VNP with mobility limitations
We will be there in November and are travelling in a group of four. One is a 78-year-old woman who has a tendency to stumble when she's not careful and also needs frequent bathroom stops, and another has a bad ankle and has trouble with balance and ground that isn't level (especially going downhill). But two are geology nerds, who are really wanting to make the most of VNP. I'm trying to figure out how to balance our trip. Should we attempt or avoid the Thurston Lava Tube and the Pu‘uloa Petroglyphs?
Visiting Volcanoes National Park (VNP) with mobility limitations can be a little challenging, but there are definitely ways to balance the trip so that everyone can enjoy the park's amazing geology while keeping everyone comfortable. Since you have a mix of interests—geology nerds wanting to explore, and family members with mobility concerns—there are options to accommodate all needs. Here's a breakdown for your group:
1. Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku): The Thurston Lava Tube is one of the most iconic features at VNP and is often recommended to visitors. The tube is located along a short, paved trail (about 0.3 miles round-trip) through a lush rainforest. While the trail is paved, it does have some uneven spots, and the ground can be slippery, especially after rain.
- For the 78-year-old woman with mobility limitations: If she can walk carefully and hold onto the railings, the trail is manageable, though caution is needed. There are benches along the path, and there is some opportunity to stop and rest. If balance is a concern, you could consider using a walking aid like a cane or a walker, but the path is narrow in some places, so that might make it difficult to navigate.
- For the person with ankle issues: The paved path should be okay, but uneven spots can be problematic, especially downhill. If balance is a concern, it might be best to take this trail slowly or consider skipping it.
- For the geology enthusiasts: The Lava Tube itself is worth seeing, as it's a great example of volcanic activity. Once inside the tube, it's flat and easy to walk through, but it can be dark, so make sure to bring a flashlight if you want to explore more of the tube.
If you're concerned about walking the whole trail, you can always plan to visit the Lava Tube, take a short walk in, and turn around when you're ready. There is also a parking lot right near the entrance, so the walk to the tube itself isn’t too far.
2. Pu‘uloa Petroglyphs: The Pu‘uloa Petroglyphs are located along a short trail, but unlike the Lava Tube, this trail is not paved and can be challenging for people with mobility issues. The trail is about 0.7 miles round-trip and is on uneven, rocky terrain. There are also steep areas, and the surface can be unstable, which could pose difficulties for someone with balance or ankle concerns.
- For the 78-year-old woman with mobility limitations: This trail might be too difficult, especially due to the uneven terrain. It would be best to avoid this one unless you're willing to take it slow and have someone help with navigation.
- For the person with a bad ankle: This trail could be challenging due to the uneven ground, so it's likely better to skip it as well.
- For the geology enthusiasts: The petroglyphs themselves are fascinating and worth seeing, but due to the difficult terrain, you may need to reconsider how much of the trail you wish to attempt. There is a viewing area near the beginning of the trail, so you can still see some petroglyphs without going too far.
3. Other Accessible Features at VNP: If the Lava Tube and Petroglyphs seem too difficult, there are other great experiences at VNP that can be more accessible for those with mobility concerns:
- Crater Rim Drive: This is a scenic drive that takes you around the edge of Kīlauea caldera. There are several stops along the way where you can get out of the car and take short, flat walks to view the crater and the surrounding area. This is a great option for those who want to see the park but don't want to walk on uneven trails.
- Steam Vents and Sulphur Banks: This area is very close to the main visitor center and offers an easy walk to view the steam vents and volcanic fumaroles. The path is relatively flat and not too long, making it a good option for those with mobility issues.
- Jaggar Museum Overlook: The museum and its overlook provide great views of the Halema'uma'u Crater. The museum itself has educational displays, and the viewpoint is accessible with a short walk from the parking lot.
4. Rest Stops and Facilities: VNP is equipped with good visitor facilities, including restrooms, which are located near the visitor center, near the Thurston Lava Tube, and at other key points along Crater Rim Drive. This will help ensure that the person needing frequent bathroom stops can feel comfortable during the trip.
5. Suggestions for Balance: - It sounds like you’re trying to balance the needs of your group, and the key will be to plan carefully. Consider sticking to the easier, paved trails for the person with mobility limitations and ensuring frequent breaks. - For the geology enthusiasts, there are plenty of viewpoints, drives, and stops where they can get their fill of the park’s geological wonders without having to navigate difficult terrain. - If you're unsure about a particular trail, it might be helpful to scout out the area once you arrive to assess how difficult the walk may be, and don’t hesitate to turn back if the trail becomes too challenging.
Overall, while some areas of VNP may present challenges for your group, there are still many ways to enjoy the park’s beauty and geology, even with mobility limitations. Just plan for some flexibility and enjoy the experience at a pace that works for everyone!
