Exploring the Volcanoes on the Big Island of Hawaii
The Big Island of Hawaii is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. The volcanoes hold cultural significance for Hawaiians. Pele is the Polynesian Goddess of Fire in Hawaii and the creator of volcanic landscapes. The Ancient Hawaiian stories indicate that Pele was both destructive and creative, her fires destroy the land but they then begin a new cycle with nutrient rich volcanic soils. It is also said that Pele will bring bad fortune to anyone who takes the lava rocks home as a souvenir, so be sure to observe the volcanic creations but leave it behind for others to enjoy.
Overview of the Big Island’s Volcanoes
Mauna Loa: This is one of the largest active volcanoes in the world, it is located in the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. For avid hikers there is an opportunity to do a day hike up the volcano or embark on the longer multiday trail with backcountry camping. The hikes are challenging but take you through diverse terrain from forests to lava rock.
Kilauea: This is the youngest and most active volcano on the island, it erupted continuously from 1983 until 2018.
Mauna Kea: This is the highest volcano on the island. Glaciers covered part of the summit area during the ice ages, and is the only Hawaiian volcano known to have glaciated.
Hualalai: This volcano has erupted three times in the last 1,000 years. The most recent eruption reached the ocean and now underlies the Kona International Airport.
Visiting the Volcanoes
Mauna Kea Observatory:
The volcanoes height has made it the perfect location for the multinational research facilities and observatories. Take part in one of the many sunset and star gazing tours atop Mauna Kea.
Volcano National Park:
The Volcano National Park makes a perfect day trip when you need a break from the beautiful Hawaiian beaches. The drive from Kona is approximately 2 hours, so plan some stops along the way including the black and green sand beaches.
Stop first at the visitor center to watch a short film introducing you to the park. Also pick up a map and plan out your visit with the help of the experts at the visitor center.
After the drive out to the National Park you will be looking to stretch your legs. Make your way to the sulphur banks and steam vents on the loop trail which is approximately one mile out and back. Or take a short walk through the unique cave-like lava tubes at the Thurston Lava Tube.
Visit the Kilauea Overlook along the crater rim drive to view steam rolling out from the crater and the glow of the lava after dark. There are also various hikes and scenic drives you can do in the area if your time permits.
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