He is relatively young, but very active. Experts consider it the most active volcano in our time. Its incessant eruption has been going on since 1983.
General information
Name Kilauea volcano translated from Hawaiian means "belching". Its height is 1247 meters, the volcano is located next to its "brother" Manua Loa, but differs from it in lower stature.
The beginning of the last eruption took place on January 3, 1983 and still does not stop. Since 2011, there has been an intense eruption activity.
At the top of the Kilauea volcano is a large caldera. This is a basin measuring 3 by 4 km. It contains a crater that has been active since 2008. The crater is called Halemaumau, it spews out a powerful column of gas and lava. Of course, this is not the only crater of the volcano; the Western and Southeastern rift zones are rich in them. There are also two cones with interesting names Kupayanaha and Puu-oo, from which lava also flows.
The volcano has two fault zones: one stretches 125 km to the east, the other - 35 km to the west.
Local beliefs
The inhabitants of the Hawaiian Islands have long worshiped the goddess Pele. She is considered the patroness of volcanoes and, according to legend, lives in the Kilauea volcano. At the first shudders of the elements, the tribe of natives, together with the oldest sorcerer, ascend to the top of Kilauea.
The pagans call the lake of lava "the house of eternal flame." Its fiery surface rises, releasing streams of lava, gases and vapors. The natives with prayers to the goddess throw sacrifices (birds and gifts of the earth) into a boiling lake called the "womb" of the goddess. They appeal to Pele and ask to save them from the catastrophe. The natives believe that if you appease the goddess, then she will be supportive and will not erupt with fiery lava.
Lava products are named after the goddess. For example, "Pele's tears" are called miniature drops of lava, "hair" - strips of lava cooled in the wind, "algae" - flowing lava into the ocean.
Element today
In shape, the volcano belongs to the shield. This means that it was formed as a result of lava emissions. Liquid lava spreads for many kilometers, and a "shield" is formed from its layers.
The volcano has several craters. The slope of the volcano is gentle, and you can climb it without climbing skills. Many tourists indulge in this dangerous activity, risking their own lives. Of course, seeing a volcanic eruption is an incomparable sensation, but we must not forget that being close to the elements is extremely dangerous.
In recent years, lava has destroyed many routes and buildings. Of course, the locals have adapted to their specific living conditions. They set up houses on stilts. Ornito are considered very dangerous - these are vents that release high-temperature gases. The magma around them is unstable, and there is a risk of failure.
Participation of the volcano in the process of building islands
An interesting fact is that the Hawaiian Islands themselves were formed as a result of the action of several volcanoes. In fact, the islands are the summits of vast volcanoes that emerged from the ocean depths. Similar geographic location the islands is truly unique on planet earth.
Many Hawaiian volcanoes are over 70 million years old. Kilauea is the youngest among them. It is located in the southeast of the Big Island. All the local volcanoes have erupted since ancient times, being in the waters of the ocean, and now their tops rise above sea level. And some are so high that they surpass many of the famous mountain peaks.
The exclusivity of the volcano
Scientists emphasize the exclusivity of the Kilauea volcano, calling it the most active volcano in Hawaii. He is currently the most active on the entire planet.
Kilauea rose from the sea 100,000 years ago after a series of eruptions. Previously, Kilauea was considered just an accompanying neighbor of Manua Loa. However, Kilauea was later discovered to have its own magma chamber. This is the "heart" of the volcano, formed by hot lava.
The vast majority of the slopes of Kilauea are covered with solidified lava, which is less than 1000 years old. The lava areas are interspersed with rock fragments and ash. A significant part of the mountain remains under water.
Eruptions
In January 1983, a violent eruption of the Kilauea volcano began in Hawaii. Lava flows out of a crater called Puu-oo in huge quantities. Such an eruption is considered the most voluminous in the last 5 centuries in the Eastern Rift Zone.
By the end of 2012, lava flows covered 125.5 km 2, thereby destroying habitable land. The total area of this territory was 202 hectares. Lava destroyed 214 buildings and liquidated 14.5 km of roads.
The eruption of the Kilauea volcano greatly affects the ecology of neighboring lands. Plants stop growing due to the outpouring of lava, and acid rains are due to the sulfur gases carried by the wind. Especially such rains are frequent in the desert Southwest rift zone.
Tourist interest
Volcano Kilauea in Hawaii attracts many tourists. It is included in the local National park, where crowds of connoisseurs of extreme recreation come annually.
