Mauna Kea, Hawaii’s most famous volcanic dormant mountain along with its rich source of the Hawaiian tradition, offers bundles of thrilling activities that have made it a much sought out destination for visitors.

Located in the north-central reaches of Hawaii’s Big Island, Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano mountain and is a ‘Wahi Pana’ (sacred place) to the native Hawaiians.

Named Mauna Kea, which literally means ‘White mountain’ due to its snow-capped aspect, is believed to possess the realm of Gods on its summit which, according to the natives, connects the people to the cosmos. Yes, this may appear as if apart from being a big chunk of the Hawaiian culture, the mountain would only be relevant to history geeks and religious visitors. But, in fact, just like any other mountain or maybe more than any, Mauna Kea is packed with bundle of activities for the adventure junkies.

However, visitors must note that Mauna Kea is a sanctuary and one of the most sacred spaces for the Hawaiians. Therefore, when visiting any side or engaging in any activities in the mountain, one should tread carefully such as not moving anything or taking something away. Visitors must treat the place with respect so as not to disrespect the locals.

Mauna Kea Summit Access

Those planning to ride to the summit of the mountain would do well to remember that they would need a 4×4 vehicle with a 4-wheel drive ‘low’ capability. Since the road is not paved, most rental car agencies do not permit taking the rental vehicle up to the Mauna Kea summit. Check in at the Visitor Information Station, and wait at least 30 minutes before ascending the summit, as it takes time to get acclimatised to the high altitude. One can take this time to go through the bundle of souvenirs and snacks available at the centre’s store.

Due to frequent changes in weather conditions, one must keep a check on the latest weather reports before conducting any activity here.

Once the journey to the top begins, visitors frequently have the fortune to experience the surreal view of clouds drifting further up ahead, which many new travellers assume to be fog. Those with respiratory challenges should avoid riding up here as the level of oxygen gradually stumbles down when one goes up. The summit access road closes 30 minutes after sunset and re-opens 30 minutes again before sunrise.

Star gazing

Star gazing in Mauna Kea is unlike any other in the world. Considered to be the ultimate stargazing location, Mauna Kea has 13 observatories built here since the 1990s. With its clear and calm dry air along with the dark skies, Mauna Kea provides the best conditions to view the bright twinkling stars in Hawaii’s night sky. If by chance lady luck decides to favour visitors, they get to witness shooting stars in the midst of their gazing.

For stargazing, it is best to check with the Visitor Information Station that provides the ideal location in all of the mountain to view stars.

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Sunsets and sunrise at Mauna Kea

Apart from stargazing, the mountain is ideal for another leisure activity – watching sunrise and sunsets. Yes, one is in for a treat or perhaps in awe when one drives to the summit and becomes a spectator to the spectacular view of the sun in all its glory painting the sky in blazing colours as it sets to rise or descend.

From sand to snow during winter

One of the unique traits that visitors get to experience during the winter is being able to walk through the warm sand on the Hawaiian coast and then having their feet covered in boots in the next moment to shelter them from the cold snow when visiting Mauna Kea. The contrast is sure to surprise many and that is the reason it attracts numerous visitors during the winter months who wish to witness this unique phenomenon.

Snow sledding

According to the local folktales, the Goddess Poli‘ahu pays a visit to the mountain during the winter months. At the time the summit is covered with fresh snow, and many island residents head to the summit to observe a ‘Hawaiian Snow Day’. During the period, many locals and visitors enjoy making snowmen and go sledding using boogie boards. Adventure enthusiasts are sure to be thrilled when they get to ride these boards in the snow. However, do keep in mind that one can reach high speed or crash at high speeds into the exposed rocks when sledding in Mauna Kea. Many injuries have been reported and hence visitors must tread carefully if sledding on the mountain.

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