Mauna Kea

The best place to watch the stars at night is at the Visitor Center! Because, after dark, you're not allowed to stay on the mountaintop to watch the stars. That's the rule!!! After sunset, but before dark, staff will start telling everyone to hurry down the mountain to the Visitor Center to watch the stars.

We signed up for a sunset and stargazing tour, and were picked up at our hotel at 3:00 AM. The road up the mountain is said to be difficult to drive on, requiring a four-wheel drive and potentially subject to inspections. Sunset is at the summit, and stargazing is at the visitor center. We had to rest at the visitor center for at least half an hour before continuing up; going straight up would be uncomfortable.

There really is a big difference between 2900 meters and 4000 meters, and oxygen tanks are not popular abroad, so I had to take a break and slowly adapt. My mother did feel uncomfortable.

There is a fixed time every week when professional equipment is put out for tourists to watch the stars.

There is a lot of food at the visitor center, and free hot water is available outside the door.

It’s time to set~ The sunset started, and it was very fast, the salted egg yolk fell down in a thud.

After watching the sunset, everyone headed down the mountain to the visitor center to see the stars. My phone photos were all pitch black, but seeing it in person was truly breathtaking! No light pollution, the sky was awash with stars. The tour guide even put on a star show, teaching us how to spot the stars. Unfortunately, most of us didn't understand.

I checked the weather website the day before and it was sunny with strong winds, but I was a little worried about the heavy rain and fog on the way from Hilo. Ten minutes before reaching the base of the mountain, it suddenly cleared up, so you have to trust the official weather reports. We arrived at the visitor center at 4:20 AM and rested for half an hour before heading up the mountain. Sunset was at 5:52 AM, so half an hour was plenty of time to get up the mountain without being frozen for too long. I was worried about the dirt road, so I didn't rent a 7-seater, fearing it would be narrow and unsafe. The road conditions were much better than I expected, perfectly suitable for long-term self-driving in Yunnan, Guizhou, Sichuan, and Chongqing. I used L3 gear. The sea of clouds and sunset were stunning! I drove L3 again on the descent (even though the visitor center recommended L2 for the ascent and L1 for the descent). I was incredibly lucky to see two meteors and stardust through the telescope. It was a fantastic stargazing experience!

You can drive directly to the visitor center at an altitude of 2,800 meters (9:00 AM - 11:00 PM). It's incredibly cold up there, a world away from the foothills! It's recommended to bring some dry food; the visitor center has hot water for instant noodles. Otherwise, being hungry and cold will definitely dampen your stargazing experience. You can also continue to the summit, but the staff will check your vehicle type, so cars are definitely not allowed. There are no street lights along the way, so I personally think the visitor center is at a sufficient altitude.

Before going, it is recommended to check the sunset time and weather on the official website to avoid rainy days.

The visitor center has a large parking lot and a small shop that provides fast food such as instant noodles. There is a place to get hot water at the door, don't worry, it's free. There are also toilets, but there will be a long line in the women's toilet, you know.

Stargazing activities are organized here on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Telescopes and other things should be available for tourists to use, and they are free. It just happened that it was a day off when we came.

In addition, the small shop also sells some souvenirs and cold-resistant equipment, but the prices are quite expensive. You can choose according to your own situation. The altitude of the Mauna Kea Observatory is about 4,000 meters, and the temperature is still very low. When I went up, my ankles were still exposed, so I bought a pair of woolen socks, which cost more than 100 yuan. This is the most expensive socks I have ever worn!

The roads leading up the mountain were all unpaved, and every car in front of us kicked up a cloud of sand. The winding road was quite bumpy. Sometimes our car faced the sun, so glaring that we couldn't even see the road ahead. Then, the next, we faced away from it, offering a panoramic view of the sea of clouds and distant mountains.

It was already 17:40 when we went up. There were so many cars on the top of the mountain that it was almost impossible to find a parking space.

As the sun gradually set, it soon became dark. Because there was no light pollution at the top of the mountain, but with the temperature dropping and the high altitude, many tourists went down the mountain one after another without waiting for the starry sky.

I've never seen such a clear and pure Milky Way. Halfway up the mountain, the surroundings were vast and empty, devoid of even a speck of light pollution. The sky felt like a sphere, 180 degrees around me. The Milky Way was unbroken, stretching from one end to the other. That awe-inspiring feeling is still lingering in my mind as I write this travelogue. True beauty must be experienced in person; photos can't capture even one ten-thousandth of its beauty!

I did experience some altitude sickness, the main symptom being a headache. The clouds blocked the sun, so I didn't get to see a perfect sunset. Finally, Huawei is awesome...

I think it's not just about scenery, you can also learn a lot! If you listen carefully

A worthwhile attraction, but be sure to check the stargazing forecast in advance. A four-wheel drive vehicle is required to reach the summit. When you reach the visitor center at 2800 meters, remember to rest for 20 minutes before ascending, as you may experience slight altitude sickness. Wear plenty of clothes, as the wind can be strong. The sunset is beautiful, and the stargazing at night is fantastic.