The park has more than 240 hiking trails. Some of them are light, others are very long. Along one such trail, you can go to the inactive Kilauea crater, which erupted in 1959, cross its bottom, and pass by a crater that was frozen many years ago. A very exciting route!
Not far from the entrance to the park is the Kilauea Information Center, where rangers will tell you a lot about the life of volcanoes, as well as offer exciting tours for everyone. You can also buy souvenirs here.
This is how he is, fire-breathing and dangerous volcano Kilauea, which attracts both volcanologists and curious tourists from all over the world with its unexplored nature.
National Park " Hawaiian volcanoes»(Hawaii, USA) - exact location, interesting places, inhabitants, routes.
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Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park is one of the few places on the planet where there is a unique opportunity to observe, practically without risk to life, how incandescent lava erupts from the depths of the earth to the surface. On its territory is the most majestic volcano on Earth, Mauna Loa, and the most active one - Kilauea, and over 3 million travelers come to see them every year.
The park was founded in Hawaii in 1916 and currently has an area of approximately 1,300 square meters. km. In 1987, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, but it has been of interest among tourists and scientists since the 19th century.
The Mauna Loa volcano reaches a height of 9,100 m, and Kilauea has never stopped erupting since 1983.
Volcanic activity in the protected area is manifested in geysers, lava flows and pipes, thermal fields, crater pits, black sand beaches and other phenomena. On its territory you can see both tropical vegetation and barren deserts, which serve as a habitat for a variety of animals and insects. Including the endangered ones, among which are smiling spiders, biss turtles, carnivorous caterpillars, nene birds. The park has many Aboriginal archaeological sites, from original structures to the rarest concentrations of petroglyphs. But the main interest is, of course, volcanoes.
Volcanoes and what else to see
The difference between the volcanoes of the archipelago is that they belong to the category of "quiet" - lava erupts smoothly and flows down the slopes in slow waves, therefore it does not pose a danger to the observer. The last eruption Mauna Loa was recorded in 1984, but Kilauea is constantly active. But lava flows not from the crater, but at a distance of 15 km from it - through a crack. For more than 30 years of activity, 3.5 cubic meters of water have been ejected from the bowels of Kilauea. km of lava. The volcanoes of the park are considered a sacred place for local residents and in their mythology are presented as the abode of the deities of wind, lightning and fire.
In the park, you can not only observe the activity of volcanoes, but also organize trekking or ride through the deserts, jungles and cooled lava fields in a jeep.
Other highlights of the Hawaiian Volcanoes include the Information Center; Thomas Jagger Museum with a chic observation deck, observatory and gift shop; sulfur deposits; huge caves of lava origin, fumaroles (steam emissions of high temperature from volcanic fractures) and the aforementioned petroglyphs. The park provides hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails and ideal camping opportunities. For lovers active rest extreme jeep tours, mountain bike and helicopter tours and even small aircraft over volcanoes, beaches, valleys and waterfalls.
Practical information
The park is located in the southeastern region of the Big Island of Hawaii, 48 km from the city of Hilo and 154 km from the city of Kon. You can get to the place from these cities by buses or order a transfer from the hotel.
For those by car: the N11 highway leads to the park. Exact coordinates: 19.418956; 155.301740.
Entrance to the territory is free, but you will have to pay for a car or bicycle (information on the website). The park is open every day, 24 hours a day; information center working hours: every day from 7:45 to 17:00. Website (in English).
I have already shown you a rather popular one on the Internet, but now I will show you a popular volcanic place for tourists. There is lava literally underfoot. This place is considered a "Mecca" for photographers and volcanologists.
Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park(Hawai "i Volcanoes National Park) is located on the island of Hawaii (Big Island), in the state of Hawaii, USA. The park was founded on August 1, 1916 and has an area of 1348 km². Here you can see the result of thousands of years of volcanic activity with a history of 70 million years.
The park houses 2 of the most active in the world active volcano, the highest of which - Mauna Loa has a height of 4.169 m. Largest eruptions observed in 1924, 1982 and March 2008.
The unique landscape of the park is formed by the activity of volcanoes. Travelers have a unique opportunity to see both dormant volcanoes, the slopes of which are already covered with tropical forests, and active, smoking craters. The frozen dark volcanic lava in a huge black river slides into the ocean, blocking the roads, and forms a bizarre coastline... Where the lava enters the ocean, steam rises in the air and arches form. The unusual landscape and its desolation creates the feeling as if you were on the edge of the earth.
