Kilauea Volcano, found within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, is not only the youngest shield volcano in the state, but one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The volcano is also experiencing one of the most long-lived eruptions known to man – the eruption began in 1983 on the eastern rift zone, and continues to this day. And while witnessing the fiery light of Kilauea caldera or watching lava pour into the sea on a boat tour, there is an incredible hike that leads you on a journey across the Kalapana lava fields straight to flowing lava.

There are very few places on this planet where you can watch flowing lava in person, and even fewer where you can walk right up to it. Kalapana is the safest and easiest to access.
Jeff Moore/Flickr
Witnessing flowing lava up close and personal is perhaps one of the greatest experiences you will have in your lifetime - and will create memories you won’t soon forget.
Bruce Albrecht/Flickr
Not only might you see flowing lava, but you’ll be walking along the youngest land you’ve ever set foot on - which is pretty unbelievable, if you ask me.
Sharkhats/Flickr
There are two paths you can take: one from the east at Kalapana and one from the west, near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Sheila Sund/Flickr

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Each path to the lava flow is approximately four to five miles one way on an unpaved road with loose gravel and hardened lava fields.
Ryan Lackey/Flickr
Be sure to wear hiking boots, and pack sunscreen and plenty of water.
Kurt Johnson/Flickr
While you can do this hike by yourself, it is recommended to book a guided hiking tour with one of the many reputable companies in the area.
Jeff Moore/Flickr
These guides are not only knowledgeable about the volcano in general, but know the terrain intimately, and you will ultimately be safer - and probably get cooler views, too!
Not interested in hiking? Check out bike rentals or a lava boat tour.
Aaron Smith/Flickr
Whatever way you choose to check out the lava flowing into the ocean at Kalapana, you should ultimately be reminded of the unstoppable force of nature.
Jeff Moore/Flickr

The flow depends on the day – so check out the National Park Service’s website for up to date information about the lava flow. Some days will obviously be more worth it than others depending on the level of lava flowing across lava fields – or into the ocean.

Love exploring Hawaii’s volcanic past? Take a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and check out these 10 incredible hikes to Hawaii’s coolest lava formations.

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