As we continue along Crater
Rim Drive, you likely won't miss the rising steam coming from
the ground; and you'll continue to notice the smell if nothing
else. As these steam vents you'll notice steam rising out of
the earth, and this steam is actually low amounts of sulfur
dioxide and hydrogen sulfide. Under the surface, an intrusion
of magma beneath has elevated local ground temperatures enough
that it causes local plants with deep root systems to die. Highly
fractured rocks and a very deep water table prevent the typical
hot springs and geysers from forming (as you see in Yellowstone
National Park). The steam coming from the earth at Steaming
Bluff is generated under the same conditions as the Steam Vents.
Legend has it that Kamapua'a,
a half-pig half-man demigod and lover of Pele, would stand at
Steaming Bluff and call to his lover, the fire goddess. Kamapua'a
and his relationship with Pele was both intense and warm at
the same time. From battle to love again, the two constantly
shared deep emotions. Pele can be found at home in Kilauea,
and Kamapua'a in the rain forests of Hawaii.
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