The eruption of Hawaiian volcanoes continues, and sow the day. In the park, located here, you can see different forms of volcanoes, and their eruptions.
It is very, very interesting to see how the volcano erupts, but it is very dangerous, which means that you can look at it from the photographs it is no less interesting, the flowing lava often lays down in such interesting patterns
This interesting park was created in 1916 on the island of Hawaii, the largest of the Hawaiian Islands, the area of the park is 1348 square kilometers.
It is also interesting that these ancient volcanoes formed dry land in the middle of the ocean; here you can see millennial changes in the world.
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The main volcano, Kilauea, awoke on July 5, 2008. Streams of hot lava flowed directly into the ocean. One of the most active volcanoes on earth today - Kilauea - you can ride and walk. True, its most central part - the caldera (Caldera - the zone of soil subsidence in the center of the crater) measuring 3 by 5 square kilometers - is fenced for safety reasons. The volcano can be studied using telescopes installed on observation deck with explanatory stands.
Most large volcano in this park it is Kilauela, it is the main volcanoes of the park, traditionally considered the main home of the volcano goddess Pele. The first Hawaiians visited this crater to bring gifts to this goddess.
The eruption of the Kilauea volcano in Hawaii began on January 3, 1983 and is ongoing.
Americans joke that "Hawaii is the only state that is growing in size." But, unfortunately, lava also destroyed 189 buildings and covered 14 kilometers of roads with a layer of 35 meters in places.
The volume of lava erupted by the volcano amounted to more than 3.1 cubic meters in 2007. km. The lava covered about 117 sq. km. , the area of the island during this time increased by 201 hectares.
Lava crawls to the house of Gary Slack, who in a few minutes will disappear into a flame of fire.
Gary Slack and his wife, last sitting on the terrace of the house, watching the forest blaze
And here is the culmination, you stand and watch your house burn, and no one can do anything, nature once again proves that man is by no means the main one on this planet.
Meet the Goddess Pele:
In the Hawaiian religion, Kilauea is the home of the goddess Pele, the goddess of volcanoes.
Sacred for Hawaiians is the giant almost round dark gray bowl of the Halemaumau crater located inside Kilauea - according to legend, the abode of the goddess of volcanoes Pele. The eruption of this volcano in 1952 lasted 136 days and led to the appearance of a lake of lava, now cooled down. On the periphery of the craters, spines, typical of deserts, sprouted, and some cacti bloomed beautifully.
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The area of the island increases every second. Lava erupting into the ocean cools down and creates new formations, which increase the area of the island. There is a possibility that volcanic shelves and new formations on the coast will break off and sink into the Pacific Ocean. If 560 acres of volcanic rock collapses into the ocean, it will be another disaster. A grand earthquake, a tsunami may occur. And it can be the greatest of disasters. Some debris can form volcanic islands like the island of Molokai. It will be a catastrophe on a universal scale.
The park includes a large territory, and all heights, from sea level to the most high volcano, the top of the island, the Maunu Kea volcano, its height is 4 205 meters. It begins at a depth of 6,000 meters, it is even higher than Everest.
Strange, but true, the Hawaiian jungle grows on the island, and just giant ferns, also live on the island unique species birds. How do they live here.
This park attracts many volcanic scientists who study these amazing creations of nature. In addition, the Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park is visited by numerous tourists to admire the unique landscape.
The climate in this park is very diverse: from barren desert Cau before the tropical rainforest. Approximately 50% of the park is wilderness with developed hiking... The national park has a great natural value, so in 1980 it was awarded the status of the International biosphere reserve, and in 1987 entered the UNESCO World Heritage List. The unique landscapes of the park attract about 2.5 million tourists every year.
In 1823, the Kilauea volcano was first visited by Westerners. They were American Asa Thurston and English missionary William Ellis. Since that time, more than one million tourists have visited the Hawaiian Volcanoes Park to see firsthand the movement of incandescent lava flows.
Since the 1840s, the Kilauea volcano has developed into a tourist attraction. Local businessmen George Lycurgus and Benjamin Pitman built hotels here to receive tourists. The tourist pilgrimage grew, and in 1911 Hawaii Governor Walter Freer promulgated a bill to create “ National park Kilauea ".
However, the bill met with fierce opposition from ranchers who were located in the area. Only the support of former US President Theodore Roosevelt tipped the scales in favor of creating a national park. On August 1, 1916, Halekala National Park became the first national park in Hawaii and the 11th in the United States of America. In September 1960, the Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park was separated from its composition.
