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Mountain · Hilo, Hawaii
Mauna Kea
The highest point in Hawaiʻi, at 4,207 meters, a sacred mountain for Hawaiians and home to major observatories. The visitor center at 2,800 meters is reachable by regular cars; above it the road requires four-wheel drive.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano forming the north-central part of the Island of Hawaiʻi. At 4,207 meters above sea level, it is the highest point in the state; measured from its base on the ocean floor it exceeds 10,000 meters. For Hawaiians, the summit is a sacred place, connected to gods and ancestors, and it contains religious sites and a high-altitude lake, Waiau.
Dry air, high altitude and dark skies made the summit one of the best places in the world for astronomy. More than a dozen telescopes from various countries sit there under white and silver domes. The presence of observatories on sacred land is a subject of debate in Hawaiʻi.
The Visitor Information Station, at about 2,800 meters, is at the end of the paved road and is open to regular cars. It is a mandatory acclimation stop for those going to the summit and has exhibits about the mountain. Above it, the roughly 13 km road is partly unpaved and very steep, and can only be driven with four-wheel drive during daylight.
At the summit, oxygen is about 40% lower than at sea level, and temperatures are often near zero. In winter, snow frequently covers the top. Many visitors go up with guided tours that provide the vehicle and cold-weather clothing.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Three to four hours from Hilo to the visitor center; half a day or more to reach the summit, including acclimation.
Best time
Late afternoon to see the sunset above the clouds, and early night at the visitor center to see the stars. The summit is closed to visitors after sunset. The road may close for snow, ice or wind.
How to get there
From Hilo via Saddle Road (Route 200) and the Mauna Kea Access Road, about 55 km and one hour by car to the visitor center. Many rental companies do not allow vehicles up to the summit; tours depart from Hilo and Kona. There is no entrance fee.
Tip
Stop at least 30 minutes at the visitor center before ascending and bring a heavy coat, hat and gloves. Small children, pregnant people and those with heart or respiratory conditions should not go to the summit.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mauna Kea
Can you drive up Mauna Kea with a regular car?
Only as far as the Visitor Information Station, at about 2,800 m. Above that, the road requires four-wheel drive, and many rental companies do not allow the ascent.
Is it cold on Mauna Kea?
Yes. At the summit temperatures are usually around freezing, often windy, and it can snow in winter. Bring warm clothing even in summer.
What is the elevation of Mauna Kea?
The summit is at 4,207 m, the highest point in Hawaii. The Visitor Information Station is at about 2,800 m.