(NPS Photos/Michael Szoenyi) Thurston Lava Tube

HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK – Starting on August 3, a popular Hawaii Volcanoes National Park lava tube will become a dead end.

Park officials say the exit route trail leading out of the famous Thurston Lava Tube will be closed​ ​while​ ​workers replace an electrical line. The lava tube will remain open, and the trail that leads into it will be used as both exit and entry. The route is scheduled to re-open Aug. 14.

“The closed area extends from the far end of the lava tube towards the restrooms. The restrooms will remain open. Escape Road, from Highway 11 to Thurston Lava Tube, will also be closed during the replacement of the electrical line.

Thurston Lava Tube, or Nāhuku, is one of the most popular features in the national park. Visitation is heaviest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. To reduce congestion in the parking lot and lava tube, visitors are encouraged to enjoy it in the early morning or late afternoon.

The park regrets any impact to visitors and residents. Dates and times are subject to change, and the public will be notified if changes are necessary.” – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

(NPS Photos/Michael Szoenyi) The entrance trail, pictured, will serve as both exit and entry into Thurston Lava Tube during the temporary exit route closure.