Here are some tips and tricks before visiting Mauna Kea:

The mountaintop is incredibly cold. In late September, while the temperature at the foot of the mountain was over 30 degrees Celsius, the summit was around 0 degrees Celsius, practically indistinguishable from winter. Therefore, if you plan to hike up the mountain during your Hawaiian tropical island trip, you'll need to bring a thick coat. If you don't want to bring a coat, you can opt for a group tour, some of which provide coats.

The visitor center sells thick coats and food at reasonable prices. However, be aware that it's closed on Sundays (after the summer of 2018)! So if you're planning to hike on a Sunday, be sure to bring some good food; you won't be able to find the affordable instant noodles mentioned in other travelogues. A closed visitor center means no one will check if your vehicle is a four-wheel drive. However, for your own safety, you should still drive a four-wheel drive to the summit.

3. For self-driving, the road conditions are perfectly fine. The road is wide, and some sections are paved. Just master the four-wheel drive (using 4L) and you're good to go. The scenery along the way is also stunning, so self-driving is highly recommended for this section.

4. Some guides suggest that the road back to Hilo after descending the mountain will be difficult due to heavy fog, so it's best to return to Kona. We had no choice but to return to Hilo. The fog was certainly there, but not enough to change our itinerary. If you're afraid of danger, just drive a little slower; it's not stressful.

5. Don't go around the 15th day of the lunar calendar; you won't be able to see the stars at all. Stars are visible here over 300 days a year, but only on the days surrounding a full moon. The massive moon appears early in the sky, blotting out the stars. We strongly recommend checking the moon phases before planning your Hawaii itinerary. We were in a hurry and planned our four-day trip to the Big Island around a full moon, so we didn't get to see the Milky Way.

6. Fill up the tank before going up the mountain. Four-wheel drive, high slopes and air conditioning consume a lot of fuel.

7. Whether you are departing from Kona or Hilo, you should set off around 3:00 a.m. This will give you some time to adapt to the high altitude environment at the visitor center.

8. Altitude sickness. At over 4,000 meters, the air is thin, and many people experience altitude sickness (like me). I've climbed peaks over 4,000 meters before and felt perfectly fine, but I don't know why the altitude sickness was so severe this time. My headache started the moment I got to the top, and I lay in the car for a long time without getting better. I persevered through the sunset and then scrambled back down. This is why it's recommended to stay at the visitor center for a while to acclimate to the plateau.

Because I had severe altitude sickness, I just took a few random photos and didn't have the time to find the right position or angle. The actual view is much better than the photo.

If you are interested in celestial bodies, you must go to see Mauna Kea.

At an altitude of 2,800 meters, there is a simple visitor center, which provides hot water and several donated telescopes for visitors to use. The road from the visitor center to the summit is steep and narrow, requiring a four-wheel drive vehicle. Children under 13 are prohibited from climbing the summit, but are allowed to stay at the visitor center. The weather is very cold on the mountain, so wearing a down jacket is recommended. Many visitors climb the mountain in the evening to watch the sunset and then gaze at the stars. Visitors who wish to watch the stars should bring their own dinner and wear a down jacket. Celestial lectures are available at the visitor center.

After watching the sunset for more than half an hour, the sky gradually darkened. I was thinking that after the sun sets, the sky will be full of stars!

I was wondering why everyone was leaving the mountain one after another. I was puzzled, but I still insisted on waiting for the starry sky I imagined...

Finally, it was just the three of us left, sitting on a dark hill, leaning against each other, looking up at the bright moon with a halo around it. It felt so peaceful...

It is precisely because there is such a huge moon, so, so~~~there is no sky full of stars, and nothing goes as I wish!

But the three of us still quietly enjoyed this happy feeling, and couldn't bear to go down the mountain... Below the dark hill was a cliff. Although the silence was a little scary, we were not afraid, nor were we alone... Because the three of us were together...

There are pyramid-style buildings along the way, but our goal is the observatory, so we just admire them along the way and don't stop. The scenery along the way is also beautiful.

Generally, when you go to Mount Mauka, you will go to the visitor center at the foot of the mountain to adapt to the air pressure difference. The 7-mile mountain road from the visitor service center to the top is an unpaved gravel road with no guardrails on the roadside and steep cliffs.

There is almost no air pollution or light pollution on the top of Mauna Kea.

After reaching the top of the mountain, it is really a world of ice and fire. You can experience two different weather conditions in one day.

Regarding the stargazing options, I personally believe that the naked eye sees far fewer stars. So, you can actually see more stars at the visitor center than at the summit! We stopped at the visitor center on our way back, and we could tell that.

Friendly tips:

1. Do not engage in deep-sea diving (scuba diving or free diving) within 24 hours before and after ascending Mauna Kea, even at the 2,800-meter visitor center. Such a large altitude difference in a short period of time can permanently damage your cardiopulmonary function.

2. While you're at the hotel and the beach, it's sunny and sunny, perfect for sunbathing in bikinis. However, once you get up the mountain, the temperature drops dramatically at high altitudes. So be sure to pack plenty of warm winter clothes.

3. There's not much to eat on the mountain, especially for those traveling from China. It's recommended to pack some dinner before departure. Alternatively, you can sign up for a sunset stargazing tour.

