Thurston Lava Tube.

Thurston Lava Tube

Volcano, Big Island, Hawaii

The Thurston Lava Tube in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is probably the most convenient place for a tourist to experience a large, inactive lava tube. A short path through a fern forest leads to a bridge entering the 600-foot-long natural tunnel. It has been electrically lit, though some tipsters have advised bringing your own flashlight and extra batteries. The moist passageway is from ten to 40 feet high.

Created 350-500 years ago when molten lava from an eruption formed this feeder tube, it was discovered in 1913 by newspaper publisher Lorrin Thurston (the Hawaiian name for the tube is Nahuku).

Thurston Lava Tube

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Address:: 1 Crater Rim Drive, Volcano, Big Island, HI
Directions:: Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, south of Hwy 11 on Crater Rim Drive, watch for signs.
Hours:: Call ahead to make certain that the Tube is open. (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:: 808-985-6000

Nearby Offbeat Places

Volcano Steam Vents, Volcano, Big Island, HI - 2 mi.

Raelian UFO Peace Park, Volcano, Big Island, HI - 4 mi.

Lava Tree State Monument, Pahoa, Big Island, HI - 22 mi.

In the region:

The Naha Stone, Hilo, Big Island, HI - 24 mi.

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