Hawaii, the island paradise famed for its long white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. But did you know that beyond the popular tourist spots, Hawaii also harbors lesser-known national parks where you can immerse yourself in untouched nature and discover the wonders this island offers? Join “Du Lịch Khắp Thế Giới” (Travel the World) to explore these hidden gems!
Haleakalā National Park: Sunrise Views from a Volcano
Haleakalā, meaning “House of the Sun,” is a national park located on the island of Maui. The highlight of this park is the dormant Haleakalā volcano. The summit is an ideal spot to watch the sunrise or sunset, with majestic views and a sky ablaze with color.
Explore Haleakalā Crater
The Haleakalā crater is as vast as a valley, with bizarre formations sculpted from lava and volcanic ash. You can hike down into the crater to explore unique trails and admire the pristine landscape.
Vast Haleakala crater resembling a valley
Activities at Haleakalā National Park
- Hiking: The national park boasts numerous hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, suitable for all skill levels.
- Camping: You can camp overnight in the park to fully enjoy the natural beauty.
- Stargazing: With clear skies and no light pollution, Haleakalā is an ideal location for stargazing.
- Biking: Some trails within the park allow biking, offering a unique exploration experience.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park: Witnessing Nature’s Power
Located on the Big Island, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is one of Hawaii’s most compelling destinations. It’s not only home to two active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, but also a place where you can witness the destructive and regenerative power of nature.
Kīlauea: The Ever-Erupting Volcano
Kīlauea is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The lava flows from Kīlauea have created spectacular landscapes and continuously reshape the island’s terrain. You can walk on trails to observe lava flows or take helicopter tours for a panoramic view of the volcano.
Mauna Loa: The Giant Volcano
Mauna Loa is the largest volcano on Earth in terms of volume. Although Mauna Loa is not as actively erupting as Kīlauea currently, it remains a significant part of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. You can hike to the summit of Mauna Loa to admire the breathtaking views of the island and the Pacific Ocean.
Activities at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
- Visit the Jaggar Museum: This museum displays exhibits and information about volcanoes, helping you understand their formation and activity.
- Hiking: The national park offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy walks to more challenging adventures.
- Drive the Chain of Craters Road: This 19-mile (30 km) road passes by numerous craters and unique landscapes.
- Explore Thurston Lava Tube: This cave formed from a cooled lava flow provides an exciting exploration experience.
Kalaupapa National Historical Park: History’s Scars & Natural Beauty
Kalaupapa National Historical Park, located on Moloka’i island, has a unique and poignant history. In the 19th century, Kalaupapa was a settlement for people with Hansen’s disease (leprosy). Today, it is a national park and an important historical site.
History of Kalaupapa
From 1866 to 1969, over 8,000 people with Hansen’s disease were exiled to Kalaupapa. Separated from their families and society, they lived in harsh and deprived conditions. Today, some former residents still live in Kalaupapa, preserving the history and culture of this place.
Natural Beauty of Kalaupapa
Beyond its sorrowful history, Kalaupapa boasts untouched and majestic natural beauty. The national park is situated on a remote peninsula, with towering cliffs, black sand beaches, and lush green valleys. You can hike, visit historical sites, and learn about the lives of those once isolated here.
Visiting Kalaupapa National Historical Park
Visiting Kalaupapa National Historical Park requires a special permit. You can book tours through local companies or apply for a permit from the Hawaii Department of Health.
Conclusion
Hawaii offers more than just beaches and luxury resorts. These lesser-known national parks are true treasures, where you can discover untouched beauty, and learn about the island’s unique history and culture. Plan your trip and explore the wonders Hawaii has to offer!