4. Do not do strenuous exercise after going up the mountain, as it will easily cause altitude sickness.

If you plan to drive to the summit (4,205 meters) by yourself, it's recommended that you stop at the Visitor Center at 2,800 meters to acclimate to the altitude. Children under 16 are prohibited from climbing the summit, and elderly individuals are also not advised to do so. The altitude is too high and the temperature is very cold, around zero degrees Celsius.

6. You are not allowed to stay on the top of the mountain after dark. You can only stay until sunset. You can only go down to the tourist service center to watch the stars.

7. For those who are driving on mountain roads for the first time, it is not recommended to go to the top of the mountain. There is no big problem with the tourist service center. However, there are no street lights when going down the mountain at night. Especially for those who do not have much overseas self-driving experience, it is not recommended to drive at night.

8. We recommend setting off three hours before sunset and arriving at your sunset viewing point, whether at the visitor center or on the summit, at least 40 minutes before sunset. Check the lunar calendar in advance to avoid only seeing a bright moon! The weather on the mountain can change rapidly.

We climbed all the way to the visitor center at 2,800 meters, but it was still completely shrouded in dark clouds and we couldn't see anything. I was so desperate that I mentally prepared to come back the next day. The day we went up the mountain was Sunday, and the visitor center was closed, but the simple toilet was open and hot water was available. There were many groups coming to the mountain to watch the stars, and the tour guide said that we might not be able to see anything today.

After a half-hour break, we continued to drive to the top of the mountain. There was a sign at the intersection that only four-wheel drive vehicles could continue to go forward, but there was no staff to check because they were on vacation that day! So later on, we actually saw several cars on the top of the mountain. The unpaved gravel road was actually only a short section, and the paved road was still there. Halfway through, we slowly emerged from the clouds, and then, you can experience the feeling of being on the clouds yourself.

After sunset, the temperature dropped very quickly. Because the visitor center was closed, I don’t know if the observatory was also closed. No one came to ask everyone to go down the mountain. The surrounding vehicles had no intention of leaving. I wondered if they were preparing to spend the night on the top of the mountain to watch the stars. We didn’t have this idea and drove down the mountain. At that time, we didn’t understand the situation at 2,800 meters, so we thought about walking down slowly. When we were about to enter the clouds, we found a place to pull over. As a result, we went all the way down to the visitor center and still didn’t see any trace of clouds. The thick clouds just now disappeared just like that. We were really lucky.

After parking the car, it was still light outside, so we brought instant noodles and a small rice cooker and went to the visitor center to cook a big pot of hot noodles. After eating, we felt warm all over. When we finished eating, we looked up and saw that the sky was filled with stars and the Milky Way. I had only seen such a spectacular sight once in Queenstown in early autumn. My wish was fulfilled for a perfect trip to Mauna Kea.

Because I didn’t bring my camera, I don’t have any wonderful pictures to share with you here. Fortunately, there are many photos taken by the great masters in the forum. And no matter how beautiful the photos are, they can’t replace the feeling of being there yourself. If you have the chance, you should come and take a look!

We arrived at the visitor center early and stood in a better position (near the edge, which is convenient for stargazing at night). There was only one administrator at the door, who would require all cars reaching the summit to stay here for more than 30 minutes before driving up, in order to allow you to adapt to the altitude.

It was incredibly cold at the top. Even with our down jackets on, we could only go out for a short while before heading back to the car to keep warm. The clouds moved quickly, and sometimes it was completely cloudy, so we couldn't take any photos. We had to find the right moment to get out of the car and take photos. The observatory was a beautiful sight. The colors on the ground were stunning. The sunset over the observatory created another breathtaking scene. Back to the visitor center (you're not allowed to stay on the top at night; stargazing is only possible at the visitor center).

Tips:

1. When driving up the mountain, remember to rent a 4WD jeep, otherwise you won’t be able to go up the mountain. The mountain road is not difficult to drive, so remember to fill up the gas.

2. Children under 16 years old are not recommended to go to the top of the mountain. It is said that high altitude will affect the growth and development of children. However, you can go to the visitor center near 2800 meters.

3. After sunset, it is very cold in the mountains, so you need to wear something warm. The starry sky is something you can’t see in the city. Friends with SLR cameras can take great photos.

The mountaintop was barren, with not a single blade of grass and not much snow. The temperature was below zero, and I watched the sunset glow over the observatory. The wind was so strong that my hands hurt from the cold, and I shivered as I snapped a few photos. A young man, wrapped in summer clothes and a sleeping bag, poked his head out to take in the view. [He covered his face.] After sunset, I watched the starry sky.

When visiting Volcanoes National Park, it's recommended to visit the visitor center first to learn about the day's volcanic activity and lava flow patterns, as these are constantly changing. Dedicated experts and staff will patiently explain the situation and help you plan a route based on your desired timeframe for maximum volcanic viewing. Volcanoes National Park boasts numerous interesting trails, but we recommend two: the Lava Tubing Trail and the Kilauea Iki Crater Trail. We chose the Kilauea Iki Crater Trail, which leads to the bottom of Kilauea Iki's solidified, though still smoking, lava lake. This trail has two entrances, and we recommend choosing the one opposite the Lava Tubing Trail for a quicker descent. The entire trail is 6.4 kilometers long, with a vertical drop of 122 meters, so those planning to hike the entire route should be prepared for some challenges, such as ample water, sun protection, and time.

