Mauna Kea

Whether it be stargazing, taking pictures of the elusive silversword bloom, or simply gaining a new perspective on things, a drive up Mauna Kea is always worth it.

The summit of Mauna Kea is 4,207.3 m (13,803 ft) above sea level. Thirteen telescopes for astronomical observation have been built on top of Mauna Kea. And even though they are closed to the public, they make for good parking and photo opportunities. ^^ Since the peaks of the island of Hawaiʻi are sacred to Hawaiians (Mauna Kea being the most sacred), you may want to consider making one of the neighboring cinder cones your ultimate goal, rather than the summit itself. And, in any case, visit respectfully.

As the road is paved up to the Visitor Center at around 9,000 ft, you can drive your (rental) car there. If you would like to go higher, you will need a 4×4 with manual first/second gear. Rangers are there to check each car trying to go past the Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is a great location to acclimatise before pushing on toward the top. Stop in to learn about the observatories at the top, and Ellison Onizuka, or you can walk around the area and find Mauna Kea silversword, a plant that only grows on Hawai’i, only at this particular altitude, and will only bloom once every few years.

You may even choose to stay at the Visitor Center for stargazing. It is not as chilly here as it is at the very top, and the stars are just as amazing from here. Also, if there is research activity going on in the observatories, you may be asked to leave the summit area soon after dark.

There is nowhere that we know of to buy food or drink on the mountain, and there is no gas. So come prepared, and, of course, pack out whatever you bring.