Active Lava Flow
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| | Difficulty:POI 2A II R (v1a1 II) Raps:0
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19.3257, -155.0542
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Waterflow
Introduction[edit]
To stroll among flowing rivers of lava is one of the most surreal adventures one can experience. The volcano in the Big Island of Hawaii has been in an almost constant state of eruption since 1980. The active rivers of lava may not look like much during the day, but at night they put up their characteristic red glow in all their glory with spectacular displays when any big wave crashes on the rivers of lava producing an explosion of molten rock that can match the best chinese pyrotechnics.
Approach[edit]
The best way to visit the lava flows is to start the hike at the end of the day and plan to reach the flow around sunset (6pm all year around), have a romantic dinner watching the pyrotechnics and be prepared to come back in the dark.
Sometimes the active lava flows are best approached from the west parking (Volcano National Park), sometimes from the east parking (Kapaahu), depends on where the flow goes that week. You will have to check current state of the flows online to decide the best point of approach. Current conditions: http://www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/lava2.htm
Descent[edit]
It is best to try to follow the old road, which has been mostly covered by lava but still has some pristine patches here and there. Just hike cross country over old lava flows towards the big white columns of steam produced by lava dropping into the ocean. It can take about 2h to reach active molten lava, depending on where the current volcano eruption is flowing. Sometimes you may be hiking on unstable terrain, possibly with lavatubes underneath you, so be extremely careful. If you are in a group, just follow in single column rather than scattering around.
Near the ocean the flows are spectacular at night and they put up majestic firework displays. You can enjoy for hours, but keep an eye on possible quick exits if the flows upstream change. Do not get too close to the water as the cliffs are unstable. The lava cliffs, not the lava, has actually caused most tragedies among hikers.
If you are more adventurous, purchasing a shovel in Hilo and carrying it with you to the lava flow will allow you to carefully shovel clumps of flowing lava from the flow and play with it, rather than just observing with your eyes. A truly amazing experience.
Exit[edit]
It is imperative that you are prepared to come back in the dark through rough crumbly terrain. A couple of headlamps and gps are highly recommended.
Red tape[edit]
The National Park discourages people from approaching the active lava flows because considered dangerous for the public, and they are absolutely right! If you hike to the lava flows you shall do so at your own risk.