The mountain is like a meteorite crater, with almost no vegetation. I finally found a small flower.

I drove there three times over three consecutive days, but the weather was bad each time. The road was closed on the first day, and it started to rain and snow after I reached the top on the second day. I went again on the third day before my flight, but it was still cloudy at the top. Oh my god, I didn't see the starry sky and the Milky Way I was looking forward to. It was fun driving through the clouds, but it was a regret. I'll go there next time. The road to the top of the mountain is not difficult to drive. I saw two-wheel drive cars driving up, haha. But it's better to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle with steep descent control to be safer. Staying at the top for too long will cause altitude sickness and headaches. I recommend always paying attention to the real-time weather forecast on the official website to see weather conditions captured by surveillance cameras and road closure notices.

The temperature plummeted as we ascended the mountain, and I quickly changed into warm clothes. As we neared the summit, a sudden thick fog descended, reducing visibility to a crawl. I couldn't see a thing, but thankfully, my husband remained calm. Later, I realized we were walking through the thick cloud layer, and it took a long time for the fog to dissipate. As we neared the observatory, I glanced out the window and gasped, then couldn't help but exclaim, "Wow!" Tears welled up in my eyes. Was I moved to tears by the beauty? I really was! I never imagined I'd see such a dreamy starry sky in person. I'd only ever seen it in pictures, but now it was right before my eyes, and it happened so suddenly. As the trail climbed higher, the stars grew thicker and thicker. The night sky seemed to surround me, not just above me, but all around me, as if the road ended there. By the time we reached the observatory, most tourists had already finished watching the sunset and the sea of clouds and had descended, leaving the visitor center virtually devoid of light pollution.

Here are some tips and tricks before visiting Mauna Kea:

1. Whether you're traveling from Kona or Hilo, if you want to see the sunset, you must leave before 3:00 AM so you can arrive by 5:00 AM. We left the valley around 3:00 AM and drove for two hours to get there.

2. What to bring: In the summer, you'll need a jacket and long pants. It's best to wear a sweatshirt or sweater underneath the jacket. If you're afraid of the wind, bring a scarf.

It is best to bring a hot pack with you. You can put it on at the visitor center before going up the mountain. It is very useful.

Bring your own food, there is no place to buy food on the mountain.

3. Be sure to drive a four-wheel drive vehicle, as the last 1,000 meters of climbing is difficult and there is a dirt road.

4. At 3,000 meters, there's a visitor center. Upon arrival, a guide will advise you to stop for 30 minutes to prevent altitude sickness. When you return from the parking lot to the summit, you'll pass the same guide again. Tell him you've stopped and that you have a 4WD.

5. Make sure the car is fully fueled, as heating and climbing hills consume a lot of fuel.

The visitor center has toilets and hot water, sells some souvenirs, and has video explanations.

The landmarks on the top of the mountain are several observatories. It is said that these observatories are highly valued by the country. Tourists are not allowed to stay nearby after sunset to avoid affecting observation.

If you're visiting the Big Island of Hawaii, you absolutely must visit Mauna Kea to watch the sunset! It's the #1 recommendation.

ps: Be careful when driving down the mountain to the visitor center because there is no road.

Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano over 4,000 meters above sea level, boasts the world's highest observatory. We visited on Christmas Day. We hiked up a bumpy dirt road from the Visitor Center, just under 3,000 meters, to the snowy summit to watch the sunset. It was cold and a bit altitude sick, but the scenery was breathtaking and absolutely worth it! We returned to the Visitor Center that night to see the stars—so many and so bright. Our driver and tour guide, dressed in shorts the entire time, was explaining the magical starry sky to us, but unfortunately, I didn't understand. :) A group of children were singing "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star"—the sky is full of them... They must be from a Chinese tour group.

PS: I took a photo of the starry night sky with my mobile phone:)), you can close your eyes and imagine it~~~

Highly recommended, the view is great when the weather is good

We drove from Kona to the summit of Mauna Kea to watch the sunset and the stars. The starry sky was truly breathtaking and beautiful! It was such a romantic feeling! It's a shame I didn't take any clear photos. I hope to go again next time!

There are two stargazing locations at Mauna Kea: the visitor center at 3,000 meters, which is accessible to all vehicles, and the summit at 4,207 meters. The road from the visitor center to the summit is steep and dirt, so a low-gear four-wheel drive (4L) is required.

Because we had watched the sunset in Maui, this time we went straight to the starry sky.

Mauna Kea is not only great for stargazing, but also for sunsets.

The road was generally easy to drive, and I sped all the way to the base of the mountain. The road up the mountain is narrower and steeper, but it was still relatively easy to drive all the way to the visitor center. The visitor center is at an altitude of approximately 2,800 meters, above most of the clouds, and I already had some altitude sickness. To reach the observatory at over 4,000 meters, you'll have to drive a long, bad road. The staff recommends a four-wheel drive vehicle for the climb and will check if your vehicle is suitable.

Why is Mauna Kea considered the best place in the world for stargazing? Its high altitude means over 300 days of clear skies a year, and the lack of light pollution makes it ideal for astronomical observation. Consequently, several countries around the world have established observatories there. Because the observatories are dedicated to nighttime observations, visitors are generally required to leave the mountain after sunset. The actual stargazing location is the visitor center. Since the visitor center is above most of the clouds, the actual observations are excellent.