Today, the national park provides an opportunity to explore Kilauea without risking your life. But this is one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
At the same time, volcanoes in Hawaii have not a conical shape, like most volcanoes on our planet, but a shield shape, which was formed as a result of many eruptions of liquid lava. Volcanoes, which eject basaltic lava, are shield-shaped. It has a lower viscosity, so it spreads over long distances from the eruption site. This type also includes Mauna Loa - the largest volcano on our planet in terms of volume, which occupies half of the largest Hawaiian island.
However, the most attractive for tourists is the Kilauea volcano. It is surrounded by a 17-kilometer road, which provides comfortable access to the fantastic attractions located here. Despite the fact that Kilauea is the most active volcano on Earth, it is safe for visitors,
Sometimes the lava rolls right into the sea, so the coast gradually increases in size.
In addition to the volcanoes themselves, the national park has many caves, which are lava tubes. They were formed as follows: when the upper part of the lava solidified, its main volume continued to move, leaving behind an empty space. The most famous cave in Hawaii is the Thurston Lava Tube, which is open to the public every day.
Kelauea erupts 300,000 cubic meters of lava every day. This is enough to fill 40 thousand garbage trucks. This boiling cauldron can be deadly. Sulfuric acid emissions smell like a million rotten eggs. These vapors are hazardous to health.
Lava is constantly moving towards the ocean
The image shows the six large islands of the Hawaiian archipelago, from left to right: Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, Kalohave and Hawaii - the largest island. The archipelago also includes two more large islands and 124 small ones. All of the islands of the archipelago are of volcanic origin. The image is compiled from three images taken on March 27, 2006, April 16, 2007 and January 21, 2008 from the same point. Colored dots indicate that geological changes have taken place in this place. Satellite data shows that volcanoes are very active. The Hawaiian Islands are generally one of the most volcanically active regions.
The first white people climbed that volcano only in 1823, they were the English missionary William Ellis and the American Asa Thurston. Here is what Ellis later wrote about the volcano's caldera: “A sublime and even terrifying spectacle appeared before us. the abyss that lies below us. "
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Freezing lava: Thomas Jagger set up a museum at the edge of the caldera. Exhibits are everything that relates to volcanoes - scientific equipment, clothing used by volcanologists and so on. Some of the museum's windows offer a wonderful view of the Calauela caldera and the Galemaumau crater. The museum is named after Jagger, who was also the first head of the Hawaiian Volcanic Observatory, adjacent to the museum. But the entrance to the observatory is closed for tourists.
general information
The soil and rocks under this island South Sea- a very unreliable basis. The Hawaiian archipelago is the result of volcanic activity: its 137 islands are the summits of underwater volcanoes. This chain lies just along the edge of the great Pacific tectonic plate, which moves 10 cm to the northwest every year. Volcanoes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park are located on the main island, which has the local name " Big Island". These are the most active volcanoes on the planet.
The reserve was founded on August 1, 1916, and then it was called the Hawaiian National Park. Protected status 1300 sq. km of its area was confirmed in 1961 under modern name... Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park includes a unique ecological system, from ocean beaches with black sand to fire-breathing mountains.
Rising 4169 m above sea level, Mauna Loa is the most a large volcano on the ground. Its foot goes into one of the most deep depressions Pacific Ocean, adding another 5000 m to the first figure.This means that the total height of Mauna Loa is more than 9100 m, much more height Mount Everest (8848 m). Mauna Loa's "little brother" is Kilauea. Although it is far from the size of Mauna Loa, Kilauea is the most active volcano on the planet. Both mountains are classified as shield volcanoes, like most volcanoes in Hawaii.
The Aboriginal people have a legend explaining why Kilauea is so restless and sometimes even cruel. Locals It is believed that the crater of Kilauea, Halemaumau, is the home of the fire goddess Pele, a very hot-tempered person. The girl easily loses control over herself and begins to literally spit fire and red-hot lava anywhere. Then Pele calms down and plunges into a blessed sleep. To appease such an ardent goddess, or at least moderate her furious anger, the aborigines bring gifts for Pele and leave them at the edge of the crater. This custom is sacredly observed in our days.
Geologists, as always, explain Kilauea's tough temper in a more pragmatic way. The most popular theory is the so-called hotspot idea. A hot spot is any area that exhibits volcanic activity for a sufficiently long period of time without lava eruptions. This theory assumes the presence of huge cavities under the surface of the Earth, from which magma rises relatively slowly compared to real eruptions. The Pacific tectonic plate floats just above such a giant magma lake. Internal pressure, provoking continental drift, pushes magma to the surface, appears new island with the inevitable volcanic activity... So, there is nothing surprising in the fact that Kilauae now and then erupt, throwing thin fountains of lava into the sky day and night.
