description Sulphur Banks Overview
The Sulphur Banks, known in Hawaiian as Ha'akulamanu, is a geothermal fumarolic area located near the summit caldera of Kīlauea volcano in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Volcanic gases, primarily sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, escape from underground magma and deposit bright yellow sulfur crystals on the surrounding rock. The site is accessible to visitors via a boardwalk that passes through the thermally active landscape.
help Sulphur Banks FAQ
Where are the Sulphur Banks located?
The Sulphur Banks, known in Hawaiian as Ha'akulamanu, are located near the summit caldera of Kīlauea volcano in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. They can be accessed via a short, accessible boardwalk trail just off Crater Rim Drive.
What gases are emitted at the Sulphur Banks?
The Sulphur Banks are a geothermal fumarolic area where volcanic gases escape from underground magma. The escaping gases are primarily composed of sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, which deposit bright yellow crystals of native sulfur on the surrounding rocks.
Is it safe to visit the Sulphur Banks in Hawaii?
While the Sulphur Banks are a popular tourist attraction, the area is known for poor air quality due to the constant emission of volcanic gases. Visitors with respiratory issues, pregnant women, and young children are advised to limit their exposure to the fumes.
What causes the colorful rocks at the Sulphur Banks?
The vibrant colors on the rocks are caused by the deposition of various minerals carried by the geothermal gases. As the superheated gases hit the cooler air, elements crystallize, leaving behind bright yellow sulfur, white gypsum, and rusty red iron oxides.
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