Note: The visitor center can be quite cold, so dress warmly. Free hot water is available, and you can buy coffee and instant noodles. To ensure optimal viewing, most lights are turned off after sunset, leaving only a few red lights. The visitor center staff will guide visitors through stargazing, and there are also high-powered telescopes for use (though there will likely be a long line).

Awesome!!! You must rent a 4WD! Otherwise you can only go up to the visitor center. I have never seen such a beautiful starry sky~~

Mauna Kea, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, stands at 4,207.3 meters above sea level, making it the highest peak in the Hawaiian Islands! The summit boasts numerous observatories and is covered in snow in winter!

Mauna Kea is the world's tallest single mountain, at 4,207 meters above sea level. From its base on the ocean floor, it measures over 10,000 meters, making it one of the best stargazing spots in the Northern Hemisphere. There are two locations for stargazing at Mauna Kea: the visitor center at 3,000 meters, which is accessible to all vehicles, and the summit at 4,207 meters. The road from the visitor center to the summit is steep and dirt, so a low-gear four-wheel drive (4L) is required. Weather conditions also determine accessibility. A poster outside the visitor center clarifies the necessity of using a 4L four-wheel drive for the ascent. It explains the advantages of a 4L over a 4H: a lower gear ratio provides more reliable power when ascending the mountain, while also allowing drivers to rely less on the brakes when descending, which can lead to brake failure. The poster also includes photos of vehicles overturning the mountain, reminding drivers to exercise caution.



No matter where you choose to stargaze, you must stop at the visitor center. First, check whether your car is a four-wheel drive and confirm whether the weather and road conditions are suitable for climbing the mountain. Second, to avoid altitude sickness, it is recommended that you stay at the visitor center for 30 minutes to adapt to the altitude before going up. Third, get supplies and repairs at the visitor center, because this is the last place with toilets and food before going up the mountain. You can drink some hot water and go to the toilet to prepare for climbing.



The sunset from the top of the mountain is beautiful, and you can also see Maui's Haleakala volcano. The stargazing at night is also beautiful, but be sure to choose a day with a small moon, otherwise the moon will be too bright and the Milky Way will not be very visible.

I highly recommend visiting Mauna Kea in January! It's winter in Hawaii, so why not try bikini-wearing in the morning and snow-capped mountains in the afternoon? You can also try lying in the snow in a bikini to admire the stars and the moon – the thrill is almost as great as skydiving. Or, you can use your water skis as snowboards and ski on the Big Island after a dip in the ocean. It's all free! After watching the sunset from the summit, you can wait to see the magnificent starry sky. The starry sky at over 4,000 meters above sea level is truly more magnificent than anywhere else in the world. Of course, be sure to dress warmly, and those with severe altitude sickness are recommended to choose a tour group.

I joined a local Japanese tour group called Masashi for $340 USD for two people. The package included warm clothing, hats and gloves, a packed lunch for the hike up the mountain, and refreshments afterward (including a visit to the Plateau Botanical Conservation Area). We also watched the sunset from the summit and observed the stars from around 4,000 meters (near the summit). In the evening, we brought hot tea and biscuits, used telescopes for stargazing, received a brief astrological explanation, and took professional DSLR photography. Hotel pickup and drop-off were also included! No tips were accepted. For more photos, please see my Hawaii travelogue for Day 2.

I won't go into detail about the scenery, but the key is: hit the mountain with a full tank of gas! Go up early! Whether you're leaving from Kona or Hilo, aim for a mid-afternoon departure to arrive before sunset. The key point: the unpaved sections require not only a four-wheel drive, but if you don't have one, rent a powerful vehicle, given the high altitude. For the rest, experienced drivers are recommended...

A must-see place for stargazing, where you can see the Milky Way for more than 300 days a year

1. Location: It's about an hour's drive from Hilo, with a good time to depart around 4:00 AM. The observatory is located halfway up the mountain. To see the sea of clouds, you need to climb to the top. There's a gravel road along the way to the observatory. The journey from the center to the summit takes less than half an hour.

2. Recommended way to play: Start from Hilo and drive all the way to the top of the mountain. In the evening, watch the sunset from the top of the mountain. The sunset time varies depending on the season. Please refer to the official Mauna Kea website for the sunset time. When I went there, it was around 6:00. After watching the sunset, go halfway down the mountain to the stargazing center. At 7:30, the stargazing center staff will start the explanation. It lasts about half an hour until around 8:00. During the explanation, they will introduce various stars and constellations, and use infrared rays to point them out to you. After that, return to Hilo.

3. About car rental: I was initially torn about whether to drive up there myself, worried about 2WD vs. 4WD and the issues with a novice female driver. Although I ultimately opted for a tour group due to my lack of courage, I later regretted not driving on my own. Driving slowly was stress-free. Even on gravel roads, the roads are wide and driving slowly wasn't dangerous at all. However, regarding the car, 4WD is absolutely essential. For steep inclines and poor road conditions, a 4WD is definitely necessary (see the image below for your own evaluation). Of course, if you're only driving to the stargazing center, a 2WD is sufficient.

