Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park
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Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park contains parts of Kilauea and
Mauna Loa, two of the most active volcanoes on Earth. Kilauea has been
erupting on its east rift zone nearly continuously since 1983. The
eruption is the longest and most voluminous in historic time in Hawai'i.
Mauna Loa, the most massive mountain on Earth, rises 30,000 feet from
the sea floor and occupies a volume of 10,000 cubic miles. It surpasses
Mount Everest by more than a thousand feet in elevation. Mauna Loa erupts
frequently. The most recent eruption was in 1984. These volcanoes are
atestament to the Earth's dynamic and ever changing nature. Scientists continue to
observe and study the active volcanism in this park. The research that is
being done at both Kilauea and Mauna Loa
is increasing our knowledge and understanding of the Earth's interior. |
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As time has progressed, the Pacific tectonic plate has inched
along and new islands have appeared. Starting at the sea floor and
making its way to the surface, the molten lava bursts forth and forms small
islands. These new islands will grow over the years by adding layer
upon layer of molten rock. They will eventually be covered by lush
vegetation that will provide habitat to unique wildlife. Hawaii Volcanoes
National Park is an area that has been set aside to showcase this magnificent
process and all its beauty.
Much information about the park can be found at the Kilauea
Visitor Center. Trained staff are available to provide information
about roads, trails, wildlife, vegetation, volcanic activity, safety
precautions and educational programs in the park. Publications
describing the park are available from the Hawaii Natural History
Association.
For more information write:
Superintendent
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii National Park, HI 96718
or call: 1-808-967-7311
Current Volcanic Activity Line:
1-808-967-7977
Source of information:
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park pamphlet, U.S. National Park Service.
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