The best road cycling routes in PuʻU MakaʻAla Natural Area Reserve

There are 6 road cycling routes documented on komoot for the Puʻu Makaʻala Natural Area Reserve area. These routes offer diverse experiences, ranging from easy to difficult, catering to various skill levels.

Road cycling in the Puʻu Makaʻala Natural Area Reserve region is characterized by dense, wet native rainforests with iconic koa and ʻōhiʻa trees, and towering hapuʻu tree ferns. You'll also encounter unique geological formations, including cinder cones, and areas of montane wet grasslands. Adjacent areas, like Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, feature dramatic volcanic landscapes and coastal scenery.

The routes in this region often involve significant elevation changes. For example, the Mauna Loa Road route, a difficult 23.3-mile path, ascends the slopes of Mauna Loa with an elevation gain of over 850 meters. Even moderate routes like Hilina Pali Road include over 600 meters of climbing.

Yes, there are routes suitable for various abilities. For beginners, the Crater Rim Drive offers an easier 13.3-mile ride with a more manageable elevation gain, providing a good introduction to road cycling in the region.

While cycling, you can expect breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and expansive ocean scenery, especially on routes within or near Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The reserve itself features dense native forests with koa and ʻōhiʻa trees, and hapuʻu tree ferns, along with unique cinder cone formations.

While specific parking details for each route are best checked on individual tour pages, access roads like Wright Road, Amaumau Road, and Stainback Highway lead to the reserve and may offer parking opportunities. For routes within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, designated parking areas are typically available at trailheads and viewpoints.

The Puʻu Makaʻala Natural Area Reserve is a protected area. While the core reserve is known for hiking, surrounding roads offer cycling. For detailed regulations regarding access and permits within the Natural Area Reserve, it's advisable to consult official state resources such as the DLNR Fact Sheet or the Land Management Plan. Within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, standard park entrance fees and regulations apply.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Road cyclists often praise the unique combination of dense rainforests, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and the challenging yet rewarding elevation changes. The diverse terrain and breathtaking scenery are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

Yes, for those who prefer circular rides, the Volcano to Keaʻau loop is a popular option. This difficult 47-mile route offers a comprehensive experience of the region's diverse landscapes.

The Big Island generally offers warm weather year-round, making it suitable for cycling in most seasons. However, the reserve itself is characterized by wet native rainforests, so be prepared for potential rain. Checking local weather forecasts before your ride is always recommended to ensure optimal conditions.

While the immediate vicinity of the Natural Area Reserve is largely undeveloped, the nearby Volcano Village, situated close to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, offers various amenities including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. These can serve as convenient bases for exploring the region's cycling routes.

Experienced cyclists looking for a challenge will appreciate routes like Chain of Craters Road, which spans 45.1 miles and offers extensive views of volcanic landscapes and coastal scenery. Another demanding option is the Volcano to Keaʻau loop, covering 47 miles with significant elevation.