It displays the results of hundreds of thousands of years of volcanism, migration, and evolution-processes that thrust a bare land from the sea and clothed it with complex and unique ecosystems and a distinct human culture. The park encompasses diverse environments that range from sea level to the summit of the earth's most massive volcano, Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet. KÄ«lauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, offers scientists insights on the birth of the Hawaiian Islands and visitors' views of dramatic volcanic landscapes. The park includes 505 mi² (1348 km²) of land.

Over half of the park is designated wilderness and provides unusual hiking and camping opportunities. In recognition of its outstanding natural values, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has been designated as an International Biosphere Reserve in 1980 and a World Heritage Site in 1987[1].

The volcanic activity generated in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park helped create Kalapana (now covered by lava from recent eruptions) and other black sand beaches.

Within the park boundaries are the Thurston Lava Tube, a lava tube approximately 540 years old with a short hiking trail running through it, and the KÄ«lauea Caldera, skirted by the Volcano House Hotel, the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, and the Jaggar Museum.

Wikipedia articles for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

• Hawai?i Volcanoes National Park
• Hawaii Volcanoes
• Pauahi (crater)