From the Volcano National Park visitor center, to the end of Chain of Craters road is a 45 minute drive. The drive is extraordinarily amazing as you drive through the huge old lava fields. There are a few pull-off's which allow you to gaze over the lava fields, down the mountain, and into the ocean.

After parking the car, it is currently about a 6 hour round trip hike to where the lava is. The end of the road where you park was just recently covered with lava and made impassible on Feb. 22nd, 2003. You definitely want to get here early so you can see where you are going. The hike is not an easy hike, and you may want to join a hiking group with professional guides. Arnotts Lodge has been offering volcano tours for years and would be a good option.

 Things to bring 

• Rubber soled shoes
• Long pants
• Plenty of water 
• Flash Lights in case you are there past dark