One of our users emailed us the following question:
Can you tell me if it’s currently (and has been recently) possible to hike to the lava flow & see it relatively close up? Or is the only way to see it via helicopter?
Thanks, Dan
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Answer:
Dan, Because the volcano lava flow is so unpredictable, the best thing to do is check the latest Kilauea volcano lava flow update, or call the Park at (808)985-6000. You can also view a map of the most current lava flow.
Depending on the conditions, you MAY be able to view lava/volcanic activity at one, some, all, or none of the below:
a.) Red-glowing vent/smoke plume from the Halemaumau Crater vent (Crater Rim Drive).
b.) Ocean entry lava flow - a 1-3 mile hike from the end of Chain of Craters Road.
c.) Surface and/or ocean entry lava flow north of the Park - accessible via county road outside of the Volcanoes National Park.
Check out our Kilauea Lava Flow web page for more details.
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Just wondering if it is possible to see lava flows without long hikes or from the air. I am Sr citizen and could possibly walk maybe up to a mile as long as it is not hot and humid. Which island should I be considering for something like this?
Sindi,
The location and viewing conditions of the Kilauea Volcano lava flow do vary almost day-to-day. Most of the visitors that view the lava flow are either hiking (several miles over uneven terrain) or viewing from a tour helicopter. However, there is a third option that might be of interest to you…
There is at least one boat tour provider that will take visitors on a boat ride after sunset to view the lava flow ocean entry from boat. We have never done this tour so I can’t personally speak to it, but it does look interesting… Check out their official website.