Lava Tree State Monument facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lava Tree State Monument |
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Lava molds of tree trunks in Lava Tree State Monument
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 Lava Tree State Monument
Location in Hawaii
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| Location | Pāhoa |
| Governing body | State of Hawaii |
Lava Tree State Monument is a special park located near Pāhoa on the island of Hawaii. It's about 2.7 miles (4.3 km) southeast of Pāhoa.
This park protects amazing "lava molds" of tree trunks. These unique shapes were created when a super hot lava flow moved through a forest in 1790. The lava cooled around the trees, leaving behind their exact shapes!
Contents
Exploring the Park
What You'll Find
The park has a fun, easy path that is about 0.7 miles (1.1 km) long. It goes in a loop, so you'll see everything.
Just like all state parks in Hawaii, it's completely free to visit! You don't need to pay for parking or entry.
The park has restrooms and picnic tables where you can relax. There are also three covered areas. These are great spots to get out of the rain or find shade from the sun.
Important Things to Know
Lava Tree State Monument is open every day, but only during daylight hours. There are no lights on the path, so it gets dark after sunset.
You can't camp here, and mountain bikes are not allowed on the path. Also, remember to bring your own water, as there are no water fountains.
The path is paved, but some tree roots have pushed up parts of it. This means the path can be a bit uneven. Younger kids or older visitors might need a little help walking in some spots.
How to Get There
To reach the park, you'll take Highway 130 (also called Keaʻau-Pāhoa Road) towards Pāhoa.
When you get to the traffic light where Pāhoa Bypass Road, Keaʻau-Pāhoa Road, and Pāhoa-Kapoho roads meet, turn left onto Highway 132 (Pāhoa-Kapoho Road).
Drive for about 3 miles (4.8 km) until you see Lava Tree Road on your left. The park entrance will be on your right, just about 150 feet (46 m) down Lava Tree Road.
History of the Lava Trees
The land where the park is now used to be part of a very large ranch owned by William Herbert Shipman.
Even though ancient Hawaiians knew these tree molds were formed by lava, one of the first people to suggest they were from old trees was Rufus Anderson Lyman.
The park had to close in May 2018. This was because of the Kīlauea volcano eruption. Lava flows came very close to the park, making it unsafe for visitors.
Images for kids
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Path
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Lava Trees
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Shelter
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Lava Trees
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Lava Trees
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Lava Trees and path
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Inside view of lava tree with moss
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Large lava tree that fell and broke apart
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Lava tree
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Lava formation inside one of the lava trees
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Plant life
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Plant life
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Orchid growing in the wild
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Plant life near deep cut in the ground
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Plant life with morning dew
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Plant life and moss growing inside trunk of lava tree
