Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the traditional home of Pele, the Hawaiian volcano goddess.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was established in 1916 to preserve the region’s unique volcanic features, its early human history and the plant and animal life that is part of this special place. The extraordinary natural diversity of the park was recognized in 1980 when it was named by UNESCO as a World Biosphere site, and in 1987, when UNESCO again honored the park as a World Heritage site — the only such site in Hawaii, and one of only 20 in the U.S.

The current eruption began on January 3, 1983 and may last for another 100 years—or stop tomorrow.

Housed within the park’s 377 square miles are a variety of sights and services. The newly renovated Visitors Center, with its engaging displays on volcanism, native flora and fauna, and Hawaiian culture, is the perfect place to start. Rangers here also provide the latest eruption updates and information on back-country trails. There’s a great selection of books, DVDs and gifts, too. Then you’ll move on to the great, steaming Halemaumau crater at the summit, and nearby steam vents, sulfur banks and rain forest, all of it accessible by more than 150 miles of hiking trails. Get eruption updates at 985-6000.

Other features of the park:

Thomas A. Jagger Museum: geologic displays showing the history of Kilauea volcano, including working seismographs relating to the adjacent Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.

Crater Rim Drive: an 11-mile road that encircles Kilauea’s summit caldera.

Volcano House Hotel and Restaurant: The oldest continually operated hotel in Hawaii with the famous lava rock fireplace and lookout to Halemaumau Crater.

Volcano Art Center: in this historic 1877 building that was once a hotel, you’ll view exhibits of Hawaii’s finest artists and craftsmen.

Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
P.O. Box 62
Volcano, HI
96785 985-7067
http://www.fhvnp.org
Curious about the volcanoes, geology, native species, Hawaiian culture or other aspects of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park? Check the Website for exciting upcoming educational seminars.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Volcano, HI
POB 52, Hawaii National Park, HI 96718
(808) 985-6000
www.nps.gov/havo