Planning Your Visit
Essential information for a safe and memorable volcanic adventure
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When Kilauea Wakes Up
Current Eruption Status
The current eruption at Kilauea started around December 23, 2024. Scientists call it "episodic" because it starts and stops. The volcano might shoot lava 1,100 feet high for hours, then go quiet for days.
All the action happens inside Halemaumau crater. You can see it safely from overlooks around the summit. But you need to know if it's active before you drive up.
Check These Sources Before Your Visit
USGS Observatory
The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory gives daily updates on what the volcano is doing. Their scientists watch every rumble and gas release.
Park Webcams
The park's webcams show live views of the crater. You can see if lava glows in the crater before you make the drive.
NPS App
The free National Park Service app sends alerts about closures and safety info right to your phone.
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Construction Changes Everything
Two-Year Improvement Project
A massive two-year project is fixing and improving park facilities. The famous Jaggar Museum is gone. The main Kilauea Visitor Center is closed until summer 2026.
Current Facility Changes
- • Temporary Welcome Center: Now at Kilauea Military Camp (9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. daily)
- • New Roundabout: Being built at park entrance with detours and gravel roads
- • Speed Limit: Strictly 5 mph in construction zones
- • Parking: Fills up fast at popular spots - arrive before 9 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
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The Air You Breathe
VOG and Air Quality
Volcanoes make beautiful lava, but they also make dangerous gases. VOG means volcanic smog. It's sulfur dioxide mixed with tiny particles that can hurt your lungs.
Pele's Hair Warning
When winds blow the gas cloud around, it can drop Pele's Hair. These are thin glass strands that cut your skin. Never touch them.
Most healthy adults can handle normal VOG levels. But pregnant women, babies, kids, and people with heart or lung problems need to be extra careful.
Check Air Quality Before You Visit
Hawaii VOG Dashboard
Real-time air quality and where the gas cloud is moving.
Park Air Quality
Data from monitors inside the park boundaries.
AirNow.gov
EPA pollution levels for the entire region.
If you see ash in the air, an N95 mask helps your lungs. But masks don't stop dangerous gases. The best protection is staying inside or leaving the area when air quality is bad.
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What to Bring
Essential Gear for Your Visit
The park entrance costs $30 per vehicle. Your pass works for seven days. The park stays open 24 hours, so you can see lava glow against the night sky.
The summit sits at 4,000 feet. It's often 12 to 15 degrees colder than the coast. Rain can start anytime. Dress in layers.
Pack These Essentials
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Good Walking Shoes or Boots
Shoes that cover your feet completely. Sharp lava rock cuts through thin soles.
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Rain Gear & Warm Clothes
Rain gear that actually works. Cheap ponchos tear in the wind. Bring fleece or jacket for the cold summit.
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Plenty of Water & Snacks
You'll get thirsty walking on dark rock that soaks up heat.
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Sun Protection
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The high altitude intensifies UV rays.
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Flashlight or Headlamp
With extra batteries. You need this for night viewing and exploring Nahuku lava tube after hours.
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N95 Mask
Protection against volcanic ash and particles in the air.
Gear Rental Options
If you come unprepared, some local shops rent gear:
- • Lava Glow Adventures (Volcano village): Binoculars, warm clothes, and waterproof gear for lava viewing
- • Recreation Lodge (Kilauea Military Camp): Equipment rental inside the park
✅ Planning Checklist
- Check eruption status
- Monitor air quality
- Pack warm clothes
- Bring hiking boots
- Download NPS app
- Plan parking strategy
⏰ Best Times
Parking
Before 9 AM or after 4 PM
Lava Viewing
Evening for best glow visibility
Weather
Morning for clearest conditions
Crowds
Weekdays less busy than weekends
🚨 Emergency Info
Park Emergency
Call 911
Park Information
(808) 985-6011
Road Conditions
(808) 961-5797
