek Campground: Timber Creek is the only campground on the quieter, western side of the park. This campground has 98 RV and tent sites, including 30 that are reserved for tents only. There is potable water, an RV dump station, and staff on site. Timber Creek is only open in the summer season.

Trailborn Rocky Mountains: The buzz around this new hotel is well founded. Trailborn Rocky Mountains , which opened in late 2023 in Estes Park, was specifically designed to serve national park visitors. The well-thought-out basecamp is clean and modern with just enough amenities to make it stand out — including on-site dining, pools, and an outdoor space with fire pits. 

“The Trailborn stands out as a modern and well-equipped motel-style lodging, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts,” said Molle.

Grand Lake Lodge: This property is located on the western side of the park in the town of Grand Lake. Most guests stay in the historic cabins, which have been updated with a contemporary look, but there are also four “Jupes,” or tents, with high ceilings and solar-power-generated electricity.

There are no dining options inside Rocky Mountain National Park, so you’ll need to plan ahead by packing a picnic or returning to town for lunch.

The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern

The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern is one of the closest restaurants to the entrance to the national park. It is also much more than a restaurant — it’s a community hub with near-constant live music and delicious food.

Poppy's Pizza & Grill

This eatery is one of Molle’s favorites. It’s got an excellent riverfront location in Estes Park and has an outdoor patio where you can enjoy one of their specialty pies or sandwiches paired with a Colorado-brewed beer.

Claire's Restaurant and Bar

This spot in Estes Park is another of Molle’s top picks. Claire’s has a wide variety of dishes, including BBQ, fish, and burgers. The establishment opened in 1992 and continues to be a favorite — it helps that it has a lovely outdoor patio.

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, fees & passes.

Last updated: March 7, 2024

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

P.O. Box 52 Hawaii National Park, HI 96718

808 985-6011

Stay Connected