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Only in Hawai’i

Earth's most active volcano can be experienced by locals and visitors, thanks to the commitment of two geologists

When Zane Smith and Erik Stoffel became college roommates, little did they know the future would take them on a joint journey to the Big Island of Hawai’i. 

Zane was born and raised in Idaho, while Erik was born in California and then moved to Idaho. Like most children, they loved volcanoes. The power of nature, put on full display, fascinated them. That longing for discovery only increased through the years. 

As University of Idaho graduates with geology majors, they were trained in volcanic theory and hazards, tectonic activity, and the processes that shape the planet’s surface and interior. However, despite all the knowledge they acquired, they also enjoyed the simple idea of visiting the Big Island and observing its wonders.

“We documented volcanic eruptions through photography and film, enjoyed nature, Madame Pele, and the overwhelming sights and sounds,” Zane recalls. “When all is said and done, it's not complicated and scientific, it's about just being there.”

Taking advantage of their profession, Zane and Erik started bringing their families and friends along on their excursions. They would point out historical locations, share interesting facts about formations, and astonish their companions with Kīlauea’s glowing lava. “Everything is more fun with a party. Driving around the island sightseeing, eating and drinking all day, what could be better?” Zane says. 

Through word of mouth, the adventures soon turned into tours, attracting people who were interested not just in seeing the land, but also learning from it. As a result, the duo started Hawaii Geo Tours, bringing expert-level knowledge to residents and visitors alike.

“The Big Island is known for its small business owners, and we wanted to be part of this community. When we started and met with people around the island, they got excited to have two geologists who were interested in showing the history, culture, natural features, and wonder of Hawai’i to others,” Zane says.  

However, though nature is a wonder, it is sometimes difficult to understand. That’s why professionals like Zane and Erik are needed in those fields to help prepare, communicate, and teach. Part of Hawaii Geo Tours’ existence is to overcome the misconceptions of a classic volcano and provide knowledge and insight on how the volcanoes in Hawai’i behave. 

“We are so fortunate to have the safest active volcano on Earth,” Zane adds. “Most volcanoes, when they erupt, can be violent by nature, but not ours. Kīlauea is a ‘spewing’ volcano with lava, and rarely causes explosions of ash and rock. She is also the most active volcano on the planet, so she doesn’t have time to build up the extreme pressure of explosions. But you do have to respect her. She has a cycle of about 100 years or so, and at the end of that cycle, she has quite a finale. The volcano is closed for days to weeks due to hazards, but luckily, it is rare.” 

When asked about his favorite memory of a volcano, Zane points back to last year. “It is always nostalgic to remember older eruptions, but the current one is unbelievable. Starting on December 23rd, 2024, we’ve had 22 episodes of lava fountains at the summit. Many historic eruptions involve hiking, extra driving, helicopters, etc. Our eruption this year is near the entrance of the park and available to all.” 

According to Zane, the best way for people to experience the Big Island is to get out and see it, whether it is with Hawaii Geo Tours or on their own. Kīlauea and Mauna Loa are part of the huge Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, and like all national parks, are wonders to marvel at with the whole family.  

“The National Park is not in the business of putting people at risk; it is safe,” Zane assures. However, like anywhere in the National Park system or off in nature, he advises not to venture beyond the public access.

With so many rental car companies available on the Big Island, it is now easy for people to get to Kīlauea. Yet, Hawaii Geo Tours also offers the option to be picked up in Kona or Waikoloa to start its tours. There’s no reason to miss it.

“This is historically big,” Zane says. “We’ve had fountains of lava up to 1000 feet. It is always great to visit Kīlauea, but now is the time to experience it in all of her glory, whether you live here or are just visiting. We’ll see you there.”

Learn more at HawaiiGeoTours.com.

It's not complicated and scientific, it's about just being there.

We wanted to be part of this community.

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