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| Cascades Volcano Observatory, Vancouver, Washington |
| Visit A Volcano |
April 1986, Pu'u O'o Eruption, Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii |
| Hawaii Volcano Information |
Link to:
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory Website
| Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii |
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Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, established
in 1916, displays the results of 70 million years of
volcanism, migration, and evolution -- processes
that thrust a bare land from the sea and
clothed it with complex and unique
ecosystems and a distinct human culture.
The park encompasses 230,000 acres and
ranges from sea level to the summit of the
earth's most massive volcano, Mauna Loa at
13,677 feet. Kilauea, the world's most active
volcano, offers scientists insights on the
birth of the Hawaiian Islands and visitors
views of dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on the Island of Hawai`i, 96 miles from Kailua-Kona and 30 miles from Hilo. Over half of the park is designated wilderness and provides unusual hiking and camping opportunities. In recognition of its outstanding natural values, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has been honored as an International Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site. Explore the summit of Kilauea Volcano via Crater Rim Drive, an 11-mile loop road that encircles the summit caldera, passes through the Ka`u Desert and tropical rain forest and provides access to well-marked scenic stops and short walks. Allow one to three hours, depending on how often you stop. If you have three to four hours, you may also explore the East Rift and coastal area via Chain of Craters Road. This road descends 3,700 feet in 20 miles and ends where a 1995 lava flow crosses the road. Depending on changing volcanic activity, there may be opportunities for viewing active lava flows. No food or fuel is available along the Chain of Craters Road. The park is situated on two active volcanoes. There are many hidden hazards for the unwary and those unfamiliar with volcanic environments. Wear adequate clothing and sturdy shoes; stay on designated trails and do not enter closed areas or lava tubes (except Thurston Lava Tube); carry and consume water and use precautions against excessive sun exposure. Volcanic fumes are hazardous to your health and can be life-threatening. Visitors with heart or breathing problems, infants, young children and pregnant women are especially at risk and should avoid stopping at Sulphur Banks, Halema`uma`u Crater and other areas where fumes are present.
Excerpts courtesy of:
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Website, 1999
Link to: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Website
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
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| Haleakala National Park, Maui, Hawaii |
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Haleakala, originally part of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, was
redesignated as a separate entity in July 1961.
Haleakala National Park
was designated an International Biosphere Reserve in 1980. Of its 28,655 acres,
19,270 are wilderness.
The Park preserves the outstanding volcanic landscape of the upper slopes of Haleakala on the island of Maui and protects the unique and fragile ecosystems of Kipahulu Valley, the scenic pools along Oheo Gulch, and many rare and endangered species. Haleakala National Park extends from the 10,023 foot summit of Haleakala down the southeast flank of the mountain to the Kipahulu coast near Hana. These two sections of the Park are not directly connected by road, but both can be reached from Kahului. The Summit area of Haleakala is a three hour round trip drive from Kahului via roads 37, 377, and 378. Follow the signs posted along the Highway. The Kipahulu area of the Park is at the east end of Maui between Hana and Kaupa. It can be reached via Highway 36, a curvy, often wet road. Kipahulu is about 90 miles from the resort areas of Wailea or Kaanapali, and 60 miles from central Maui. Driving time is about 3-4 hours each way. An extension of this road, Highway 31, goes around the dry side of the island, past Kaupa and on to Ulapalakua. It is only partially paved and can be hazardous or closed during periods of stormy weather. Plan on spending at least 2 hours in the Park to drive up to the Summit and back to the entrance, longer if you plan to hike or attend natural or cultural history programs. One could spend all day or a few minutes enjoying the pools and scenic beauty of Kipahulu. Take time out to visit the ranger station, take a short hike, or plan a picnic. The weather at Haleakala is unpredictable; be prepared for cold wind, heavy rain, and hot sunshine. No dining or vending facilities are available in the Park, so plan your visit wisely. Also remember that there are no gas stations in or near the Park. Think Ahead! Sunrise and sunset are both amazing events, but sunrise is more crowded. Arrive at least one half hour before each to watch colors change. A flashlight will come in handy and warm clothes are a must! Good sunset locations include the Halemauu Trail and the Summit. Sunrise can be seen from Leleiwi or Kalahaku Overlooks, the Summit, and Haleakala Visitor Center.
Excerpts courtesy of:
Haleakala National Park Website, 1999
Link to: Haleakala National Park Website
Haleakala National Park
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