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Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Attraction: A Guide for First Time Visitors
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the most iconic and beloved tourist destinations in the United States. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, the park encompasses two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea, as well as a sprawling landscape of lava fields, rainforests, and native plants and wildlife. It is a place of awe-inspiring beauty and incredible adventure, drawing millions of visitors each year. Whether you are looking for a day trip or a longer stay, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers something for everyone.
A Brief History of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was established on August 1, 1916 when President Woodrow Wilson signed into law legislation that declared the park a “public pleasure ground.” The park was the 13th national park in the United States and has been one of the country’s most beloved parks ever since.
Since its establishment, the park has been a mecca for scientists and adventurers alike. It is home to some of the most active volcanoes in the world and offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of nature firsthand. In 2019, the park was designated an International Dark Sky Park – making it one of only 16 such parks in the U.S. – and was also named one of the top ten national parks in the country by TripAdvisor.
Things to Do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
With its diverse landscape and wealth of activities, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers a variety of experiences for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the most popular activities:
Hiking
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has dozens of hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous, offering something for everyone. The park’s signature hike is Kilauea Iki, a 4-mile loop around an ancient crater that takes you past steaming fumaroles, lush rainforest, and bubbling lava. Other popular hikes include Mauna Ulu, Thurston Lava Tube, and Chain of Craters Road.
Camping
Camping is a popular activity in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. With five campgrounds to choose from, there’s something for everyone. The campgrounds range from primitive to modern, offering everything from solar showers to RV hookups. All campgrounds offer stunning views of Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcanoes and provide easy access to nearby trails and attractions.
Wildlife Watching
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to a variety of native plants and animals. On your visit, you can expect to see nene geese, Hawaiian hawks, and mongooses. You may also spot dolphins and whales off the coast or even catch a glimpse of the endangered Hawaiian hoary bat.
Volcano Tours
One of the most popular activities in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is exploring the volcanoes themselves. You can take a guided tour to Kilauea’s summit or explore lava tubes and fissures created by recent eruptions. Many tour companies offer guided volcano hikes, stargazing tours, and night-time lava viewing experiences.
Popular Tours in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
For those looking for an immersive experience in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, there are several popular tours worth considering. Here are two excellent options for first-time visitors:
Kilauea Volcano Evening Hike & Lava Viewing
This tour is perfect for those looking to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Kilauea volcano at night. On this tour, you will be guided on an easy 2-mile hike through rainforest trails into the summit crater before descending into Halemaumau Crater to witness an incredible display of lava glows in the night sky. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the history and geology of Kilauea volcano and surrounding area. You can book this tour here.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Stargazing Tour
This tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the night sky from one of the world’s darkest places. You will be taken on a driving tour to some of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park’s darkest spots where you will be able to gaze at stars, planets, galaxies and other celestial wonders through powerful telescopes provided by your guide. Along the way, your guide will provide insights into the history of Kilauea volcano as well as information about some of the constellations you will see in the night sky. You can book this tour here.
Conclusion
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is an awe-inspiring destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for an adventure or simply a chance to explore nature’s wonders up close, the park has something for you. From hiking trails to camping sites to volcano tours, there is no shortage of exciting activities to keep you busy during your visit. And with two popular tours available for first time visitors – Kilauea Volcano Evening Hike & Lava Viewing and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Stargazing Tour – there is no better place to begin your adventure than Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
