volcanochaser > The fissures in the Southwest Rift Zone on the summit of Kilauea is a favorite spot to explore in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.  Bear Grylls as well as millions of tourists have been here over the years.
volcanochaser > Another view of second bridge crossed by Bear.  A very popular area for tourists also, since it is only a few minutes from Crater Rim Drive.
volcanochaser > Panorama of the flow field through the center of the remaining Royal Gardens subdivision.  The flow field has tended to expand to the west (left) in recent days, but has also been very active over older flows in the center.  The subdivision of about 1800 one-acre lots used to extend two more miles from the base to near the ocean in the lower flats.  No utilities, such as phone service, sewer, electricity and water were available when the subdivision was first invaded by lava in the 1980's.  Oct 24, 2008
volcanochaser > Closer view of the active flows devastating the forest on the western part of Royal Gardens.  Oct 24, 2008
volcanochaser > Several a'a flows converge as they approach the base of Royal Gardens.  Harsh sunlight washes out most of the orange glow during sunny days.  Oct 24, 2008
volcanochaser > The HVO scientists board the chopper after collecting lava samples.  Only choppers on official business can land in active areas or on the National Park to the west (left).  Tour choppers must fly at least 500 feet above the surface.  Oct 24, 2008
volcanochaser > The HVO scientists head back to the chopper after collecting fresh lava samples for analysis. Oct 24, 2008
volcanochaser > The HVO scientists head back to the chopper after collecting fresh lava samples for analysis.  A lava stream can be seen descending on the left.  Oct 24, 2008
volcanochaser > Very fluid pahoehoe spreads out to fill a low spot in a previous flow.  Strong sunlight washes out much of the familiar orange glow from the liquid lava breaking out from under the shiny crust. Oct 24, 2008.
The fissures in the Southwest Rift Zone on the summit of Kilauea is a favorite spot to explore in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Bear Grylls as well as millions of tourists have been here over the years.
volcanochaser > The fissures in the Southwest Rift Zone on the summit of Kilauea is a favorite spot to explore in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.  Bear Grylls as well as millions of tourists have been here over the years.
The fissures in the Southwest Rift Zone on the summit of Kilauea is a favorite spot to explore in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Bear Grylls as well as millions of tourists have been here over the years.
See photo in gallery