Welcome to a side-by-side comparison of two of America’s most unique national parks: Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. These two parks offer visitors a chance to experience ecosystems unlike any other on the planet. From swampy subtropical wilderness to volcanic landscapes, these parks are truly one of a kind.
Everglades National Park is often referred to as the “River of Grass.” This park is a slow-moving river that covers a massive 1.5 million acres of South Florida. It is home to some of the most diverse wildlife in North America, including American crocodiles, manatees, and the elusive Florida panther.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, on the other hand, is a world of fiery landscapes and explosive geology. This park is located on the Big Island of Hawaii and is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can witness the power of nature as they watch molten lava pour into the Pacific Ocean.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these two national parks and explore what makes them so unique. We’ll compare their landscapes, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re an avid outdoorsman or simply looking for a new adventure, you won’t want to miss this comparison of Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.
Hiking Trails in Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Everglades National Park and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park both offer a diverse range of hiking trails for visitors, each with its own unique landscapes and ecosystems.
The Everglades boasts easy hikes such as the Anhinga Trail, a 0.8-mile boardwalk that takes visitors through the heart of the mangroves and marshes. For a more strenuous hike, there’s the Gumbo Limbo Trail, a 1.5-mile hike through pine rocklands and coastal hammocks.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers many easy hikes, including the Kilauea Iki Trail, a 4-mile hike through a volcanic crater, and the Crater Rim Trail, a 11-mile hike along the rim of Kilauea caldera. For a more challenging hike, visitors can take the Mauna Loa Trail, a 13-mile hike to the summit of the world’s largest shield volcano.
In conclusion, both Everglades National Park and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offer a diverse range of hiking trails for visitors of all skill levels and interests. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a challenging hike, both parks have something to offer.
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Everglades National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Valley Trail | 25427.572 | 6.7056 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Anhinga Trail | 2414.01 | 0 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook Trail | 321.868 | 0 | Easy | loop | 4 |
| Gumbo Limbo Trail | 643.736 | 0 | Easy | loop | 3.5 |
| Long Pine Key Trail | 24944.77 | 0 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Mahogany Hammock Trail | 643.736 | 0 | Easy | loop | 3.5 |
| Everglades Coastal Prairie Trail | 27358.78 | 4.8768 | Easy | out and back | 4 |
| Pinelands Trail | 643.736 | 0 | Easy | loop | 3.5 |
| Everglades National Park East Entrance to Flamingo Scenic Route | 58258.108 | 7.9248 | Easy | point to point | 4.5 |
| Nine Mile Pond | 8851.37 | 0 | Easy | loop | 4 |
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kilauea Iki Trail and Crater Rim Trail | 4828.02 | 209.7024 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
| Kalapana Lava Viewing | 15288.73 | 196.9008 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
| Pu’u Huluhulu via Napau Crater Trail | 4023.35 | 94.7928 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Halema���uma���u Steam Bluff and Sulfur Banks | 2092.142 | 24.9936 | Easy | loop | 4 |
| Puu Loa Petroglyphs Trail | 1931.208 | 25.908 | Moderate | out and back | 4 |
| Mauna Loa via Observatory Trail and Summit Trail | 20760.486 | 905.8656 | Very Hard | out and back | 4.5 |
| Devastation Trail to Puu Puai Overlook | 1609.34 | 37.7952 | Easy | out and back | 3.5 |
| End of Chain of Craters Road Trail to Lava Viewing | 16576.202 | 130.7592 | Moderate | out and back | 4 |
| Sandalwood (Iliahi) Trail | 1931.208 | 13.716 | Moderate | loop | 4 |
| Halema’uma’u Trail | 2735.878 | 130.7592 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
Wildlife in Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Everglades National Park in Florida and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in Hawaii offer unique and diverse wildlife experiences. In the Everglades, visitors can expect to see a range of species including alligators, American white pelicans, manatees, and various species of wading birds. The park also features a large number of reptiles, including the American crocodile. On the other hand, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to a large number of endemic species, including the Hawaiian goose, Hawaiian hawk, and various species of endemic birds. Visitors can also spot various species of endemic plants such as the `ōhi`a lehua and hibiscus.
