Big Island Volcanoes ~ Kilauea Volcano

Kilauea Volcano
Kilauea is the only active volcano on the Big Island and one of the most popular visitor attractions in the state.  Where else on earth can you see flowing lava from only a few feet away?  If there is a surface flow, the hike can be long, hot and exhausting.  Don’t forget your hiking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water and flashlight if staying after dark. For updates, directions and information, please call Volcanoes National park at 808-985-6000 or the Lava Hotline at 808-961-8093.

Kilauea is the home of Pele, the Hawaiian volcano goddess.  The caldera was the site of nearly continuous activity during the 19th century and the early part of this century. Since 1952 there have been 34 eruptions, and since January 1983 eruptive activity has been continuous along the east rift zone.  All told, Kilauea ranks among the world’s most active volcanoes and may even top the list.

Mauna Kea Volcano
Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the Hawaiian chain. Its summit rises to an elevation of 4205m above sea level. The summit is now home to  a dozen powerful telescopes in the world, including Keck and Canada-France-Hawaii and Subaru. Guided tours of the summit are available.  For more information contact the Mauna Kea Visitors Center at 808-961-2180 or visit www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/vis.

Mauna Loa Volcano
Mauna Loa, or “Long Mountain” in Hawaiian, rises 13,680 ft. above sea level. Since 1832, Mauna Loa has erupted 39 times; its last eruption was in 1984.

The lava flow of 1855-1856 is said to be one of the greatest flows ever seen by modern observers. Much of the lava flow can be observed along Highway 19 as you travel north from the Kona Airport.