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Old May 11th, 2006 | 06:01 AM
  #1  
kimb1023
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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?
 
Old May 11th, 2006 | 02:34 PM
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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.
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Old May 11th, 2006 | 02:34 PM
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There are short easy trails and there is a lot she can see from the comfort of the car.
DawnCt is offline  
Old May 11th, 2006 | 02:55 PM
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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.
Visitor center has a 1/2 showing violent past eruptions and nearby Jaggar musuem contains volcanology info.
Link: www.nps.gov/havo/visitor/drive.htm
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Old May 11th, 2006 | 04:18 PM
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The 'Devastation trail' is short and smooth
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Old May 11th, 2006 | 04:27 PM
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some other possibilities are heliocopter tours also heard of some boat crusies that go around the lava flow.
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Old May 12th, 2006 | 04:35 AM
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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.
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Old May 12th, 2006 | 05:06 AM
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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.
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Old May 12th, 2006 | 12:44 PM
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You can get breathtaking views and scenery just driving around in the car.
Gellers is offline  
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