The Otherworldly Hike That Takes You Through Hawaii's Natural Steam Forest

With more than 323,000 acres to explore, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the state’s largest national park – and it’s still growing! The park is also home to Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the world’s most massive subaerial volcano. A trip to this massive national park isn’t complete without a visit to the Kilauea Caldera, a trip down the Thurston Lava Tube, a walk through the lava fields, and a drive down the Chain of Craters Road, and as much hiking as you can manage. In fact, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to more than 150 miles of hiking trails, from easy walks to hikes recommended only for experienced hikers in top physical shape. While all of these hiking trails are phenomenal, this incredible trail leads to a natural steam forest unlike any other.

Located less than a mile from the Kilauea Visitors Center, this otherworldly destination is just one of many unique destinations found within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Groundwater seeps down to the hot volcanic rocks in the area and returns to the surface as steam.

Fencing has been constructed to keep you safe from the burning hot steam that rises from the ground, but be careful!

While you will find shallow-rooted grasses and some small trees close to where the steam rises from the ground, you won’t find many trees. Just a few feet below the surface, the ground is too hot for most tree roots to survive.

Known as Wahinekapu in the Hawaiian language, many people believe in the healing properties of this natural steam forest. Some visit to heal after becoming sick, while others use the natural oasis to release bad toxins or bad vibes after a bad day. Others visit to give offerings to Pele, the goddess of volcanoes and fire.

Though the steam vents are visible from the road, we suggest pulling into the designated parking lot and exploring on foot via the 1.2-mile ‘Iliahi (Sandalwood) Trail.

Just a short walk away is the steaming bluff, a grassy meadow with ground cracks and steam concentrated in fractures along the edge of the caldera.

Along the ‘Iliahin Trail, you’ll meander through a magnificent tropical rainforest where you will find sandalwood trees growing alongside non-native plants while you listen to the singing native birds.

Don't forget to bring your camera! The steam creates an intriguing landscape you likely won't find anywhere else.

If you’re fascinated by volcanoes, a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park isn’t complete without a stroll near these natural steam vents. Where else can you safely feel the heat from Kilauea?

Have you ever experienced the steam vents in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in person before? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below, and then add these 8 lava tubes to your Hawaiian Islands bucket list.

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The Otherworldly Hike That Takes You Through Hawaii's Natural Steam Forest

Megan Shute

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