Do your research in advance to know what to expect in terms of the process for driving up and the car and health requirements. The road up was very manageable in our opinion. The views at the top were SO spectacular and the sunset was one of the coolest we have ever seen.

Reaching the summit of Mauna Kea was a highlight of our time in Hawaii. Being at 13,000+ feet in elevation was an experience. We took the trip up in a 4x4 van and it was definitely something we will remember forever. The views from the summit were amazing. We totally want to come back and do a sunset and stargazing tour.

Beautiful! I’m so glad the locals prevailed and kept the Summit the way it is; prevented the building of a huge observatory. There are already a number of them, but thankfully these will be all. The quiet summit above the clouds is a unique place and sacred to Hawaiians. Be aware that the 4WD requirement is strictly enforced. Also be sure you have at least 1/2 tank of gas. Our Truro person rented us a Jeep with only 1/4 tank of gas. We didn’t notice it. The kind agent at the Ranger Station pointed it out, and we returned to Hilo for more gas. We would not have made it up the mountain and back if he hadn’t told us!

We arrived at the visitors centervaround 615, as we heard parking could be a challenge. At that time there were plenty of spots left. Nice small Center with bathrooms. We walked across the road to join lots of others at the top of a hill for sunset viewing. Lots of people but it felt festive, not crowded. A lot of folks left after that but we (4 of us) laid on a beach blanket to 830 to see the stars. It was cold but worth it - breathtaking. Road is steep but we'll marked and maintained.

We drove up to Mauna Kea for the sunset. There is a large parking lot next to the visitors center. The visitors center has public restrooms. Although we were in a 4WD vehicle, we opted not to go to the summit. It was really close to sunset when we arrived. We parked, walked across the road and followed other groups up to the top of a large hill. The viewing was spectacular. We went the first week in March. Even though we were having beach days, Mauna Kea was having winter storm warnings that week! You need warm clothes up there! As we drove up the sun was shining. We saw a rainbow end to end! When we parked and stepped out of the jeep it was cold! Think pants, jackets, layers, gloves! We walked through a cold mist. It almost seemed like snow flurries hiking up the hill. You need good shoes with traction. It’s a short but steep climb up the hill on dirt and rocks. The view is rewarding. We don’t regret not going to the actual summit. Coming down after the sunset it was even colder. We were hiking through clouds. It was nice to experience.