A Mid-Elevation Woodland and Succession on the 1974 Flow Eruptions from Southwest Rift in 1974 occurred at about the 4,000 ft. elevation. You can see this flow from near the top of the Chain of Craters Road. This recent flow cut through a mid-elevation woodland. This site combines an examination of this forest and the lava flow.
Succession is the process of change in a plant community.
Pioneer species are those that typically invade new substrates. You'll see several of these pioneers. Travel on the Crater Rim Drive to the Chain of Craters Road. Go down the Chain of Craters Road. You'll only go a short distance, so proceed slowly.