Rising 32,000 feet from the base of the Pacific Ocean to its sparkling Hawaiian summit, Mauna Kea is the highest island mountain on the planet and a magnet for experienced hikers. If you are adept enough to conquer the dormant volcano, a mountain of bragging rights will be yours, including experiencing life above 40 percent of the Earth’s atmosphere. While the rewards may be alluring, they don’t come without risks. Day hiking to 13,976 feet above sea level requires stringent preparation and realistic expectations.
Extreme Endeavor
- To access the 6-mile summit trail, drive along the Big Island of Hawaii’s Saddle Road to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station, located at the 9,200-foot level. Park your vehicle, complete a free hiking permit, take a map and spend time acclimating to the high altitude and dry air. From here, it will take roughly five hours to reach the summit and three hours to descend; most experienced hikers take at least 10 hours to complete the expedition. Start your hike at dawn in order to maximize daylight and wear appropriate gear. Average summit temperatures range from 32 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit with inclement weather -- including high winds, fog and snow -- occurring with little warning. Don sturdy boots, as you will be traversing steep grades covered with large boulders and jagged cinders. The trail is not equipped with restrooms, public transportation, reliable cell service, emergency medical aid or water.
Hike Highlights
- Even if you don’t make it to the top of Mauna Kea, you’ll still experience an epic adventure in paradise. Trek roughly 2,500 feet above the Visitor Information Station to view one of Hawaii’s most historic geological sites. The Mauna Kea Ice Age Natural Area Reserve is home to a stark alpine desert dotted with glacial deposits. Crevice marked rubble reveals what took place thousands of years ago when molten lava merged with Pleistocene glaciers. At the 12,000-foot mark, the trail levels off temporarily. Take a moment to soak up the scenery. On a clear day, you'll be treated to unprecedented views of the Hawaiian Archipelago. Climb another 1,000 feet to visit the state’s only alpine lake. Lake Waiau is culturally significant, as ancient Hawaiians considered it a gateway to the underworld. The nearly 2-acre lake varies in depth depending on weather conditions. You may take photos of the crystal clear body of water, but are not allowed to touch it.
Know Before You Go
- As tempting as it may be to ascend Hawaii’s “White Mountain,” you may be placing yourself in serious danger if you are not careful. The summit of Mauna Kea contains 40 percent less oxygen and air pressure than at sea level. Consequently, if you are younger than 16 years old, pregnant, obese or have high blood pressure or any type of heart or lung issue, consult your physician before making the climb. In addition, don’t plan to scale the sacred mountain within 24 hours of scuba diving. Doing so can trigger decompression sickness which can possibly lead to death.
Hike Wisely
- Hiking Mauna Kea is a daunting expedition. However, the rewards are great for trekkers who properly prepare for the mountain’s challenging terrain. Dehydration at high altitudes is exceptionally dangerous; carry plenty of water and plan frequent rest breaks. Avoid making your descent late in the day when clouds roll in and daylight fades. Hiking down crumbling cinders and decaying dirt in the dark is risky. If conditions become too treacherous, exit the hiking trail, walk to the unpaved road and try flagging down a motorist to secure a ride back to the Visitor Information Station.
