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Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Top choice in Hawaiʻi the Big Island


Even among Hawaii's many wonders, this national park stands out. Its two active volcanoes testify to the ongoing birth of the islands: quiet Mauna Loa (13,678ft) sprawling above, its unassuming mass downplaying its height, and young Kilauea (4091ft), one of the world's most active volcanoes, providing near-continual sources of awe. The park was closed for several months during the 2018 lower Puna eruption, after which all active lava flows ceased.

At time of research, 90% of the park was reopened but without Pele spitting any fire. Of course, that could change at any moment. If not, the park contains much more beyond eruptions: overwhelming lava deserts, steaming craters, lava tubes and ancient rainforests. For hikers, the possibilities are endless.