Hike Mauna Kea

Planning to hike the Mauna Kea Humuʻula Trail on Saturday 5/9. This out and back trail begins at the Ellison Onizuka Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station at an elevation of 9,200 ft and goes to the Mauna Kea summit with elevation of 13,803 ft (slightly less if we stop near the upper telescopes rather than the true summit). We will respectfully stop by sacred Lake Waiau along the way, which is a short diversion from the main trail at around 13,000 ft elevation. Round-trip distance for this hike is approximately 13.5 miles, with elevation gain of over 4,600 ft. It is a rewarding but strenuous hike, with amazing views back toward Mauna Loa and across the island.
Average temperatures at the visitor center range from high-40s to mid-50s F, and daily high temperatures at the top of Mauna Kea are in the mid-30s F this time of year. Be prepared for possibility of a brisk wind as well. Layered clothing for warmth and temperature regulation, a rain/wind jacket and a hat for sun protection are essential. Light gloves are recommended. Sunblock is also essential as the UV rays are much stronger at high elevation and we will likely be hiking above the cloud layer. Footing on the trail is generally good with only short sections going over lava rock, or loose dirt. The first two miles of the trail include a vigorous climb, with continual climbing thereafter. The last section of the trail between the lower and upper observatories requires hiking on the Mauna Kea Access Road (a bit over a mile).
Bring: Sturdy hiking shoes, hiking poles (optional), layered clothing, sun protection, rain/wind protection, at least 3-4 liters of water (more is better), and/or sports energy drink(s)), pack lunch/snacks, personal first aid supplies.
Consider: This hike brings a risk of altitude sickness, particularly when starting the day near sea level. It is generally recommended to spend 30 to 60 minutes at the visitor center prior to beginning the hike to get some initial adjustment to the higher altitude (we will wait at least 30 minutes from arrival to checking in with rangers). Note, each participant engages in this hike at his/her own risk. We will exercise caution in helping anyone who exhibits symptoms of altitude sickness in turning back or hiking out to the access road to catch a ride back down the mountain. Returning to lower elevation is the only safe remedy for altitude sickness. If you plan to attend the hike, please research this risk and any mitigation actions you can take to guard against it. Coming to the hike well-hydrated is one action that will lower risk.
We will meet at the parking lot at the Ellison Onizuka Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station at 6:30 am, with planned start to the hike by 7:00 am (sunrise will be around 6:00 am). Please use Event Chat feature if wanting to arrange carpool from Kona or Hilo area. Expect this hike to take 9 to 10+ hours depending on how the group moves on way up, and how much time we spend at the top.
Once arriving at the visitor center, you will be required to fill out a UH form to be handed to Mauna Kea Rangers prior to being permitted on trail. Blank forms are available in a box just to left of the main entrance to the visitor center. We can also submit the form as a group. The forms require emergency contact information and other contact details. There is cell service coverage for most of the trail.
Directions - Visitor Center and Trailhead: From either side of the island, take the Saddle Road, Hwy. 200, to Mauna Kea Access Road, near mile marker 28. From the turn (left turn coming from Kona; right turn coming from Hilo), follow the paved road for six miles to the Ellison Onizuka Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station. Park/meet in Visitor Center parking lot (first parking lot on right, below the visitor center). You don't need an AWD or 4WD to go to the Visitor Center.

** No Dogs Please. **

Please note the following:
• Meetup organizers are not tour guides and are not park rangers. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were hiking alone. You and your invitees are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being.
• By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you and your invitees acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that hiking and other outdoor activities can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possibly death. The organizers of this group and current and former members cannot be held responsible or liable in any way for the actions of any participant - including you - at any event.
• All attendees and their invitees participate at an event at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property, and/or any injury to themselves or their guests.
• By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you and your invitees affirm that you understand this disclaimer, and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event against the organizers of this Meetup group.