HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK, Hawaii – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park reopened to visitors on Thursday, after a 16 day closure due to the partial shutdown of the federal government that began on October 1st.

Park spokesperson Jessica Ferracane (who worked part time during the closure, updating the public as needed) issued a media release informing that visitors can once again access public areas and roads immediately, while facilities and other public services are brought back online.

“We are all eager and excited to reopen and welcome visitors back to the park,” stated Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando in the same release.

First visitors

The National Park reports that the Macfarlane family of Scotland were the first visitors to enter the park when it reopened at 6 a.m. this morning.

courtesy NPS Photos/J.Ferracane

In the above photo, they are seen enjoying the views of Halema‘uma‘u Crater from Steaming Bluffs. They were said to be ecstatic to learn the national parks would reopen today, as their return flight leaves later tonight.

Now open

Roads: Chain of Craters Road and all scenic overlooks are now open. Crater Rim Drive is open, except for the section closed since 2008 due to volcanic fumes.

Features: Thurston Lava Tube, Steam Vents, and the Jaggar Museum observation deck overlooking erupting Halema‘uma‘u Crater are now open.

Visitor Centers and Programs: Kīlauea Visitor Center opened at 8:45 a.m. today, the Jaggar Museum opened at 8:30 a.m., and ranger-led programs will resume as quickly as possible.

Trails: All trails are open for day use.

Campgrounds: All park campgrounds, including Nāmakanipaio, Kulanaokuaiki, and backcountry campgrounds, are open.

Concessionaire services: Volcano House, the Nāmakanipaio A-frame cabins, and Kīlauea Military Camp are welcoming guests immediately, and limited food service will begin Fri., Oct. 18.

For more information about Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, visit nps.gov/havo, or call 808-985-6000.

Free park pass for active military

Along with the park, Kilauea Military Camp has also re-opened, and according to an email they distributed, Active Duty Military may receive a Free Annual Park Pass from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for a limited time only.

“We want to give a warm “Mahalo” to our troops and authorized guests for your continued support,” explained KMC.