HAWAII VOLCANOES

Category: West Region

State: Hawaii

Date Created: August 1, 1916

Last Visited by Susan: October 2022

Location: The island of Hawai'i, in the state of Hawaii, USA

Size: Approximately 323,431 acres (130,791 hectares)

Chasing angels or fleeing demons, go to the mountains.”

— Jeffrey Rasley

Susan's Reflections:

Kilauea is considered one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Pelehonuamea (Pele) according to Hawaiian lore is the goddess of fire. When she is perturbed the Big Island is “devoured.” Standing atop this majestic volcano, fissures and vents hiss and belch while spewing warm steam from the earth’s surface. A slight smell of sulfur can be detected. A visit to this special place is daring but feels spiritual. Standing in a quiet moment overlooking the landscape it is a surreal experience.