Thurston Lava Tube Dark Area, how long is the dark area? (Hilo: parking, park)

[abefroman99]

Thurston Lava Tube Dark Area, how long is the dark area?

Does anyone know where I can get a map or the lava cave, or is one not needed?

[hothulamaui]

I am pretty sure this is the same one I was in 5 years or so ago and it is not very long at all, the dark part is not very dark. it only took a few minutes to walk through

[Hawaii Bound]

The second part of the tube (the dark area) you will need a flashflight but no map at all. Its not very long. I'm only guessing but I'd say the entire tube is 1/2 mile long.

I pretty long one for good exploration is the one heading up to Saddle Rd. That one there is a lot of exploring to do in both directions. Occasionaly, you can "pop up" in the middle of field somewhere. That one is really fun to go through and there is graffiti as far back as the early 1800's.

[mdand3boys]

The dark section is about 300-400 feet long. The problem is that when you get to the end, you have to turn around and come back since the dark section doesn't have an exit on the far end.

The large lava tubes accessible along Saddle Road are also known to have been previously used as Hawaiian burial sites and you may come across human remains - bones.

[Dreaming of Hawaii]

Here's the lava tube that mdand3boys referred to:

Kaumana Cave. Just a little north west from Hilo you will find Kaumana Caves Park. From Hilo take Waianuenue Ave. mauka for about a mile. Kaumana Dr. will branch off to the left. The park is located on the right between the 3 and 4 mile markers. The parking lot is across the street and on a blind curve so be careful when crossing the street. The entrance to the cave is marked with a railing. A very steep set of stairs descends into the cool darkness of this relatively young lava tube.

[abefroman99]

Originally Posted by mdand3boys

The dark section is about 300-400 feet long. The problem is that when you get to the end, you have to turn around and come back since the dark section doesn't have an exit on the far end.

The large lava tubes accessible along Saddle Road are also known to have been previously used as Hawaiian burial sites and you may come across human remains - bones.

Sounds cool! Although I'm not sure the misses would like that.

[WindRide]

The Thurston lava tube is actually lit the whole way in the main section. There is also a second section that is not lit that you will need a good flashlight for. Both tubes are wet so wear good shoes and even a jacket. There is a very good chance you will get water dripped on you. There are also puddles on the floor. Both tunnels are fairly straight and there are no turn offs so you won't need a map. No way to get lost. The second section is very dark and may be too scary for small children or claustrophobics.

I've never been to the other tube mentioned, but I sure will when we get back in August.

[roadfamily6now]

Originally Posted by Dreaming of Hawaii

Here's the lava tube that mdand3boys referred to:

Kaumana Cave. Just a little north west from Hilo you will find Kaumana Caves Park. From Hilo take Waianuenue Ave. mauka for about a mile. Kaumana Dr. will branch off to the left. The park is located on the right between the 3 and 4 mile markers. The parking lot is across the street and on a blind curve so be careful when crossing the street. The entrance to the cave is marked with a railing. A very steep set of stairs descends into the cool darkness of this relatively young lava tube.

I am SO going in there on my next visit! How awesome!

[AlohaHuey]

Originally Posted by roadfamily6now

I am SO going in there on my next visit! How awesome!

Be sure to stop at Rainbow Falls while you are there. It's close.