Facts
- Base: Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park was founded on the Hawaii archipelago on August 1, 1916. Today its area is 1309 sq. km.
- Altitude: Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park rises 4169 m above sea level at high point, Mauna Loa. If we count from its foot on the ocean floor, then the height of this volcano will be 9100 m.
- Eruptions: Since 1983, Kilauea has continued to erupt. It has long been considered the most active volcano on the planet.
- List World heritage UNESCO: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987.
In the 19th century, the main interest of travelers in Hawaii was not the beaches, but the Hawaiian volcanoes. Islanders and tourists are drawn to volcanoes, not fleeing from them. Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park is one of the few places on the planet where it is relatively safe to watch volcanic eruptions. The territory of the park includes the peaks of the largest (Mauna Loa) and the most active (Kilauea) volcanoes on the planet. In 1980, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park received the status of an International Biosphere Reserve, and in 1987 it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The unique volcanic landscapes of the park attract about 3 million tourists every year.
What's so special about Hawaiian volcanoes?
Brief description of the park
Geological features... Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park stretches from sea level to a height of 4169 meters and includes the largest (Mauna Loa) and most active (Kilauea) volcanoes in the world. Kilauea in nearly continuous eruptions since 1983; Mauna Loa last erupted in 1984. Volcanic features within the park include calderas, crater pits, cinder cones, fumaroles, geysers, solfatars, lava flows, lava tubes, black sand beaches, and thermal fields. The climate ranges from lush rainforest to the arid and barren Cau Desert. More than half of the park are protected areas with a developed network hiking trails and ample camping opportunities.
Biological features. The park covers a diverse natural environment, ranging from the seashore to the summit of the most massive volcano on Earth, Mauna Loa (4169 m). The territory of the Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park consists of seven ecological zones:
Coast;
lowlands;
tree-covered hills;
rainforests;
mountain forests;
subalpine belt;
alpine belt.
The park serves as a refuge for many endangered species, including the Bissa (turtle), Nene (Goose), Hawaiian petrel, Hawaiian hawk, Hawaiian gray and white bat, Hawaiian flower girls (birds), carnivorous caterpillars and smiling spiders.
Cultural features... Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park preserves the archaeological remains of native Hawaiians. The park is famous for its Pu "u Loa petroglyphs, the largest concentration of ancient petroglyphs in Hawaii (about 20,000).
Dimensions (edit): area 1308 km2, 106 km of paved roads, 249 km of hiking trails.
Volcanoes of the national park
Mauna loa(Mauna Loa) is the largest volcano on the planet with a volume of about 75,000 km3. The volcano is 4,169 meters high (the second highest in the Hawaiian Islands after Mauna Kea), 112 km long, 48 km wide. Eruptions, as a rule, are not explosive, the lava is poor in silicon dioxide, therefore it is very liquid. Due to these features, slightly inclined slopes of the volcano were formed. The last eruption of Mauna Loa took place from March 24 to April 15, 1984 and at the moment the volcano is inactive. Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park spans the summit and southeastern slopes of Mauna Loa.
Kilauea(Kīlauea) is the most active of the five volcanoes that formed the Big Island of Hawaii. Kilauea is the main tourist attraction in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It has a large, relatively recently formed caldera and two active rift zones. Rift zones are a feature of the shield volcanoes in Hawaii. Fissures in the volcanic structure allow lava to erupt away from the summit of the volcano. For example, volcano Kilauea is currently erupting from the Puu Oo vent located in the eastern rift zone of Kilauea, about 15 km east of the Kilauea crater itself.
The current eruption of Kilauea began on January 3, 1983, and is by far the longest-lived active volcano in the world. As of January 2011, the eruption has ejected 3.5 cubic kilometers of lava, covering an area of 123.2 km2.
The active state of Kilauea has a significant impact on the ecology of its slopes. Plant growth is often interrupted by fresh effusions of molten lava, and wind-blown volcanic sulphurous gases cause acid rain, especially in the barren southwestern rift zone known as the Ka'u Desert.
Historically, five volcanoes on the island were considered sacred to Hawaiians. In Hawaiian mythology, the Kilauea caldera and the Halemaumau crater serve as the abode of Pele, the goddess of fire, lightning, wind, and volcanoes.
