This area receives enough rain to support rainforest. Much of this area is covered by fresh-looking lava flows. Vegetation is sparse because of the young age of the flows and the lower amount of rainfall. The road continues in the coastal area on the gently-sloping south flank of the volcano. The rocks here are 500-750 year old.
Vegetation is sparse due too low rainfall.
At the end of the road is the lava viewing area and the youngest rocks in the park. Viewing conditions often change. If your heart is set on seeing lava, Kilauea Eruption Viewing Conditions describes recent viewing conditions. Regardless of what the eruption is doing, Chain of Craters Road is one of the most scenic and spectacular drives in any national park. Please observe the speed limit and drive with caution.