Thurston Lava Tube

Volcano, Hawaii, United States

The Thurston Lava Tube is a lava tube that's inside the Volcano National Park. There is a nice parking lot outside the lava tube, and the entrance to the lava tube is just a short hike from the parking lot. This was one of the more exciting things we saw in the Volcano National Park - be sure to bring your flashlight!

Like the Hana Lava Tube, the main section of the lava tube is nice and safe. It is illuminated, and offers railings. However, the Thurston Lava Tube also has an unlit and unfinished area. If you have a flashlight, you can go into this area and explore at your own pace. It's unadvised that visitors go into the unfinished area without a flashlight - it is very, very dark.

Cost

The entrance to the Thurston Lava Tube

Entrance to the Thurston Lava Tube is free with paid admission to the Volcano National Park.

Estimated Visiting Time

Inside the Thurston Lava Tube

The main part of the lava tube forms part of a circular trail that will bring you back to the parking lot. This circular loop will take approximately 20-30 minutes. If you choose to go into the unfinished part, allow an additional 20-30 minutes. You will likely walk slower, since it is dark and difficult to see (even with a flashlight).