Eruption Viewing

Eruption Update

The eruption within Halema'uma'u crater at the summit of Kīlauea volcano paused on 4/2/25. No molten lava or night-time glow is visible at this time. Volcanic conditions can change at any time.

The USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory issues Volcano Updates for Kīlauea (external link)

 

 

Live view of the ongoing eruption within Halemaʻumaʻu crater. Use the webcam to determine current volcanic activity.

• When the volcano is active, you can observe bright eruptions, flowing lava, and a strong glow, especially at night.
• During a pause, volcanic activity is minimal, with little to no eruptions, though a faint glow at night from residual lava may still be visible.

 

Where are the Best Eruption Viewing Locations?

The current eruption within Halema'uma'u crater can be seen from various overlooks along Crater Rim Drive. Although lava may be visible within the national park, conditions can change at any time. Changes in the eruptive activity and weather conditions such as fog or rain often prevent any eruption viewing. Consider factors such as viewing experience, long waits and crowds, hiking ability, and available time when selecting where to view the eruption. Check out the park map and download the new NPS mobile app to help you navigate during your visit.

 

Lava can be seen at numbered areas listed below. Park at designated overlooks and parking areas for the best views of the eruption.

 

1. Uēkahuna

Where to park: Uēkahuna.
Walking distance: Eruption is visible from the west overlook of Uēkahuna parking area.
Eruption distance from overlook: 1 mile.
View: Fountains of molten lava burst into the air from a lava lake. A red glow is visible at night.
Amenities: Parking (73 stalls total), Restroom, Easily Accessible, Information Available

 

2. Kīlauea Overlook

Where to park: Kīlauea Overlook.
Walking distance: Lava is visible east of Kīlauea Overlook viewing area towards Kilauea Military Camp. 30 minute (1 mile) walk from Kilauea Military Camp.
Eruption distance from overlook: 1.5 miles.
View: Fountains of molten lava burst into the air from a lava lake. A red glow is visible at night.
Amenities: Parking (36 stalls total), Restroom, Easily Accessible, Information Available

 

3. Overlook near Keanakākoʻi Crater

Where to park: Devastation Trail parking area (limited parking)
Walking distance: 30 minutes (1 mile), one-way over mostly paved terrain if parked at Devastation. 45 minute (1.7 miles), one-way over mostly paved terrain if parked at Puʻupuaʻi. The last 300 yards of this trail is over loose rocky cinders and an uneven surface.
Eruption distance from overlook: 1.5 mile.
View: Fountains of molten lava burst into the air from a lava lake. A red glow is visible at night.
Amenities: Limited Parking (58 stalls total), Restroom at Trailhead, Information Available.

 

4. Wahinekapu at Kūkamāhuākea (Steam Vents)

Where to park: Kūkamāhuākea (Steam Vents) parking area
Walking distance: Lava is visible at Wahinekapu a short 500 feet away from Kūkamāhuākea (Steam Vents) parking area.
Eruption distance from overlook: The eruption can be seen from 2.3 miles away at the overlook.
View: Fountains of molten lava burst into the air from a lava lake. A red glow is visible at night.
Amenities: Parking (34 stalls total), Easily Accessible, Information Available

 

5. Kūpinaʻi Pali (Waldron Ledge) from Crater Rim Trail

Where to Park: Kīlauea Visitor Center
Walking distance: 15 minute (0.5 miles), one-way from Volcano House. Walk across Crater Rim Drive and walk south on Crater Rim Trail to overlook at Kūpinaʻi Pali.
Eruption distance from overlook: The eruption is viewable from 2.6 miles away.
View: Fountains of molten lava burst into the air from a lava lake. A red glow is visible at night.
Amenities: Parking (38 stalls total), Wheel Chair Manageable and Easily Accessible, Picnic.

 

Eruption Viewing Tips

• Arrive early to enjoy stunning views and avoid crowds, especially before 5 p.m. Avoid popular parking areas like Devastation and Kīlauea Overlook between 5-9 p.m.

• Bring essentials: headlamp for nighttime visits, sturdy shoes, warm clothes, and a rain jacket.

• Stay out of closed areas: Rope lines and hazard signs protect you from dangerous volcanic fumes, sudden collapses, and hidden cracks.Air quality is important—check before and during your visit.

• Have respect: The Kīlauea eruption is a reminder of sacredness in Hawaiʻi. Watch quietly and learn about the cultural significance of the land to Native Hawaiians.