The Lava Trees Forest

The Lava Trees State Monument is a public park located 2.7 miles southeast of Pāhoa in the Puna District on the island of Hawaii. It preserves lava molds of the tree trunks that were formed when a lava flow swept through a forested area in 1790.

Forest of lava trees resulting from eruption of a 1-km-line of vents east of Pu‘u Kahaualea. The bulbous top of each lava tree marks the high stand of the lava flow as it spread through the trees. As the fissure eruption waned, the flow continued to spread laterally; its surface subsided, leaving pillars of lava that had chilled against tree trunks. 

The Lava Trees Forest Formation

 When lava flows over a forest, it surrounds the trees, quickly solidifying into a mold. The moisture within the wood and gas bubbles trapped in the lava act as insulators, preventing the trees from instantly incinerating. As the lava flow cools and contracts, the outer crust remains intact, while the molten lava beneath it drains away, leaving behind hollow lava columns. These lava trees, typically reaching heights of 10 to 30 feet, stand as silent sentinels, marking the path of ancient lava flows.

The Lava Trees Forest is a popular tourist destination, and it is easy to see why. The trees are incredibly photogenic, and the forest itself is a peaceful and serene place. It is a great place to go for a hike or a picnic, and it is also a popular spot for weddings and other special events.