Kilauea is considered the most visited volcano on the planet due to its ability to observe the flow of molten lava. It is relatively safe to visit as its eruptions are not explosive.
Points of interest (attractions) in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Kilauea Information Center(Kilauea Visitor Center) is located a couple of hundred meters from the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the right side of the road. Typically, this is the first stop for the approximately 3 million tourists who visit the national park each year. If you want to know more about the park, where to go, what to do, current lava eruption sites, stop here. The always friendly and knowledgeable park rangers will answer all your questions. Here you can watch a 30-minute film about volcanic eruptions, book tours with park rangers, learn about hiking trails, and pick up souvenirs. The Kilauea Information Center is open daily 07:45 am to 5:00 pm.
Thomas Jagger Museum located along Crater Rim Drive, 3 km from Kilauea Information Center. From the observation deck of the museum, a panorama of the caldera and the Halemaumau crater opens. Exhibits include equipment previously used by scientists to study volcanoes. A souvenir shop is at the service of tourists. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is adjacent to the Jagger Museum, but it is closed for free access. The museum is open daily from 08:30 to 17:00.
Caves Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park are composed primarily of lava tubes. Lava tubes are natural channels through which flows of molten liquid rock move under the surface of the earth during a volcanic eruption. These caves sometimes stretch for many kilometers with a height of several meters.
Thurston lava tube- an example of a massive lava cave. This 500-year-old lava cave was discovered in 1913 by Lorrin Thurston, the publisher of a local newspaper. At the time of opening, the ceiling of the cave was covered with lava stalactites, but soon they were quickly dismantled for souvenirs. Thurston Lava Tube is open for daily access. Private tour operators offer guided tours of the Thurston Lava Tube and similar caves around Hawaii's Big Island, in particular tour operators Native Guide Hawaii(www.nativeguidehawaii.com) and Kilauea caverns of fire(www.kilaueacavernsoffire.com).
Pua Po'o- another cave of a similar type. It is sometimes called the "secret lava tube" of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. There is very little information about this cave. Visits are only possible every Wednesday, accompanied by a park ranger. You must contact the Kilauea Information Center in advance to book a tour.
Puu Oo(Puu Oo) is a tuff cone in the eastern rift zone of Kilauea volcano. Puu Oo has been erupting continuously since January 3, 1983, making it the longest-lived active rift zone in the past two decades. By January 2005, 2.7 cubic kilometers of magma covered an area of over 117 square kilometers and added 0.93 km2 of land on the southeast coast of Hawaii's Big Island. In 1986, a lava flow from Puu Oo destroyed most the village of Kapalana (Kalapana). The Wahalua Information Center and the ancient Hawaiian temple are further victims of Puu Oo.
Lava flows... Most visitors to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park are most interested in seeing molten lava flows in the Kilauea core. Since 1983, Kilauea volcano has continuously erupted in its eastern rift zone. These lava flows created more than 200 hectares of new land and covered 12 km of the Chain of Craters Road with lava, the thickness of the solidified rock in places reaches 35 m. The nature of the volcano is unstable, sometimes a river of lava is observed, at other times nothing. At the moment, the end of the Chain of Craters Road is the best place park to observe the movement of molten lava. Sometimes lava flows can be seen at the end of the road near the ranger station. Usually, it is necessary to walk a few more kilometers along the lava fields. The most spectacular moment is when lava flows into the ocean in the dark, hiding in clouds of steam. Crater Puu Oo erupts fresh lava flows.
Halemaumau crater(Halemaumau crater) is located in the center of the Kilauea caldera. Halemaumau in Hawaiian mythology is the abode of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes. Ancient Hawaiians regularly visited the crater to bring gifts to the almighty goddess. The rising plume of volcanic gas constantly reminds of the seething lava deep within the crater. After sunset, Halemaumau attracts visitors with its bright glow.
Kilauea Iki(Kīlauea Iki) is currently inactive. But in 1959 it was a lake of seething lava, fountains of molten rock rose to a height of 580 m. The crater is 1.6 km long and almost 1 km wide, the bottom is more than 100 meters below the observation deck. Around Kilauea Ica there is a 6 km long circular trail.
