The best traffic-free bike rides in Mauna Kea Ice Age Natural Area Reserve

Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and challenging experiences one can have on a bicycle and in the middle of the ocean! Setting off early in the morning from the quiet beach to reach the 4,207-meter summit of Mauna Kea is an immense satisfaction. The first part, from the city of Hilo up to a few kilometers before the Visitor Center at 2,700 meters, is relatively easy but also a bit monotonous. However, about a kilometer after taking the Mauna Kea Access Road, the gradient starts to rise steeply, often reaching double digits. Once you arrive at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station, after the mandatory stop at the Ranger Checkpoint, you can enjoy a well-deserved break and stock up on water before facing the toughest section of the entire climb. Immediately after the VIS begins a long stretch of unpaved road with sharp gradients and a surface that often offers little grip, putting even the strongest legs to the test. After this grueling segment, the ascent continues on asphalt again, but the slopes remain steep and the altitude begins to take its toll, making the final conquest of the summit truly a feat within a feat. Once you reach the long-awaited summit sign, you can finally take a deep breath of relief and admire—with a huge smile—the breathtaking view that awaits you. I traveled 31 hours to conquer this gem, and every bit of effort was more than worth it!

A superb experience. The highest point should not be climbed out of respect for the local religions.

Visitor center and checkpoint for car travelers. From here, further travel is only permitted with four-wheel drive.

Great Hike

The visitor center has restrooms, water, trail information, and a gift shop. There are plenty of short walks just out the door of the center that grant panoramic views south across the island to Mauna Loa. If you are hiking up to the summit of Mauna Kea, this is the perfect to start your adventure.

The Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station is located at 9,200 feet on Mauna Kea on Hawaii's Big Island, and serves as a crucial hub for visitors exploring this iconic mountain. There are restrooms, educational exhibits, a gift shop, and ranger-led programs, helping visitors acclimate to the high altitude and learn about the mountain's significance. Mauna Kea is sacred to Native Hawaiians, so be respectul of the area as if you were visiting a church or other religious site. There are several popular hiking trails around the visitor center including the Humuʻula Trail, which takes you to the summit of the mountain. Bikers can ride up the Mauna Kea Access Road to the summit, which is an amazing, unique experience for any cyclist. The road is a mix of paved and unpaved sections. Although it is not a technical trail, it is highly demanding, featuring steep inclines and loose gravel, making it suitable only for experienced bikers. Safety is paramount; bikers should prepare for sudden weather changes, cold temperatures, and the risk of altitude sickness by carrying adequate water, and food. You can also access the Kahinahina Road, or Mauna Kea Hunters Road, which circumnavigates the mountain, just south of the visitors center. If riding this extremely challenging road, the visitor center makes for a nice start/end point for a car shuttle.

Here in this area is the end of the pavement on Mauna Kea Access Rd. In this area, cyclists can find the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy's Mid-Level Facility, Maunakea Visitor Information Station, Mauna Kea Humu'ula Trailhead, and Halepohaku. Visitors should be careful while visiting due to the chances of getting altitude sickness due to this point being at 9,200 feet above sea level, and often visitors are coming from sea level. From here the road continues on but it is unpaved. The road is dirt and 4x4 cars are recommended. If cyclists are choosing to ride to the Mauna Kea summit, they should have a bike with the proper tires. Otherwise this is a great turn around spot, with great views!

Located on the north flank of Mauna Loa Volcano, this observatory is 11,135 feet above sea level (almost 3,000 feet lower than neighboring Mauna Kea). This research facility has been used since the 1950's and provides panoramic views of all the surrounding volcanic land. You'd think the buildings would have to pump in oxygen to ensure the 8 staff that operate the facility are not oxygen deprived.