Chain of Craters Road and other previously closed roads are now open as unrest and seismicity has diminished in Kīlauea volcano’s upper East Rift Zone (ERZ) and near its summit.

Areas accessed by Chain of Craters Road, Hilina Pali Road, and Kulanaokuaiki Campground are now open to vehicle traffic. Backcountry sites have reopened as well.

Since late July, an increase in earthquakes and seismic activity along the upper ERZ of Kīlauea resulted in large cracks and ground faults on Chain of Craters Road and Maunaulu parking lot.

On August 21, Chain of Craters Road closed to vehicle traffic after cracks suddenly grew in size and depth after new earthquakes. Park staff monitored the road over the last week and determined the cracks were not increasing in size and travel at low speeds would not deteriorate the road further.

Visitors to Chain of Craters Road should drive with extra caution, obey the speed limit, and slow down for any and all cracks, humps, and wildlife.