Mauna Kea Summit & Observatoy
- Address:Saddle Road, Hilo
- Hours:Open daily 9am - 10pm
- Admission:Free
12:18 AM Friday, May 25
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Whether you’re a budding astrophysicist or just a fan of Big Bang Theory, take the opportunity while you’re on the Big Island to visit the Mauna Kea Summit and Observatory.
At a lofty height of 13,796 ft (4,138 m) Mauna Kea is Hawaii's tallest mountain, and the summit is topped with astronomical observatories from around the world.
The Visitor Information Station is at a lowly 9,300 ft (2,790 m) elevation, and from here a rugged hiking trail winds to the summit. It takes around five hours and you need to be fit and prepared for all kinds of weather conditions.
The visitor center has interactive displays and videos, with interactive telescopes, talks and tours. It also runs escorted tours to the summit.
Latest Reviews All Mauna Kea Summit & Observatoy Reviews »
Excellent from pickup at hotel to organisation of taxi on departure the staff were friendly and competent.The trip itself was spectacular and made even better by the extremely competent pilot who was both informative about the places seen and considerate of the passengers by preparing them in advance for maneuvers made by the helicoptor.
Continue Reading »Practical Info
The Visitor Information Station is an hour’s drive from Hilo, via Highway 200. The best way to get here, and to the summit, is on an organized tour.
