1966 Map of Sulphur Cone

About this map

Sulphur Cone and the Southwest Rift Zone dominate this mid-century topographic study of the active volcanic landscape within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The map documents a stark environment defined by geological activity, specifically tracing the extents of the Lava Flow of 1851 and the more recent Lava Flow of 1950. These frozen rivers of stone cross the district boundary between the North Kona and Kau Districts, showing the relentless transformation of the terrain. Human presence is sparse but significant, marked by the Old Hawaiian Trail and a Jeep Trail that navigate the slopes near Sleeping Cave. The survey also captures prominent cinder cones and landmarks such as Red Cone, Puu O Uo, and Kohalapilau, providing a technical record of the island's evolving volcanic architecture before later eruptions further altered the surface.