Volcano National Park
 

Are there hikes at the Volcano National Park that my 79 year old mother can do or are they too difficult walk. I have been to the park website and noted there are EASY trails but I wanted to hear from someone if those hikes are worth taking or should we find something else for my mom to do while our family goes hiking? If that is the case, any suggestions she can do while we are in the park?

I would say "no". The trails are "easy" but they are also on dried / cooled lava with continually variable surfaces. I found it difficult to walk on.

I can't think of much for her to do while you hike, other than to hang out at the visitor center or hotel.

There are short easy trails and there is a lot she can see from the comfort of the car.

There are some easy hikes along Crater rim drive such as Kilauea caldera overlook with a most impressive crater view and steam and sulfur vents along the way, and if she is OK with steps perhaps Thurston lava tube is also worth considering. :S-
Visitor center has a 1/2((o))((~)) showing <font color="red">violent<font color="black"> past eruptions and nearby Jaggar musuem contains volcanology info.
Link: www.nps.gov/havo/visitor/drive.htm</font></font>

The 'Devastation trail' is short and smooth

some other possibilities are heliocopter tours also heard of some boat crusies that go around the lava flow.

I agree with Devastation Trail. It is on a paved path, and is even suitable for wheelchairs. Thurston Lava Tube is also an easy hike, but it does involve stairs.

hulajake -
Are you aware of any boats that cruise out around the entry point for lava at VNP? I'm not - but I think it would be a great thing! Right now, I think it's a cruise ship or nothing.

You can get breathtaking views and scenery just driving around in the car.