In terms of animals, the Everglades is known for its large population of alligators, which can often be seen sunning themselves on the banks of rivers and canals. In contrast, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is famous for its volcanic activity and visitors can see steam vents, volcanic craters, and sulfur banks. Overall, both parks offer unique and diverse wildlife experiences that are sure to impress. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, a nature lover, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the great outdoors, you’re sure to find something of interest at either of these two national parks.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
| Everglades National Park | Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park |
|---|---|
| Peregrine Falcon | Peregrine Falcon |
| Northern Harrier | Canada Goose |
| Sharp-Shinned Hawk | Great Blue Heron |
| Osprey | Rock Pigeon |
| Tree Swallow | House Sparrow |
| Mallard | Northern Mockingbird |
| Canada Goose | Black-Crowned Night-Heron |
| Lincoln’s Sparrow | Wild Turkey |
| Ruby-Crowned Kinglet | Barn Owl |
| American Robin | Cattle Egret |
| Great Horned Owl | Sanderling |
| Red-Tailed Hawk | Ring-Necked Pheasant |
| Northern Flicker | Chukar |
| Merlin | Ruddy Turnstone |
| Barn Swallow | Northern Cardinal |
| Savannah Sparrow | California Quail |
| Great Blue Heron | |
| Hermit Thrush | |
| American Kestrel | |
| Bald Eagle | |
| Song Sparrow | |
| European Starling | |
| Northern Pintail | |
| American Wigeon | |
| Green-Winged Teal |
Mammals
| Everglades National Park | Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park |
|---|---|
| Coyote | House Mouse |
| Bobcat | Norway Rat |
| Striped Skunk | ‘Iole |
| Raccoon | Domestic Cattle |
| Red Fox | Feral Hog |
| House Mouse | |
| Mink | |
| Gray Fox | |
| Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat | |
| White-Tailed Deer | |
| Eastern Cottontail | |
| House Rat | |
| Spotted Skunk | |
| Fox Squirrel | |
| Eastern Gray Squirrel | |
| Feral Hog | |
| Northern Short-Tailed Shrew | |
| Least Shrew |
Fish
| Everglades National Park | Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park |
|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | |
| Bluegill | |
| Golden Shiner | |
| Yellow Bullhead | |
| Channel Catfish | |
| Black Crappie | |
| Mosquitofish | |
| Brown Bullhead | |
| Goldfish |
Amphibians
| Everglades National Park | Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park |
|---|---|
| Bullfrog |
Insects
| Everglades National Park | Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park |
|---|---|
| Painted Lady | |
| Monarch Butterfly | |
| American Painted Lady | |
| Red Admiral | |
| Cabbage White | |
| Honey Bee |
Beautiful Landscapes in Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Everglades National Park, located in southern Florida, is known for its unique and diverse ecosystems, including mangrove forests, sawgrass marshes, and pine rocklands. The park is home to several species of wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and a large variety of birds. The Anhinga Trail is a famous boardwalk that winds through a sawgrass marsh, providing visitors with opportunities to observe these animals in their natural habitat.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, located on the Big Island of Hawai’i, is famous for its active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Visitors can witness the power of volcanic activity at the Jaggar Museum, which overlooks the Halema‘uma‘u Crater, or take a hike through the Thurston Lava Tube, where they can walk through a cave formed by ancient lava flow. The park also boasts lush rainforests, subalpine deserts, and scenic drives, like the Crater Rim Drive, offering panoramic views of the island’s volcanic landscapes.
Whether you’re looking to explore unique ecosystems, witness the power of nature, or simply take in breathtaking views, both Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park offer something for everyone.
Things To-Do and Activities in Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Everglades National Park andHawai’i Volcanoes National Park are two popular national parks in the United States. While the Everglades is known for its unique ecosystem of swamp lands and wetlands, Hawai’i Volcanoes is known for its volcanic landscapes and active volcanoes.
At Everglades National Park, visitors can explore the park through various activities like airboat rides, kayaking, birdwatching, and hiking. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, panthers, and manatees, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Visitors can also take guided tours to learn about the park’s history and ecology.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, on the other hand, offers visitors a chance to witness the power of nature with its active volcanoes. The park is home to Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and visitors can hike to its summit for a breathtaking view. The park also offers ranger-led programs, lava tube walks, and a drive through the scenic Crater Rim Drive. Visitors can also explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, which range from rainforests to volcanic deserts.
Overall, both Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park offer unique experiences for visitors. Whether you’re interested in exploring a unique ecosystem, witnessing the power of nature, or just getting out into nature, these parks have something to offer.
Best Time to Visit Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the United States. While they are located in different parts of the country and offer different experiences, both parks are renowned for their natural beauty and unique environments. One key factor that affects the best time to visit these parks is the weather.
Everglades National Park is located in Florida and has a subtropical climate. The park experiences hot, humid summers and warm, mild winters. The best time to visit the Everglades is in the winter months, when temperatures are cooler and there is less rain. The park is also less crowded during this time, making it easier to enjoy the many hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, has a tropical climate and experiences warm temperatures year-round. The park is known for its active volcanoes and is best visited during the drier months from April to October. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm, making it easier to explore the park and enjoy its many scenic views.
In conclusion, both Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park have unique weather patterns that affect the best time to visit. Visitors should consider the weather when planning their trips to these parks to ensure they have the best possible experience.
Family Friendliness of Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Everglades National Park and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park are two of the most iconic national parks in the United States. Both are well-known for their unique landscapes and abundant wildlife, but which one is better for families traveling with children?
Everglades National Park is a vast wetland that is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and a variety of bird species. It offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, canoeing, and kayaking. The park also has several visitor centers and ranger-led programs that are great for kids. However, the vastness of the Everglades and the lack of developed facilities can make it a bit challenging for families with young children.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, on the other hand, is a truly unique park that offers a chance to see active volcanoes and learn about the geological processes that shape the Earth. The park has several easy hikes, including the Kilauea Iki trail, that offer stunning views of the volcanic landscape. It also has several ranger-led programs and a well-developed visitors center that provide a wealth of information about the park’s unique features. Additionally, the park is surrounded by many small towns that offer a variety of family-friendly accommodations and activities.
In terms of being family-friendly, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is the better choice for families traveling with children. The park’s well-developed infrastructure and ranger-led programs make it easy for families to learn about the park and enjoy its unique features. Additionally, the surrounding towns offer a variety of family-friendly accommodations and activities that make it a great destination for families.