Current volcanic viewing locations and experience

Question

I’ve been monitoring the current volcanic eruption pretty carefully as we arrive February 1. The first possible day for us to get over to the volcanic park is likely February 12. We are on the big island for about five weeks. My question is from someone who has very recent Experience say from January 15 onward what are the crowds like, what is the best time to view it, particularly related to viewing experience, crowd, levels, and parking, and what location or locations Are available with not too long a walk 20 minutes each way

Finally, if anyone has been there very recently and has any comments on the impact on their breathing that would be helpful too. Basically looking for anyone’s experience who has been at the park, and viewed the eruption from January 15 onwards. Mahalo.

Answer

The current volcanic eruption on the Big Island has generated a lot of interest, and it's great that you're planning to visit the Volcanoes National Park in early February. As of mid-January, the eruption at Kīlauea is ongoing, with the best viewing conditions being in the evening or at night when the lava glow is most visible. However, there are several things to consider regarding crowds, parking, viewing locations, and the potential impact on breathing due to volcanic fumes. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect:

Crowds and Parking:

From reports since mid-January, crowds have been moderate to heavy, especially on weekends, since this is one of the major attractions on the Big Island. Since the eruption is a major draw, you may find more visitors around key viewing areas like the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater and the Jaggar Museum overlook. Parking can be a challenge during the busiest times (mid-morning to late afternoon), so if you want to avoid crowds, it’s best to arrive early, ideally before 9 AM or closer to sunset when many people are leaving. There are several parking lots within the park, but the main ones near the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater may fill up quickly during peak times. Consider visiting during weekdays for fewer crowds and easier parking.

Best Time for Viewing:

The best time for viewing the eruption is in the evening and at night. This is when the lava glow is most visible and the eruption is at its most dramatic. Sunset to about 8:00 PM tends to be the sweet spot for clearer views of the lava. During the day, the eruption is still visible, but the lava glow is much less pronounced. Early morning visits can also be good if you're hoping to beat the crowds, though you may miss the glowing lava that’s more visible in the evening. The park is open 24 hours a day, so visiting during off-peak times such as early morning or late evening could provide a more peaceful and less crowded experience.

Viewing Locations and Walks:

Halemaʻumaʻu Crater Overlook: This is the primary viewing area for the eruption and the most popular spot in the park. It's a short walk from the parking area (less than 5 minutes), and you’ll have an excellent view of the erupting crater and lava lake. This spot is accessible without a long hike, making it ideal for those who prefer a shorter walk.
Jaggar Museum Overlook: Another great location with views of the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater. This spot is just a short walk from the parking lot. While the museum is currently closed for repairs, the overlook still provides incredible views of the eruption. It can get crowded, especially during peak hours, but it’s worth checking out at sunrise or sunset for fewer crowds.
Kīlauea Iki Overlook: For those willing to walk a bit farther (about 10-15 minutes), the Kīlauea Iki Overlook provides an excellent view of the crater and surrounding area. The walk isn’t strenuous and can be a good option if you’re looking to stretch your legs without too much effort.
Devastation Trail: If you're interested in a more scenic walk with minimal elevation gain, this trail is about a 0.5-mile loop and provides views of the lava fields and surrounding area. While it doesn’t provide direct views of the lava, it’s an excellent way to experience the aftermath of the eruption and the recovery of the landscape.

Impact on Breathing and Air Quality:

In terms of breathing, volcanic eruptions can emit gases like sulfur dioxide (SO2) that may affect those with respiratory issues. It’s important to be aware of air quality when visiting the park. The National Park Service provides updates on air quality, and if the conditions are bad, they will often close certain areas of the park for safety. For those without respiratory concerns, the gases may not be a major issue, but it’s a good idea to bring a mask or bandana in case the air is hazy or if you’re sensitive to strong smells. The volcanic fumes can be more noticeable at lower elevations, especially near the crater, but most of the park is well-ventilated, and the fumes dissipate fairly quickly with the wind.

Recent Visitor Feedback:

Those who visited between January 15 and January 20 mentioned that the volcanic eruption continues to be an awe-inspiring experience, and many visitors recommend visiting around sunset or early evening for the best views of the lava glow. Visitors reported that the crowds were manageable but began to pick up closer to weekends. As far as the impact on breathing, several people noted that they didn’t experience any major issues, but those who are sensitive to sulfur dioxide mentioned that the air quality at certain viewpoints could feel thick or pungent at times. For most visitors, it’s an experience of a lifetime, and the eruption itself is worth any mild discomfort.

Final Tips:

Check the air quality reports before heading to the park.
Arrive early or late to avoid crowds and secure parking.
Bring a light jacket as temperatures can cool significantly in the evening.
If you’re sensitive to volcanic fumes, consider wearing a mask or scarf.

Overall, the experience of seeing an active volcano is one of the highlights of a visit to the Big Island. Just be mindful of the crowds, parking, and air quality, and plan to visit during off-peak times for the best experience. Enjoy your trip!

Current volcanic viewing locations and experience

More Island of Hawaii Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions