All about: The Hawaii volcanoes national park

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park provides a spectacular glimpse of nature's awesome power. Here is a beginner's guide to the park: A part of the Big Island that proves Hawaii is not only about sunbathing, cocktails and sparkling sea.

About the Park

The Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii's Big Island is the result of 70 million years of evolution. The park encompasses two active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa and are only thirty minute drive from the town of Hilo. Visitors can experience many natural wonders including lava tubes, smoke plumes, steam vents, and fiery, glowing lava flows. Hiking and mountain biking as well as helicopter and boat rides are just a few of the activities on offer in the park.

Driving the park: Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road

For visitors with limited time, the Crater Rim Drive is an easy three-hour trip around the summit of Kilauea Caldera. The drive takes you through rain forest and desert and provides the opportunity to hike into the crater amongst steam vents and smoke plumes. (In times of elevated sulphur dioxide levels, the crater rim may be closed. Check Nps.gov for the latest information.) Visitors may chose to continue their drive down the Chain of Craters Road. This steeply descending road explores the East Rift of the volcano and ends abruptly where a lava flow cut off the road in 2003. A short hike from the end of the road offers views of the spectacular Lava Arch and, depending on recent volcanic activity, may also provide the chance to witness lava flowing into the ocean.

Hiking the park

There are many opportunities to explore the National Park on foot. Trails of varying length are provided for hikers of all abilities. Easy walks include Bird Park and the stunning Thurston Lava Tube whilst there are plenty of longer hikes such as those to Mauna Iki and Kilauea Iki. The Devastation and Waldron Ledge Trails are paved and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers while many wilderness hikes are roughly marked with cairns and should only be attempted by those in peak physical condition. All hikers should check weather conditions and trail information before commencing their trip. This information is available at Nps.gov or by speaking to rangers at the Kilauea Visitors Centre.

The volcano from above and below

For an unparalleled view of the volcano, visitors may consider a helicopter flight over the volcano. Flights are available from various sites including Allbigislandhawaiitours.com and Safarihelicopters.com. Sunrise boat tours give visitors the chance to witness fiery red lava flowing into the ocean. You can find trips at Lavaocean.com. A final word If you choose to explore the park, it will be an experience you won't forget.