Saturday, March 12, 2011

HAWAI'I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK!

From the last state to join the Union, Hawaii, comes another testimony of earth’s spectacular landscapes.  The Hawaiian Islands exist because of volcanic activity.  It is a pleasant vacation destination with beaches, forests, warm climate, and craters.  Biking and hiking give visitors the best views of the volcanic landscapes.  Another option to view the landscape is by driving on the Crater Rim Drive, for example.  This will take tourists around part of the caldera and through rainforests and deserts.  It is even available for some to hike down into the crater!  On this drive, one will view both Mauna Loa and Kilauea Caldera which is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. 


In some areas of the Hawaiian Islands the volcanoes have deposited rough landscapes of lava.  In others, such as Kipukapuaulu, the activity of the volcano left rich soil and thriving forests.  This rainforest is filled with colorful plants, animal, birds, and insects. 

Recently cooled lava flows can be seen at Mauna Ulu; the last eruption took place in 1973.  Here one can view both pahoehoe and ‘a‘a lava flows.  Hikers can even ascend the Pu’u Huluhulu cone. 


 In Kilauea Crater, one can walk across a crater that once was a molten lava lake.  The latest eruption here was in 1959. 


During your visit to the Hawaiian Islands, do not just head for the beach; go and explore the rest Hawaii has to offer! 

http://www.botany.hawaii.edu/faculty/bridges/bigisland/KipukaPuaulu/MGlory100.jpg
http://i.pbase.com/g3/01/34201/2/54500308.P1028037b.jpg
http://www.traveltohawaiireviewed.com/image_attraction/bigisland/attractions/Kilauea_Crater/800/Kilauea_Crater_2.jpg

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