According to Hawaiian legends, Hawaii's Big Island is the home of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire. For many years Pele shaped and formed her new abode, using red-hot lava to create her unique fortress. Early Hawaiians respected and honored Pele, and made offerings to please her or placate her wrath. Today Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (HVNP) is the country's 13th National Park and our state's #1 visitor attraction. It was created to preserve the regions unique volcanic features, its early human history and the plant and animal life that is part of this special bioregion.

HVNP is located 30 miles southwest of Hilo and 96 miles southeast of Kona. It's open year-round, 24 hours a day. Once inside the park, you will experience life and growth and creation of the most amazing kind. Make your first stop the Kilauea Visitor Center at the park's entrance. Chat with the rangers, get an update on the current flow conditions and pick up safety tips. Then begin your journey into one of the most fascinating and awesome regions on earth. Some of the sites which are a must-see are the Jagger Museum, the Thurston Lava Tube, Volcano House, Halema'uma'u Crater, steam vents, and sulphur banks, just to name a few.

A hike down to the current lava flow offers a once in a lifetime chance to view Mother Nature at work up close. Kilauea is the world's most active volcano. The current eruption began January 3, 1983 and is the largest and longest eruption in history. There is no indication when she will stop. The best way to view the lava flow on land is to drive to the new lava viewing area at the end of Highway 130. This is outside the HVNP and will take approximately one hour for the drive from the park to the parking area. Then be prepared for a two mile round trip hike over rugged lava. Wear comfortable walking shoes (sandals or slippers are NOT recommended), bring water, a light jacket and if you're planning on nighttime viewing, a flashlight is a must. Use caution and common sense and traverse only where designated. Visitors cannot find the words to describe the feelings and emotions they experience when viewing this most spectacular phenomenon. This is one memory you will carry with you for years to come.