Hiking the Mauna Loa Observatory Trail

The island’s many treasures is the Mauna Loa Observatory Trail, a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience that takes adventurers to the summit of one of the world’s largest active volcanoes.

Mauna Loa

Mauna Loa, which means “Long Mountain” in Hawaiian, is an iconic feature of the Big Island’s landscape, towering over the island as one of the largest shield volcanoes on Earth. Rising to an impressive height of 13,678 feet above sea level, Mauna Loa offers intrepid hikers the opportunity to ascend to its summit via the Mauna Loa Observatory Trail, located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

The Mauna Loa Observatory Trail Experience

The Mauna Loa Observatory Trail is a challenging yet unforgettable hiking experience that takes adventurers through a diverse range of volcanic landscapes. Starting at the Mauna Loa Observatory, located at an elevation of over 11,000 feet, the trail winds its way up the slopes of the volcano, passing through ancient lava fields, barren landscapes, and alpine shrublands.

Trail Highlights

Along the Mauna Loa Observatory Trail, hikers will encounter a variety of stunning natural features and landmarks, including:

Mauna Loa Observatory: The trail begins at the Mauna Loa Observatory, a research facility operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that monitors atmospheric conditions and studies climate change.
Red Hill: Approximately 3 miles into the hike, hikers will reach Red Hill, a prominent feature of the trail named for its reddish-hued volcanic cinder.
Summit Cabin: At the end of the trail lies the Mauna Loa Summit Cabin, a rustic shelter located near the summit of the volcano. The cabin provides a welcome refuge for hikers seeking rest and shelter from the elements.

NOTE: Mauna Loa Summit Cabin is not accessible from Mauna Loa Trail due to trail damage from the 2022 Mauna Loa eruption.

Tips For a Successful Hike

Hiking the Mauna Loa Observatory Trail requires careful planning and preparation due to its high elevation and challenging terrain. Here are some essential tips and safety guidelines to consider before embarking on the hike:
Acclimatize: Spend a few days at higher elevations on the island before attempting the hike to acclimatize to the altitude.
Check the weather: Weather conditions on Mauna Loa can be unpredictable and extreme, with rapid changes in temperature and the potential for high winds and fog. Check the forecast before setting out and be prepared for adverse conditions.
Bring plenty of water and snacks: The hike to the summit can take several hours, so be sure to bring an ample supply of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
Dress in layers: Temperatures on Mauna Loa can vary widely, so dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable throughout the hike. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and sunscreen to protect against the sun’s rays.

How to Get to Mauna Loa Observatory Trail

Enter Hawaii Volcanoes National Park through the main entrance located off Highway 11. Drive along Crater Rim Drive until you reach the Mauna Loa Observatory Access Road, which is located near the park’s headquarters and visitor center. Turn onto Mauna Loa Observatory Access Road and continue driving until you reach the trailhead parking area, which is marked by signs indicating the start of the Mauna Loa Observatory Trail.
There are no specific parking fees for the Mauna Loa Observatory Trail, but you will need to pay the entrance fee for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is $30 per vehicle for a seven-day pass. Alternatively, you can purchase an annual pass for $55.
The trailhead parking area has limited parking spaces, so it’s advisable to arrive early, especially during peak visitor times. The number of available parking spaces can vary depending on factors such as time of day and park visitation levels.
If the trailhead parking area is full, you may need to wait for a spot to open up or consider visiting at a less busy time. Avoid parking in undesignated areas or blocking access roads to ensure the safety and convenience of all visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Mauna Loa Observatory Trail?

The round-trip distance of the Mauna Loa Observatory Trail is approximately 17 miles, with an elevation gain of over 4,000 feet from the trailhead to the summit.

How long does it take to hike the Mauna Loa Observatory Trail?

The hike to the summit of Mauna Loa and back typically takes 2-3 days for most hikers, depending on fitness level and weather conditions. Some experienced hikers may complete the hike in a single day, but this is not recommended due to the high elevation and strenuous nature of the trail.