4. My bittersweet experience with the tour group: There were both foreign and Chinese tours. I figured my mother-in-law couldn't understand English, so I'd better get a Chinese guide. So, I had no choice but to choose the Chinese tour group from Qizhou. The price was 2,800 NTD for two people! The foreign tour was probably a bit cheaper. The so-called tour group consisted of five people, including the driver, in a Kia SUV. The driver was the so-called tour guide. They provided a thin down jacket and a cup of instant noodles. We set off at 4:00 AM and drove to the summit. There was no communication the entire way. Once there, we had free time without any guidance, which was fine. But then we arrived at the stargazing center, less than half an hour into the tour, and they told us we were leaving at 7:30 AM! What? Excuse me?! You didn't give us any explanations from start to finish (where was the promised Chinese guide?!), and now you're not even letting us listen to the free foreign-language guide?! Are you just rushing us out?! We stayed until 8:00 PM anyway. I was trying to hold it in until we got to the hotel, where they told us we had to tip $20 each. What the heck?! Tipping is something Americans give when they're satisfied with the service. If you explain it well and make me happy with the service, I'm happy to tip. The problem is, what kind of crappy service is this, and you're forcing us to tip $20 each? So I called customer service to complain, but the driver got furious. He hung up on us at the hotel entrance and adamantly refused to talk to us. He insisted we had to tip, and finally, he said he wouldn't leave unless we gave him one. What a bloody story, Chinese tour group from Qizhou. I really recommend renting a 4WD and driving your own car.

The first section of Mauna Kea was a smooth paved road, but the rest was completely gravel. We were practically vomiting in our Wrangler, jolting so much we almost vomited... When we reached the summit, the sea of clouds lay beneath our feet! At over 4,000 meters, it was the highest point I'd ever been. My husband started having trouble breathing, and I kept teasing him about how much more oxygen a fat person needs to inhale! The temperature at the summit was incredibly low, and even with pants and a snowsuit on, we were still freezing. As darkness fell, we returned to the Visitor Center for stargazing. There were plenty of telescopes available, and staff would illuminate the sky with flashlights for explanations. The moon, as seen through the telescopes, looked incredibly bumpy.

First, we drove to the visitor center halfway up the mountain, where we had to navigate layers of fog. Then, we drove the four-wheel drive up to the summit, a winding, almost epileptic mountain road covered in cinders. Even the four-wheel drive would slip the first time we turned the steering wheel. But the sunset over the sea of clouds was absolutely stunning.

After descending the mountain, at the visitor center, a guide will teach you how to observe the stars. It's a very interesting explanation. There are also five astronomical telescopes set up for visitors to observe the stars and the moon. I was able to take a photo of the lunar surface that day through the telescope!

Mauna Kea volcano is the world's top choice for stargazing. You can see a sea of stars. This should be a must-visit place on the Big Island.

Last year, I traveled to Hawaii and enjoyed stargazing on the Big Island. The experience was even more breathtaking than I'd imagined, as I watched the twinkling stars in the night sky. We booked the tour through a Chinese website and stayed at a hotel in Hilo. The package included hotel pickup and drop-off, snacks, a guided stargazing session, and telescope viewing. We finished our viewing around 10 p.m. It was a truly wonderful experience. Stargazing on the Big Island of Hawaii: ***?u=148444. The price was better than other options, and the customer service was very friendly. If you're interested, check it out.

It was very foggy that day and you need an off-road vehicle to reach the top. I had a slight altitude sickness.

There is a saying about Mauna Kea that it is the highest mountain in the world, that is, the height from the underwater foot of the mountain to the summit is 10,000 meters, which is higher than Mount Everest.

The most special thing about Mauna Kea is that it is a paradise for astronomers around the world. The top of the mountain is located above the inversion layer, and there are more than 300 clear nights every year.

Due to the excellent air quality and the sparse population of the Big Island, there is almost no man-made pollution, making it very suitable for astronomical observation.

Therefore, all the world's top astronomical research institutions have set up telescopes here. There are currently 13 astronomical telescopes on the top of the mountain.

From here, you can see over 95% of the stars visible from Earth, including various constellations, the Milky Way, Saturn, Venus, Jupiter, and the North Star. This was the first time I could see the Big Dipper with the naked eye. It was so beautiful, so stunning it made your hair stand on end, and then you were moved after the shock.

Known as the world's best stargazing spot, it's packed with astronomy enthusiasts at night. The sea of clouds at the summit is breathtaking, creating a sci-fi feel alongside the observatory. A four-wheel drive vehicle is required to ascend the mountain, and the changing landscape along the way is truly remarkable. The summit is high, so altitude sickness is a possibility, so bring plenty of clothing and scarves. You can rest at the visitor center before reaching the summit.

When you come to the Big Island of Hawaii, Mauna Kea volcano is a must-see attraction, as it has the most beautiful starry sky in the world.



