Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is situated in Hawaii, on the island of Hawaii. The park includes two active volcanoes, Kīlauea, which is one of the world's most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the largest shield volcano in the world. The park gives scientists insight into the formation of the Hawaiian Islands and offers access to the study of volcanism. For the visitor, the park gives dramatic volcanic scenery, rare flora and fauna, and a look into the traditional Hawaiian culture associated with these landscapes. The national park was originally established on 1 August 1916 as Hawaii National Park, which was then divided into this park and Haleakalā National Park. In honor of its exceptional natural values, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was designated an International Biosphere Reserve in 1980, and in 1987 a World Heritage Site. Highlights of the national park include the Ka'ū Desert, an area of extraordinary lava formations in the rain shadow of Kilauea. Other attractions include the Mauna Loa Trail, which leads to the summit of the Kilauea volcano, the tree fern forest, a dense tropical area irrigated by nearly 2,500 mm of annual rainfall, and the museum in the center of the park. To the northwest of Kilauea is Kipuka Puaulu, also known as the Bird Park, where a trail runs from a grassy meadow interspersed with koa, ohia, soapberry, kolea and mamani trees to an open forest with many indigenous tree species. The park is rich in tropical birds, and introduced wildlife includes mongooses, wild goats and pigs, as well as pheasants and quail.