Puu Loa petroglyphs(Pu "u Loa petroglyphs) A trail of approximately 2 km from the Chain of Craters Road leads to the largest concentration of ancient petroglyphs in Hawaii. Pu" u Loa petroglyphs are considered sacred place for the native Hawaiians who have carved more than 20,000 designs into the lava surface. The petroglyphs are believed to have perpetuated important events in Hawaiian life. The drawings depict animals, human figures, abstract forms. In the old days, Hawaiians made holes here to hold the umbilical cords of babies and then covered them with stones. According to legend, this gave the child health and longevity. The car park and trailhead are located between the 16 and 17-mile markers along the Chain of Craters Road. A boardwalk has been laid in the area of the petroglyphs. Not all petroglyphs are clearly visible, so as not to trample or damage them, walk on the boardwalk all the time.
Sulfur deposits(Sulfur Banks). In emerging sulfur deposits, volcanic gases seep out of the ground along with steam from groundwater. These gases are rich in carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide (a gas that smells like rotten eggs). Remember - emanating gases from volcanoes are hazardous to health. Visitors with heart or respiratory problems (particularly those with asthma), pregnant women, young children should avoid this visit.
Fumaroles(Steam Vents) - the release of hot steam from the cracks and channels of the volcano. Groundwater seeps down to hot volcanic rocks and returns to the surface as steam. Avoid getting too close to the fumaroles on a cold day, as you will be wet from this Pele Bath.
Roads
Driving is the most popular way to visit the most interesting sites in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The two main roads that visitors will have to travel (Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road) are paved. Currently, 12 km of the Chain of Craters Road near Kalapana is completely covered with lava.
Chain of craters road- 37 km road through the eastern rift zone of the Kilauea volcano and the coast of the Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park. In general, it descends from a height of 1128 m and rests against a lava flow across the road to south coast Big Island of Hawaii. Repeated eruptions of Kilauea volcano between 1986 and 1996 shortened the road by 12 km, covering the coastal area with lava flows, destroyed Kaimu Beach (one of the most beautiful beaches Hawaii), a 12th-century Hawaiian temple, almost completely buried the village of Kalapana. The road has branches, from which a panorama of various volcanic landscapes opens: craters, active and frozen lava flows, columns of gas. The main interest of the trip along this road is the Holei Sea Arch. There is a ranger station at the end of the road. From here, walk a few kilometers along the coast to see the flows of molten lava.
| Crater Rim Drive Map |
Crater rim drive- 18 km ring road around the Kilauea caldera. This 18 km ring road revolves around the summit of the Kilauea caldera and craters, traversing a patch of rainforest and lava desert, stopping at panoramic landscapes and short walking trails. It begins almost immediately after entering the Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park and passes by sulfur deposits (Sulfur Banks), fumaroles (a jet of hot volcanic steam), and the Jagger Museum. From here the road descends through the rift zone to the bottom of the caldera to the Halemaumau crater. Further, the road climbs up and passes the smaller craters Keanakākoi Crater and Kīlauea Iki Crater, through the fern thickets, past the Thurston Lava Tube lava cave and returns to the administrative district of the park. Crater rim drive
What to do, what to do, tours of local operators
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has over 240 km of hiking trails. The trails range from easy (Kipukapuaulu) to long (Mauna Loa Trail) hikes. They not only cross lava fields, but also deserts, rainforests, beaches, and in winter snowy slopes at an altitude of over 4,000 meters. Trail maps and other useful information can be obtained from the Kilauea Visitor Center, open from 7:45 am to 5:00 pm daily. Check the weather before going on a hike, it can be cool and rainy at any time of the year, be prepared for hot sun, cool rain and strong winds. Always use sunscreen and take plenty of drinking water with you. Description of several trails:
Kilauea Iki Trail... The 6 km trail begins in the Information Center area, descends through fern thickets to the Kilauea Iki crater, then crosses the bottom of the crater and passes the funnel where a 36-day fountain of fire-breathing lava erupted in 1959.
Halemaumau Trail. The 5.5 km trail starts at the Information Center, descends to the bottom of the Kilauea caldera and ends at the Halemaumau crater observation deck.
Devastation trail 1 km long allows you to inspect the Kilauea Iki crater, where the volcano erupted in 1959. Hikes with park rangers (free) are offered throughout the day.
Kipuka Puaula (Bird Park) Trail. The 2.5 km trail allows you to see Hawaiian flora and fauna in a small oasis in the middle of lava fields. For some reason, the red-hot lava passed this place and left untouched a section of the forest. The trail starts from Mauna Loa Road. Head out in the early morning or evening (even better immediately after rain) to see Hawaiian birds.
