Ben Gaddis, co-outings chair, is planning a photographic outing to Thurston Lava tube early on
Saturday morning December 8. Those interested in carpooling can contact Ben Gaddis at
GADDISB001 “at” hawaii.rr.com .
“At this time of the year the early morning light at Volcano just beautiful. To get full benefit though
you have to get up early. On Saturday, December 8th the photo club will sponsor an early morning photo outing to Thurston Lava Tube, aka Nahuku, in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Simply drive to the park. There is no entry fee if you are early.
Take the first left and proceed to Thurston on Crater Rim Drive. While Thurston Lava Tube is somewhat of a tourist trap by mid morning, it is usually quiet and beautiful early in the morning unless the park maintenance guy is there with his leaf blower.
For bird photographers there are usually good opportunities to take photos of Apapane, Omao, Elepaio, as well as the ubiquitous Kalij Pheasant. The bird calls are wonderful and the birds are used to tourists and photographers. The walk towards the lava tube descends through dense tree ferns and photo ops are everywhere.
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We suggest you bring rain gear, a tripod, telephoto and macro lenses and lots of coffee, tea or other breakfast things. After we shoot for a while we will probably reconvene at one of the camp grounds for breakfast. Anyone with respiratory problems should be aware that the pollution levels at the Park have been extremely high on some days recently due to the eruption. If the vog is bad at the Park it may be better to give the trip a pass.
Oh by the way, sunrise is at 6:52 AM. The best light show often starts even earlier. Hope to see you there. If there are any questions call Ben at 959-7986 or e-mail at the above address. If anyone needs a ride or wants to car pool let me know. “
- Ben Gaddis
