5. Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku)
The Thurston Lava Tube tube was formed by lava cooling at different rates as an eruption took place. The exterior of the lava cooled rapidly while the magma inside continued to pour through it, thus forming a hollow tunnel.
From the eastern section of Crater Rim Road a trail branches off to the Thurston Lava Tube, also signposted as Nāhuku. Park here and take the short trail that leads through a forest. Along the way, you’ll encounter enormous ferns and trees in a lush environment that makes you feel like you’ve dropped into some ancient South American rainforest.
Eventually you’ll reach a giant opening in the ground and descend into the earth. This subterranean adventure will take you through the 492-foot-long lava tube, with an average height of 20 feet. The path through the tube is illuminated.
Parking at the Thurston Lava Tube is very limited, plan to arrive here early or late in the day, or you may be disappointed.
6. Kilauea Visitor Center
The Kilauea Visitor Center lies on the edge of Kilauea Caldera, 550 yards to the left of the entry kiosk to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. In addition to general information packs and maps, suggested routes for walks are available here.
To make the most of your visit, check out the film about the history and development of the volcano and its most recent eruptions. The center also has the latest information on what’s open and closed due to the always evolving volcanic activity.