Mauna Loa Trail. This is one of the most challenging hiking trails in Hawaii. The 31 km trail starts at the end of the road and climbs to the top of Mauna Loa (4136 m), where night temperatures drop below zero throughout the year. There is often snow in July. A round trip (3 to 4 days) requires a lot of physical exertion and registration at the Information Center. You will also receive detailed maps route and other necessary information. The trail starts at the end of the Mauna Loa road.
Observing molten lava from Kalapana Cultural Tours. This is one of the few tour operators that provides trips to the place where the fire-breathing lava flows out. The tour starts at about 15:30, first a trip by minibus, then a few kilometers of hike along the old frozen streams to the place where the molten lava flows out. After observing the molten lava (about an hour and a half), return back in the dark. In addition, Kalapana Cultural Tours offers bike tours. Tour Operator Address: 12-5038 Kalapana-Kapoho Rd, Pahoa, Island of Hawaii, HI 96778, www.kalapanaculturaltours.com
Helicopter tours. One of the best helicopter companies is Blue Hawaiian Helicopter (www.bluehawaiian.com). Helicopters take off from the cities of Hilo and Waikoloa (Hilo is cheaper because it is closer). The 50-minute Circle of Fire / Waterfalls tour (with Hilo), in addition to volcanoes, includes sightseeing of waterfalls, valleys and beaches; The 70-minute Big Island Spectacular (with Waikoloa), explores rainforests, waterfalls and volcanoes. If you prefer airplanes over helicopters, try Big Island Air (www.bigislandair.com). The 1-hour excursion from Kona Airport includes sightseeing of all 5 volcanoes on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Weather
The weather in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is extremely variable. At the top of Kilauea (1247 m), the weather changes daily and can be rainy and cold at any time of the year. Temperature varies with altitude. At the top of the volcano, the temperature is 12-15 degrees lower than on the coast. Coastal zone tends to be warm, dry and windy. Come prepared, carry a windbreaker, long pants, closed tops (not sandals).
Where to stay
Volcano Village. Since the formation of the Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park in 1916, the tiny village of Volcano Village has appeared at the entrance to its territory. There are several streets with two shops, several restaurants, a post office, a cafe and a fire department. Volcano Village has no traffic lights, church or cemetery, but it does have a winery (www.volcanowinery.com). Anyone can stop here and taste local wines made from honey and tropical fruits. The village is surrounded by a tropical forest, with a lot of precipitation - 2500 mm per year.
Volcano Village is within 1 km from the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Highway 11, which leads directly to the park, passes next to Volcano Village. If you are going to see Hawaiian volcanoes in detail, you will comfortably spend several days in this village. Rooms can be ordered online at www.emmaspencerliving.com
Small hotel Volcano House overlooking the Halemaumau crater in the Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park was built back in 1846. Even Mark Twain once stayed there during a visit to Hawaii. Website www.hawaiivolcanohouse.com
Campsites
Within the Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park there are two motorist campgrounds (Namakanipaio and Kulanaokuaiki). Camping is free. No advance booking is required, but the stay is limited to 7 days per month.
Camping Namakanipaio located on Highway 11 at an altitude of over 1,000 meters. It is a large open lawn with tall trees. The campsite has toilets, water, picnic tables, barbecue areas.
Camping Kulanaokuaiki located about 8 km along the Hilina Pali Road at an altitude of 820 meters. There is no water in this place. There is a toilet and picnic tables.
Opening hours:
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is open 24 hours a day all year round(including all holidays);
The Kilauea Visitor Center is open daily 07:45 am to 5:00 pm;
The Jagger Museum is open daily from 08:30 to 17:00.
Location
The park is located on the southeastern part of Hawaii's Big Island, 154 km from Kona on Highway 11 and 48 km from Hilo on Highways 19.
Helpful information
The park entrance fee is deducted from Vehicle and cyclists. Keep your ticket, it is valid seven days in a row.
Prepare in advance for your visit. Take food and water with you, there are no outlets in the park. Wear appropriate footwear, long pants, and a jacket.
For safety reasons, stay on the marked trails, pay attention to all warning signs and stay out of the restricted area. Avoid harmful volcanic gases in the park.
Get the latest news at the Kilauea Information Center. National park rangers will tell you where to go and how to get to the hot lava sites.
Finally, set aside plenty of time for your trip. To get the most out of the Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park's highlights, consider staying at Volcano House, nearby Volcano Village or Hilo, just 45 minutes' drive away. Another Big city Kona is 2.5 hours one way.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is located on the Island of Hawaii. Interesting places and tours of local operators of the Island of Hawaii read this link
Residence
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