Hawaii’s Big Island is home to one of the most mesmerizing and active geological features in the world: Volcano National Park. This incredible natural wonder offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of nature through its volcanic landscapes, erupting lava flows, and awe-inspiring geological formations. If you're a nature enthusiast, a geology lover, or simply someone looking for an unforgettable adventure, Volcano National Park should be at the top of your bucket list.

Kilauea Volcano

In late December 2024, Kīlauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes located on Hawaii's Big Island, began a new eruption within its summit caldera, Halemaʻumaʻu Crater. The eruption featured vigorous lava fountaining, with lava jets reaching heights of up to 100 feet, and lava flows covering significant portions of the crater floor.  This activity marked the sixth eruption within the caldera since 2020. The eruption experienced multiple pauses, with activity ceasing completely on January 3, 2025, after more than a week of continuous lava fountaining.  Throughout the eruption, volcanic gas emissions remained elevated, contributing to vog (volcanic smog) across the island, especially during periods of light and southerly winds.  

It has been erupting on and off since then. Unfortunately, when my husband and I were on the island it had stopped erupting. This is a picture from the National Park website that show the eruption. 

A Glimpse Into History: The Birth of Volcano National Park

Volcano National Park is not just a stunning visual experience—it’s also a place rich in history. Established in 1916, this park is one of the oldest national parks in the United States. It covers more than 330,000 acres of land and is home to two of the most active volcanoes on Earth: Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. The park sits atop the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a region known for frequent seismic and volcanic activity.

The area is deeply sacred to Native Hawaiians, who have lived on the islands for centuries. They consider Kīlauea and its goddess Pele as central to their creation myths and their cultural identity. Pele, the goddess of fire and volcanoes, is said to live within the volcano’s fiery depths. Hawaiian legends are intertwined with the volcano’s eruptions, giving the park a spiritual and cultural significance that transcends the scientific.

Steam Vents

One of the most intriguing features at Volcano National Park is the steam vents, which offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of an active volcano. As geothermal heat escapes from the earth's surface, hot steam rises from the ground in swirling clouds, creating an ethereal and somewhat mystical atmosphere. Located near the Kīlauea Caldera, these steam vents are part of the park’s ongoing volcanic activity. The smell of sulfur in the air adds to the otherworldly experience, reminding visitors of the immense power that lies beneath their feet.

For many, standing near the steam vents feels like witnessing nature’s breath, as the earth itself seems to exhale the heat and energy that drive the eruptions. The steam vents are a striking reminder of the constant volcanic activity that shapes the landscape of Volcano National Park, offering a moment to reflect on the dynamic and ever-changing nature of this incredible geological site.

Thurston Lava Tube: A Journey Beneath the Earth's Surface

For those who want to experience the volcanic landscape in a more intimate and interactive way, a visit to the Thurston Lava Tube is a must. This ancient tunnel, formed by flowing lava that solidified on the surface while the molten rock continued to flow beneath, allows visitors to walk through a section of this “lava highway.”

Located just a short hike from the Kīlauea Visitor Center, Thurston Lava Tube is an otherworldly experience. The tube, which is about 500 feet long, takes you on a journey through dark, damp, and eerily quiet passageways. As you walk through the tube, you’ll notice the walls covered with intricate patterns of hardened lava, as well as the thick vegetation that grows in the moist environment. The vibrant green ferns and moss contrast starkly against the dark, volcanic rock, making for a truly surreal experience.

I wrote a full blog on the Thurston Lava tube which you can read and see many more pictures.

The Old Lava Flows: How Volcanoes expanded the island

One of the most fascinating aspects of Volcano National Park is the chance to see the remnants of old lava flows that have helped shape the Big Island over the centuries. As the lava from eruptions flows over the land, it spreads out and creates new areas of solidified rock, effectively expanding the island’s size.

These old lava flows, which stretch across various parts of the park, create a stark contrast to the lush green forests and the vibrant ocean. Some of these flows are thousands of years old, and many are still visible today, offering insight into the long history of volcanic activity on the island.

For example, you can walk across the remnants of the 1974 lava flow, which was one of the more recent eruptions in Kīlauea’s history. While the flow may seem lifeless at first, the way it contrasts with the surrounding environment gives it a haunting beauty. The slow but constant expansion of the island is a testament to the powerful forces at work beneath the surface.

Lava Flow to the Ocean: Nature’s Dramatic Performance

One of the most mesmerizing experiences at Volcano National Park is watching lava flow from Kīlauea and spill into the Pacific Ocean. This awe-inspiring spectacle has been happening for centuries, though with varying intensity. When the conditions are right, you can see lava cascading down cliffs into the ocean, sending up clouds of steam and creating new land in the process.

In recent years, the lava flow has been less predictable, but when it does occur, it’s an unforgettable sight. Visitors can witness the “birth” of new land as lava cools and solidifies into black basalt rock, making the oceanfront a constantly changing landscape. Depending on volcanic activity, there are often safe viewing areas where you can stand and observe this geological phenomenon from a distance. The vibrant contrast of glowing orange lava against the dark ocean waters is a sight you won’t easily forget.

Holei Sea Arch: Nature’s Majestic Artwork

Another iconic feature within the park is the Holei Sea Arch. This stunning natural archway, carved by the relentless forces of the ocean, stands at the end of Chain of Craters Road. Over millions of years, the powerful waves of the Pacific have eroded the basalt lava rock, creating this impressive arch.

Standing at the viewing area, you can see the arch rise above the waves, creating a dramatic juxtaposition between the rock and the ocean below. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some native wildlife in the area, including seabirds and marine life. The Holei Sea Arch is a testament to the forces of erosion and the ever-changing nature of the island’s landscape.

Planning Your Visit to Volcano National Park

A visit to Volcano National Park offers an unforgettable look at Earth’s dynamic processes and the forces that shape our planet. Whether you’re standing in awe of a lava flow cascading into the ocean, wandering through the eerie darkness of the Thurston Lava Tube, or gazing at the majestic Holei Sea Arch, the park offers a rich and diverse experience that appeals to adventurers, nature lovers, and history buffs alike.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Safety: Always check with the park rangers for current volcanic activity and trail conditions before heading out. Lava flows and other hazards can change rapidly, and safety is a top priority.
• Best Time to Visit: The park is open year-round, but if you're hoping to catch active lava flows, check for up-to-date eruption activity online or at the visitor center.
• Hiking: Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and be prepared for different types of terrain. The park offers various hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks.
• Respect the Environment: Volcanoes are sacred to the Hawaiian people, so be sure to respect the cultural and environmental significance of the park.

Final Thoughts

A visit to Volcano National Park on the Big Island is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers visitors the chance to connect with both nature and history in a way few other places can. From watching lava flow into the ocean to walking through ancient lava tubes, the park provides an unparalleled glimpse into the power and beauty of our planet’s dynamic processes. Whether you’re exploring the trails or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, Volcano National Park will leave you with memories and a deep appreciation for the forces that continue to shape this incredible part of the world.

My Camera

Many people have asked what camera I use for travel photography. I recently switched to a Leica Q3, which is compact yet powerful tool that combines the best of modern technology with the classic feel of Leica’s legacy. Equipped with a 47.3-megapixel full-frame sensor and a sharp 28mm f/1.7 lens, it delivers stunning image quality. You can read about my blogs on choosing this camera on my website. 

Debbi Marquette Photography is located in Upstate New York at the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains. Debbi is an award winning and published travel, landscape and bald eagle photographer specializing in artistic, authentic, and memorable landscape and wildlife photography. She travels frequently, lives near the mountains and constantly has a camera in her hand to capture photographs so others can see the beauty of our world.

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