Not really off the beaten...
Not really off the beaten path, but there were two very large steam vents here,
with a huge amount of scorching steam coming out.
One guy put his arm into it, and I can tell you, he jumped away pretty fast.
19-4034 Old Volcano Rd, Volcano, Hawaii, 96785, United States
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My beef noodle soup
Kilauea Crater
Entrance to Thurston Lava Tube
I bet Ohi'a didn't wear pants like that
Not really off the beaten path, but there were two very large steam vents here,
with a huge amount of scorching steam coming out.
One guy put his arm into it, and I can tell you, he jumped away pretty fast.
For a quick trip underground to escape the heat, a stroll through the Thurston Lava Tube is a must. Try to get there between tour buses and school trips, otherwise it's a madhouse.
The entrance is quite pretty, a little ecosystem for moisture-loving, rock-clinging maidenhead ferns and assorted plants.
The park cleaned up the lava tube and put in some lights, so it's more user friendly. That means the stalactites have been removed, along with any sort of tripping hazard. It's still pretty cool to walk through, and my dear hubby made us go through it several times. I liked how mini-ecosystems were created around the light fixtures, as little ferns established themselves and struggle daily, getting what little light they can.
If you're smart, bring a flashlight and you can then take the gated route at the end of the 'tourist tube". The lava tube continues on for another 1000 feet down and is completely unlit. Experience what real darkness is!
Before or after you go through the lava tube, stop and admire the lovely, more or less pristine rainforest around you. If it's a quiet, not-very-touristy moment, sit down and listen to all the lovely birds in the tree tops. You may get lucky and see a Hawaiian Honeycreeper or Thrush.
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