News Release

Work to Replace Lava Tube Bridge Begins April 23

The bridge into Nāhuku lava tube will be replaced starting April 23, 2026

NSP Photo

News Release Date: April 17, 2026
Contact: HAVO Public Affairs

HAWAII NATIONAL PARK, Hawaiʻi – Work to replace the deteriorating bridge into Nāhuku lava tube in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park will start Thursday, April 23. The lava tube will remain open, but entrance and exit will be on the east (or “exit”) end only. 

The rainforest trail, the stairs that lead to the trail and about 50 feet of the lava tube entrance beyond the bridge will also be closed during the upgrade. The bridge replacement project should be complete by the end of June. 

Nāhuku, also called Thurston Lava Tube, is a one of the most popular features in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The lava tube was formed during the ʻAilāʻau eruption from Kīlauea volcano about 500 years ago. 

Parking is extremely limited at Nāhuku and it is recommended that visitors explore the lava tube before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. for the best chance of getting a parking spot. The lava tube is open 24 hours but is only lit between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Flashlights are recommended outside of those hours. 

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About the National Park Service. The National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of this and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov. 

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