Driving the scenic Chain of Craters Road in Hawaii
Chain of Craters Road is an amazing drive located on the island of Hawaii, in USA, that will take you from 4,000 feet to sea level and back again. Stretching 19 miles, the road is an exceptionally scenic and spectacular drive.
How long is the Chain of Craters Road?
Located within the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park the paved but winding road is 19-mile (31 km) long. It is a two-wheel drive roadway and do not require 4wd vehicles. The road opened in 1965, and was partly buried in 1969 at the start of the Maunaulu eruption. After the eruption, the road was realigned and reopened in June 1979.
Where does Chain of Craters Road start and end?
This scenic drive will take you from an altitude of 4,000 feet to sea level and back again. The road runs from Crater Rim Drive, at 4,091-foot Kīlauea Summit, and ends on a parking lot where the lava crosses the road at the ocean. For several miles, Chain of Craters Road traverses lava that was laid down about 40 years ago; remnants of the old road can still be seen in spots. Since 1968 it dead ends where it's buried by lava from varied flows.
Is the Chain of Craters Road steep?
The road is pretty steep, descending 3700 feet (1,128 m) from the summit of Kilauea volcano to the sea. Portions of the road descend over 3,000 feet fairly quickly and there is one hairpin turn - but in general, driving is not a problem.
Is the Chain of Craters Road dangerous?
Drive slowly, especially in foggy or rainy conditions and do exercise caution if it rains, as the wet road can be slippery in spots. It can be closed anytime because the volcanic activity in this area is unpredictable and can be hazardous under poor conditions. Moreover, because of the dangers posed by an active volcano, the government is posting a daily conditions report which should be checked before driving Chain of Craters Road or taking any of its offshoots or trails. Prepare for hot, windy and rainy weather. Flashlights are essential after dark for each person. Volcanic fumes are often present in this part of the park. From the ranger station, the road continues as a pedestrian walkway accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. The road has had parts covered by lava in 41 of the past 53 years, due to eruptions of Kīlauea volcano. An increase in the venting of sulfur dioxide gas in 2008 led to the closing of Chain of Craters Road for a short while.
How long does it take to drive the Chain of Craters Road?
The road is curvy, so expect 45 minutes without any stop. But plan at least 2.5 hours (round trip) are required for this drive, preferably a bit more. This drive will reveal the true youth of Big Island and the reality that it is still being born. This scenic drive along the East Rift Zone of the volcano in HVNP is pock marked with craters of varying shapes and sizes, lava flows, petroglyphs, and, possibly, active lava. Along this road you will also find many interesting hikes and breathtaking vistas.
Is the Chain of Craters Road remote?
There are no provisions for food, water, or fuel available along the road. As there are no services provided, it is essential to ensure that you have an ample supply of gasoline in your vehicle and enough water for hydration.