Here are a few tips. First, you must have a four-wheel drive vehicle. If you want to reach the summit, there is a section of unpaved road that is very steep and slippery, not very easy to drive, and it is best not to exceed 20 miles per hour (32 kilometers per hour). Second, bring thick clothes, especially winter clothes, because even the visitor center is only about 10 degrees Celsius. Even when we went to the summit at the end of September, it was only 4-5 degrees Celsius, which was still very cold. Third, the oxygen in the plateau is relatively thin, so don't exercise too vigorously, otherwise you will easily get altitude sickness. If you have altitude sickness, it is best to stop and let your body adapt before continuing to exercise. Fourth, it is best to bring a thermos with some hot water. It will be much more comfortable to have some hot water after dark. Fifth, don't take risks. You must go down the mountain before dark. Stargazing is at the visitor center. The summit observatory needs to eliminate any light pollution at night. The visitor center is also above the clouds, and there is no difference from stargazing at the summit.



If you don't want to drive, there are actually many stargazing tours. There are many local tour groups that take their members to the top of the mountain to see the observatory...



But I personally prefer the feeling of driving myself. I heard there's a hiking route to the summit, which is even more interesting. We're going to give it a try next time. I actually saw some people making the hike this time, and I really admire them!



The land on Mauna Kea is this dark red rocky soil, which is said to be very similar to the surface of Mars. NASA tested the Mars rover here... I recently watched "The Martian". Although the movie is not very good, the Mars in the movie is really beautiful, and the colors are really similar to here... I felt like I was in outer space on Mauna Kea...

Be sure to wear a cotton jacket, it's too cold to go at night, but nature is really magical and wonderful

The most memorable and most recommended attraction on the Big Island of Hawaii. Instead of joining a stargazing tour, we rented a Wrangler and drove up there by ourselves. We started from Hilo and drove up the mountain along the saddle road. It was cloudy at first, but it became clearer as the altitude increased. When we reached the visitor center at 2,800 meters, the sky was azure and the sun was dazzling. It felt very cool when we opened the car door. The road before the visitor center was easy to drive, but in the last half hour to the top of the mountain, it turned into a sand and concrete road, which is a bit of a test of driving skills, but as long as you are brave and careful, it is completely okay! Because when you reach the top of the mountain, you will find that the bumpy road is very worthwhile!! However, the most exciting part is going down the mountain. Because there are no street lights and because the top of the mountain is above the clouds, you will pass through the clouds when going down the mountain, which means it will feel foggy and the visibility is really less than 5m. But again, be brave and careful.

Suggestions: 1. Be sure to bring enough clothes, especially down jackets, otherwise it will be very cold on the top of the mountain and you can only hide in the car to take pictures

2. You can rent a more advanced full-time four-wheel drive vehicle. Although the Wrangler has excellent off-road performance, it requires manual adjustment of the four-wheel drive to go up and down the mountain. People who are not familiar with the performance of the vehicle may cause damage to the vehicle.

3. If you are not confident in your driving skills, it is better to find a tour group so that you can watch the sunset and stars comfortably.

4. You can stay at the visitor center for a while to prevent altitude sickness and take a look at the introduction of the visitor center.

In the afternoon, I headed to Mouna Kea for stargazing. This was the one I'd researched most extensively for any Hawaiian travel guide. I was looking forward to gazing up at the sky at the world's most beautiful stargazing spot, reaching out to touch the dreamlike, star-filled sky... But my much-anticipated stargazing trip wasn't quite what I'd hoped for. The wind gusted up to 60 miles per hour that day, and a large warning sign was erected at the intersection leading from the service center to the observatory, forbidding further access. I grabbed some hot tea, hot chocolate, and energy bars and waited for nightfall. In the evening, many astronomy enthusiasts and volunteers came to offer free star tours. They used giant telescopes and laser pointers to guide visitors through the stars.

Speaking of which, I do have high altitude reactions on Mouna Kea. I feel like my brain is lacking oxygen and my thinking ability is insufficient.

It was my first time at such a high altitude. After a quick rest at the visitor center, I drove straight to the top. This section of road was also unpaved, but it was relatively smooth compared to the previous off-road section. However, driving at night would have been quite scary because there were no lights...

After reaching the top of the mountain, I hadn't noticed it in the car until I stepped out. The moment I stepped out of the car, I could feel the thin air. I stood outside for a few minutes and then felt sleepy, so I went back to the car to rest. Another person was still running up and down to take pictures of the sunset, and then came back to the car breathlessly to rest.

Finally, we just watched the sun go down quietly, the color of the sky changed again and again, and we felt very relaxed.

We began driving out of Volcanoes National Park, heading to our next stop, Mauna Kea, for stargazing. It was a long journey. We navigated to the Mauna Kea Visitor Center, a two-and-a-half-hour drive. Arriving at the center, Grandpa was thrilled. We parked the car, and he quickly went down and was back in a flash. It was incredibly cold, around zero degrees Celsius, and the wind was strong. Even with my thick jacket and a few photos, I felt like I was freezing. Grandma and Yanyan also geared up and went out to observe the sky. There were so many stars here. It's said that all the constellations in the Southern Hemisphere can be seen from here. While I was looking at the stars, I spotted the Moon. It was a shame she came out so early today. The saying "a bright moon brings few stars" was truly authentic this time. While it was fine to see with the naked eye, I couldn't capture the Milky Way because the Moon was so bright. Yanyan looked up, feasting her eyes, her little eyes unable to get enough, muttering, "It's so beautiful, a sky full of stars, so bright!" There were many people at the visitor center, so we probably had to wait until late at night, between moonset and sunrise, to see the Milky Way. We were ready to return. If I come here again next time, I will arrange a day to appreciate Mauna Kea from sunset to the starry sky. On our way down the mountain, my grandmother said that when they were young, they could see stars every day. There were not so many tall buildings back then. You could see many stars in the sky above Beijing. I remember that we could vaguely see stars when we were young. It seems that Yanyan and her generation were born without the blue sky, white clouds and starry sky. This was Yanyan's first time seeing the real starry sky.

