Geography
The park encompasses a variety of climates, including lush tropical rain forest and barren desert. Elevation ranges from sea level to the summit of the world's largest volcano, Mauna Loa, at 13,677 feet.
Volcanoes
There are five volcanoes in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Kohala, Mauna Kea, Hualalai, Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Hualalai, Mauna Loa and Kilauea are active.
Things to Do
There are more than 150 miles of trails in the park for hiking and biking. Park trails range from paved, wheelchair-accessible paths to rough wilderness trails. Lava viewing is possible both on foot along the Crater Rim Drive and by small plane or helicopter.
Visitor Centers
The Kilauea visitor center is located just inside the main gates of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Rangers can provide information about the current eruption, hiking routes and scheduled guided activities. The Jaggar Museum is located on Crater Rim Drive, and has views of the main crater of Kilauea. There is working seismograph equipment on display.
Where to Stay
There are two campgrounds in Volcanoes National Park, Namakanipaio and Kulanaokuaiki. Camping is free, and no reservations are required. The Volcano House Hotel offers cabins for rent inside the park.
Article Written By Hailey Williams
Hailey Williams is a freelance writer and editor from Los Angeles, California. She has a particular interest in culture, lifestyle, health, and women's interest reporting, and her work has been published in magazines including TV Week and Sugar. She graduated from the University of Sydney.
