Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park are two of the most unique and breathtaking national parks in the United States. Located on opposite coasts and offering vastly different landscapes and experiences, these parks are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re in the mood for a tropical getaway or a crisp mountain hike, these parks have something for everyone.
Shenandoah National Park, located in Virginia, is a stunning mountain range that boasts breathtaking vistas, rolling hills, and crystal-clear streams. It’s the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy camping, hiking, and wildlife watching. With over 500 miles of trails, you can explore the park on foot or horseback, and take in the stunning scenery at your leisure.
On the other hand, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a truly unique experience that can be found nowhere else in the world. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, this park is home to active volcanoes that have been continuously erupting for hundreds of years. With its lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, this park is a must-visit for anyone looking for a tropical adventure. Whether you’re looking to hike through the park, watch the volcano erupt, or simply relax on the beach, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park has something for everyone.
Hiking Trails in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park are two very different parks with unique hiking experiences. Hiking in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is an opportunity to see active volcanic activity and hike through stunning landscapes of black lava fields and lush rainforests. Some of the easiest hikes in the park include the Kīlauea Iki Trail, which is a 4-mile loop through a volcanic crater, and the Thurston Lava Tube, which is a short, easy hike to an underground lava tube. On the other hand, the hardest hike in the park is the Mauna Loa Summit, which is a strenuous backpacking trip that covers more than 15 miles and reaches over 13,000 feet in elevation.
Shenandoah National Park is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and offers hiking trails that range from easy walks along streams to strenuous mountain hikes. One of the easiest hikes in the park is the Dark Hollow Falls Trail, which is a 1.4-mile round trip hike to a 70-foot waterfall. On the other hand, the toughest hike in the park is the Old Rag Mountain hike, which is a 9.5-mile loop that involves steep rock scrambles and reaches an elevation of over 3,000 feet. Overall, both parks offer a range of hiking experiences, from easy walks to challenging backcountry adventures, and are great destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.
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 |
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Shenandoah National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Rag Mountain Loop | 13840.324 | 736.7016 | Hard | loop | 5 |
| White Oak Canyon and Cedar Run Trails Loop | 14484.06 | 722.9856 | Hard | loop | 4.5 |
| Dark Hollow Falls Trail | 2253.076 | 171.9072 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Bearfence Mountain Trail | 1609.34 | 73.7616 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
| Hawksbill Gap Loop via Appalachian Trail | 4184.284 | 228.9048 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
| Rose River Trail | 5632.69 | 256.9464 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
| White Oak Canyon Trail | 15288.73 | 733.9584 | Hard | out and back | 4.5 |
| Stony Man via Appalachian Trail | 2414.01 | 97.8408 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| South River Falls Trail | 7402.964 | 387.7056 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Little Stony Man Loop via Appalachian Trail | 5471.756 | 263.9568 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
Wildlife in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the United States, each offering unique wildlife experiences. In Hawai’i Volcanoes, visitors can see a variety of unique and endemic species, such as the nēnē (Hawaiian Goose), Hawaiian hawk, and the Hawaiian hoary bat. The park is also home to many species of endemic plants, including the silversword and the ohia lehua tree.
Shenandoah National Park, located in Virginia, is known for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. Visitors can see black bears, deer, foxes, and over 200 species of birds, including the bald eagle and the peregrine falcon. The park is also home to a variety of plants, including the tulip poplar and the mountain laurel.
Both parks offer the opportunity to see a diverse array of wildlife, from birds and mammals to plants and trees. However, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park takes the lead in terms of unique and endemic species. Whether you’re interested in observing wildlife or simply admiring the beauty of nature, both parks are well worth a visit.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
| Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Shenandoah National Park |
|---|---|
| Peregrine Falcon | Peregrine Falcon |
| Canada Goose | Northern Harrier |
| Great Blue Heron | Sharp-Shinned Hawk |
| Rock Pigeon | Osprey |
| House Sparrow | Tree Swallow |
| Northern Mockingbird | Mallard |
| Black-Crowned Night-Heron | Canada Goose |
| Wild Turkey | Lincoln’s Sparrow |
| Barn Owl | Ruby-Crowned Kinglet |
| Cattle Egret | American Robin |
| Sanderling | Great Horned Owl |
| Ring-Necked Pheasant | Red-Tailed Hawk |
| Chukar | Northern Flicker |
| Ruddy Turnstone | Merlin |
| Northern Cardinal | Barn Swallow |
| California Quail | Savannah Sparrow |
| Great Blue Heron | |
| Hermit Thrush | |
| American Kestrel | |
| Bald Eagle | |
| Song Sparrow | |
| European Starling | |
| Northern Pintail | |
| American Wigeon | |
| Green-Winged Teal |
Mammals
| Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Shenandoah National Park |
|---|---|
| House Mouse | Coyote |
| Norway Rat | American Beaver |
| ‘Iole | Muskrat |
| Domestic Cattle | Big Brown Bat |
| Feral Hog | Bobcat |
| Striped Skunk | |
| Little Brown Bat | |
| Deer Mouse | |
| Raccoon | |
| Black Bear | |
| Silver-Haired Bat | |
| Hoary Bat | |
| Red Fox | |
| Long-Tailed Weasel | |
| House Mouse | |
| Mountain Lion | |
| Gray Fox | |
| River Otter | |
| Masked Shrew | |
| Water Shrew | |
| Red Squirrel | |
| White-Tailed Deer | |
| Virginia Opossum | |
| Marten | |
| Northern Flying Squirrel |
Amphibians
| Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Shenandoah National Park |
|---|---|
| Bullfrog | Northern Leopard Frog |
Insects
| Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Shenandoah National Park |
|---|---|
| Painted Lady | Orange Sulphur |
| Monarch Butterfly | Painted Lady |
| American Painted Lady | Monarch |
| Red Admiral | American Lady |
| Cabbage White | Red Admiral |
| Honey Bee | Mourning Cloak |
| Cabbage White | |
| Silvery Blue | |
| Common Checkered Skipper | |
| Clouded Sulphur | |
| Variegated Fritillary | |
| Buckeye | |
| Commom Wood Nymph | |
| Gray Hairstreak |
Fish
| Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Shenandoah National Park |
|---|---|
| Rainbow Trout | |
| Brook Trout | |
| Brown Trout | |
| Largemouth Bass | |
| Green Sunfish | |
| Bluegill | |
| Common Carp | |
| Mottled Sculpin | |
| Longnose Dace | |
| Yellow Bullhead | |
| Creek Chub | |
| Brown Bullhead | |
| Smallmouth Bass |
Reptiles
| Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Shenandoah National Park |
|---|---|
| Black Racer | |
| Ringneck Snake | |
| Common Garter Snake | |
| Common Kingsnake | |
| Milksnake | |
| Eastern Fence Lizard |
Beautiful Landscapes in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is famous for its active volcano, Kilauea, which has been continuously erupting since 1983. Visitors can see steam vents, lava tubes, and a vast crater at the summit of the volcano. The park also includes the Mauna Loa volcano, which is the largest shield volcano on Earth.
Shenandoah National Park, on the other hand, is known for its scenic drive, Skyline Drive, which stretches for 105 miles through the park. Along the drive, visitors can take in panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley. The park is also home to the famous Dark Hollow Falls, a 70-foot waterfall that can be reached by a 1.4-mile hike. Additionally, visitors can hike to the summit of Hawksbill Mountain, the highest peak in the park, for a stunning view of the surrounding area.
Both parks offer unique and beautiful landscapes, but they have different natural wonders to explore. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit for those interested in volcanoes and geology, while Shenandoah National Park is perfect for those seeking scenic drives and stunning mountain views.
Things To-Do and Activities in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the US, each offering unique experiences to visitors.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is renowned for its volcanic activity and stunning landscapes. Visitors can witness the ongoing eruption of Kilauea and take guided walks to see the stunning volcanic features, including steam vents and sulphur banks. The park also features scenic drive along Crater Rim Drive, which offers breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape.
Shenandoah National Park, on the other hand, is known for its stunning mountain vistas and diverse wildlife. The park’s Skyline Drive offers a scenic drive through the mountains and is a popular activity for visitors. In addition to that, the park offers a range of outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. Visitors can also take guided walks and tours to learn about the park’s history and to see the diverse array of plants and animals that call this park home.
Both parks offer a range of activities to suit different interests and skill levels, making them popular destinations for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re looking to witness geological wonders, hike through stunning mountain landscapes, or simply explore the great outdoors, these parks have something to offer everyone.
Best Time to Visit Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the United States. Both parks offer a unique experience for visitors, but the seasonal weather at each park can greatly affect when is the best time to visit.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is located on the Big Island of Hawaii and experiences a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 60-90°F year-round. The park is wetter from October to April, with the occasional rain shower throughout the year. The park’s weather is ideal for outdoor activities, especially hiking and exploring the park’s volcanic landscapes, during the drier months of May to September.
Shenandoah National Park, located in Virginia, experiences four distinct seasons, with temperatures ranging from 20-80°F. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, with mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, making outdoor activities less comfortable. Winter can bring snow and ice, making some park roads and trails impassable. The park’s weather is ideal for hiking and exploring the park’s scenic Skyline Drive during the spring and fall seasons.
In conclusion, both parks offer unique experiences, but the seasonal weather greatly affects when is the best time to visit. Visitors to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park should plan their trip during the drier months of May to September, while visitors to Shenandoah National Park should plan their trip during the milder seasons of spring and fall.
Family Friendliness of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the United States, and both offer breathtaking scenery and a wealth of outdoor activities. However, when it comes to traveling with children, the two parks offer different experiences.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a great choice for families with older children who are interested in geology and natural history. With its active volcanoes, steam vents, and lava flows, the park offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of nature up close. However, the park can be quite challenging for younger children, as many of the trails are steep and rugged, and there are limited facilities for young children.
Shenandoah National Park, on the other hand, is a more family-friendly destination, with its rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic drives. The park offers a variety of easy hikes and picnic areas, as well as ranger-led programs for families and children. There are also several campgrounds and lodges within the park, making it a convenient option for families who want to spend a few nights in the great outdoors.
In conclusion, both Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Shenandoah National Park are great options for families, but each has its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. For families with older children who are interested in geology and natural history, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is a great choice. For those with younger children who are looking for a more relaxed outdoor experience, Shenandoah National Park is a better option.