What Exactly Are Lava Trees Hawaii?

With the amount of volcanic activity throughout Hawaii’s illustrious history, it is inevitable that the islands will contain natural marvels. These nearly petrified lava trees are one of the natural wonders of the Big Island. Here is a guide to their true nature.

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Lava flow

There is a specific formula for creating a lava tree, and Hawaii has executed it flawlessly. The environment and temperatures are crucial.

During a volcanic eruption, such as that of Kilauea, which has forced the evacuation of 1,700 local residents, the lava flow will move downward, towards the water. When the sliding heat makes contact with a tree, a very interesting phenomenon occurs.

What Exactly Are Lava Trees Hawaii? — Near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, there is red hot lava | © {sara-ann} / Flickr

You could be excused for assuming that the lava would completely consume the tree’s trunk and branches to clear the path. Instead, the moisture within the tree cools the lava, creating a barrier against the hotter lava around it.

The tree is protected from obsolescence if, and only if, the hotter lava can continue to move downward and flow around it. As this cools, a shell forms. And even with the interior wood burned to a hollow state, these trees can stand for years, with some even able to continue growing.

Lava Tree State Monument

On the Big Island, just south of Phea, is the finest example of this marvel and a must-see attraction.

In the vicinity of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where lava flowed many years ago, a dense forest has grown. Within the 17.1 acres of vegetation and wildlife, visitors can examine the bark textures and hollow trunks of the still-standing lava trees.

In 1790, Kilauea erupted and approximately 11 feet of lava descended. This can be determined by the height of the still-standing lava trees.

In addition to being an excellent resource for learning about natural occurrences and the region’s history, the opportunity to take a long walk among them is mesmerizing.

Topic: What Exactly Are Lava Trees Hawaii?

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