With the world’s most active volcano located right in the middle of the island, plus serveral other active volcanoes nearby, how can you safely explore the Big Island of Hawaii without worrying about the hazards these volcanoes pose? The 200,000 people who call the island home manage, and so can you, by simply following these basic volcano safety tips.
Volcanoes are a living part of nature; some of them are still brewing deep within the Earth and threatening to become active at any moment. The Big Island of Hawaii is home to Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, which, since December 2024, has been experiencing a lengthy eruption that pauses and starts again frequently.
Thankfully the eruption has been confined to the Halemaumau Crater and has not threatened local communities. However, conditions can shift quickly, and it is more important than ever to follow the basic volcano safety tips whenever exploring the Big Island.
5 Essential Volcano Safety Tips
1. Heed the Park’s own Warnings & Volcano Safety Tips
The most important volcano safety tip is to follow any precautions the National Park Service has in place on the day you visit. Conditions can change quickly and without warning. If you decide to explore these behemoths on your own, be sure to keep a keen eye out for any warnings.
Kilauea trails take you close to the volcano, close enough that you’ll want to pay close attention to warning signs across the trails. If you see a sign that says an area is closed, assume that it’s closed for your own safety, and it’s best to heed the warning. Follow all National Park Service volcano safety tips when visiting.
On your trek, you may come across side paths and areas that seem to offer a better view or bring you deeper into beautiful, lush vegetation. While you may instinctively want to follow these paths for the best experience, you must stick to marked trails. These paths are marked for your safety and are deemed best for curious travelers. Follow all the volcano safety tips even when tempted to go off trail!
2. Use Caution When Hiking
Another important volcano safety tips is to follow the signs and keep to marked trails is the best way to stay as safe as possible. When you decide to hike is also important. Lava rock is somewhat unstable, so it is important to stick to the trails and use caution when walking on lava fields or other areas where there is no designated trail.
While the thought of exploring at night under the bright stars is enticing, it’s not recommended. Beneath the moonlight, certain features of a hiking trail may be covered in shadows, cloaking dangerous cracks and cliffs. Even the best portable lighting isn’t as useful as the bright daytime sun.
It’s best to hike earlier in the morning, before the sun is at its strongest. Most of the trails are without shade, especially if you hike to the caldera floor.
3. Come Prepared
Whenever you hike, regardless of where you should bring plenty of water and wear comfortable but sturdy shoes and lightweight clothing that covers your arms and legs. Lava can be very solid and sharp, and falling on it without added layers can cause serious injuries. Sun protection, rain protection, and warm layers may be needed on the same visit. Wear layers and bring a backpack so you can peel them off or put them on whenever the weather shifts.
Always carry something for outside communication, whether it’s a radio or a cell phone. Hike with a partner, and if traveling solo, consider joining a hiking tour. The park employs fewer than 80 full-time staff members for a park that is 500 square miles large. You cannot assume one will be nearby if you experience an emergency.
4. Monitor the Weather and Air Quality
The weather in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park can change quickly. It is important to check the weather before heading to the park and pay attention to the weather while you are there. Likewise, hazardous gases from the volcano pose a threat, especially for people with respiratory issues, the elderly, children, and pregnant women. The presence of Pele’s hair, strands of windblown volcanic glass, can also pose a threat.
5. Stay Safe with Volcano Tours
Organized volcano tours don’t take anything away from experiencing these giant natural structures and can actually enhance the journey with the added benefit of having an experienced guide.
One of the most thrilling ways to explore the volcanoes of Hawaii is by helicopter. Not only will you get a view of the volcanoes that you simply can’t see from the ground, you’ll also get a birds-eye view of the wondrous natural beauty that makes up the islands of Hawaii. You still should follow the volcano safety tips when you’re with a guide, but it is a little easier when you have ssomeone who will show you the way.
Finally, if there’s one universal piece of advice aside from the volcano safety tips, it’s that you definitely want to bring a camera with you.