Despite its harsh volcanic environment, the park harbors unique wildlife including the nene (Hawaiian goose), Hawaii's state bird that was once nearly extinct. Native forest birds like the apapane and i'iwi thrive in higher elevation forests, while the Hawaiian hawk (io) soars overhead. The park also protects several species of endemic Hawaiian honeycreepers, though many face challenges from avian diseases. Along the coast, visitors might spot green sea turtles, spinner dolphins, and various seabirds.
The park's vegetation zones range from coastal strand to alpine tundra, supporting over 50 threatened and endangered plant species. Native ohia lehua trees dominate many areas, displaying brilliant red blossoms that are culturally significant. The park protects rare Hawaiian rainforest species including hapu'u tree ferns, endemic orchids, and the Mauna Loa silversword. Pioneering plants like ferns and lichens demonstrate primary succession as they colonize new lava flows, providing insights into ecological adaptation and evolution.
The park showcases two of the world's most active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. These shield volcanoes exemplify Hawaiian-style eruptions, characterized by fluid lava flows rather than explosive events. The landscape features diverse volcanic formations including lava tubes, steam vents, cinder cones, and both pahoehoe (smooth, ropy) and a'a (rough, blocky) lava flows. Continuous volcanic activity constantly reshapes the terrain, creating new land while destroying existing features, making it a living laboratory for geological processes.
The park, established in 1916, holds profound cultural significance for Native Hawaiians who consider it the sacred home of Pele, the volcano goddess. Archaeological evidence reveals over 600 years of Hawaiian settlement in the area before Western contact. The park's modern history includes significant volcanic events like the 1959 Kilauea Iki eruption and the 2018 lower Puna eruption that dramatically altered the landscape. In 1987, UNESCO designated it as both a World Heritage site and International Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its exceptional geological and biological importance.
Key attractions include the Thurston Lava Tube, a 500-year-old lava cave illuminated for exploration, and the Kilauea Caldera with its dramatic Halema'uma'u crater, often glowing at night. The Chain of Craters Road offers 18 miles of volcanic vistas, ending at the dramatic sea arch. The Sulphur Banks (Ha'akulamanu) demonstrate active volcanic degassing, while the Kilauea Iki Trail lets visitors traverse a solidified lava lake. The park's Kahuku Unit provides access to Mauna Loa's slopes and unique ranching history.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park experiences diverse microclimates due to its dramatic elevation changes, from sea level to 13,681 feet at Mauna Loa's summit. Visitors encounter warm tropical conditions at lower elevations (70-85°F year-round) while summit areas can be cold and windy with occasional snow. Rainfall varies significantly, with the Hilo side receiving 120+ inches annually while the Kau desert sees less than 50 inches. Weather can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations, making layered clothing essential for any visit.
USA
19.4190°, -155.2870°
August 1, 1916
1308
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park encompasses two active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. The park features dramatic volcanic landscapes, rare flora and fauna, and unique geological features. Visitors can explore lava tubes, steam vents, crater rims, and witness the power of volcanic activity that continues to shape the Hawaiian Islands.