Mauna Kea is susceptible to high winds and closures in the spring.

When I reached the top of the mountain, I found that it was not yet 12 o'clock. I was unhappy. I came here to see the sunset. What should I do with five or six hours left?



I took out my itinerary plan. There were parks and lakes nearby, all very fancy. Because I was so disappointed by yesterday, I had no expectations for this park at all. Since I had plenty of time, I decided to just give it a try.



It's the same, harder to translate sign, which roughly means: "Stay away from me. You can go in if you want, but be civilized and polite. Don't swim, row boats, or build blocks in it."

If you think the Big Island is not beautiful enough, I think you must have not seen the sea of clouds in Mauna Kea.

At the visitor center, there's free hot water and a microwave. There's also a small shop nearby that sells souvenirs, clothing, hats, gloves, chocolate, and cocoa milk. At higher altitudes, you can enjoy some chocolate for energy. Because of the altitude, you're required to stop at the visitor center to acclimate before ascending.

Not all stargazing tours reach the summit; most simply set up telescopes near the tourist information center. So, if you want to see the sunset and stars from the summit, be sure to specify this when you sign up. Some tours include dinner and warm clothing, so if you don't want to pack extra layers, these are a good option. Even during the day, the sun-shaded area at the summit can be incredibly cold, making it unbearable.

Before the sun completely set, we were still able to see the sea of clouds that was enough to shock us. This gave me one less regret in my life. It was more than spectacular and beautiful, I only regretted that I was at a loss for words.

Standing on the hillside watching the sunset, with your feet on the brown volcanic soil, the view is infinitely broad and you will feel as if you are outside the earth.

After it gets completely dark, the whole sky is like a black curtain, dotted with countless sparkling diamonds and inlaid with ribbon-like Milky Way. Wow, it's so beautiful.

This is the place closest to the surface of the moon, with an altitude of 4205 meters. We originally wanted to go to a higher place, but my husband thought safety first, so we turned back early. Next time we go there, we must go stargazing.

We arrived at the visitor center at noon. Hot water, a microwave, and even paper cups and spoons were provided. At 2,800 meters above sea level, the center had already submerged some of the clouds, so we donned our sweaters and jackets early. Mauna Kea was incredibly cold and windy, so if you're not in good shape, don't wear anything other than short sleeves. We watched a video explaining Mauna Kea's history, present, and future, ate some instant noodles, and continued our journey to the summit.

A good place to watch the sunset and the stars, but be aware that the altitude is relatively high and some people may not be able to adapt

On the way, I sat in the passenger seat and didn't feel any ups and downs. I only saw the clouds getting lower and lower, closer to the ground. My husband said he could feel the pressure of the uphill climb as he kept pressing the accelerator. But don't worry, our two-wheel drive Chevrolet made it to the visitor center smoothly.

After passing through the clouds, the roadside scenery began to become desolate, with traces of lava everywhere.

This is the highest point in Hawaii, at 4,205 meters above sea level. You have to drive all the way up to the visitor center. The road is incredibly difficult, so a four-wheel drive is recommended, as it's too dangerous. If you're not a good driver, I also recommend not driving on your own. There's a long stretch of gravel with no asphalt, and the road is bordered by cliffs, with no shelter. The road is also very winding, but the scenery along the way is breathtaking. After passing the stargazing area, we drove up the mountain to the summit, where we were above the clouds for the first time...

It started raining on the way up the mountain, and the clouds were thick. I worried I wouldn't be able to see the sunset or the stars. But my worries turned out to be unnecessary. At over 4,000 meters, you're no joke. The clouds are literally just below your feet. It takes about an hour and a half from Hilo to the Mauna Kea Visitor Center, and about half an hour from the visitor center to the summit. Beyond the visitor center is an 8-kilometer stretch of unpaved road. Don't worry, unpaved roads there are easier to navigate than those in China. Just be careful with your speed. Some sections have steep inclines, so drive slowly. With the long traffic jam, we worried it would be sunset by the time we reached the summit, so we couldn't help but overtake several minibuses. From Hilo to Mauna Kea, it's best to leave around 3:30 PM to avoid rush hour and have more time.

 

Don't underestimate the coldness in the mountains. Everyone dresses like an Eskimo. Be sure to wear a big down jacket, scarf, hat, and gloves, otherwise you can only envy the Eskimos.

Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano on the Big Island, reaching a peak of 4,207 meters. Its summit, perched high above the clouds, offers an excellent vantage point for astronomical observation. The Keck Telescope, the world's largest telescope (10 meters in diameter and weighing 270 tons), is located atop the mountain. It's also an ideal spot for photographing sunsets and the stars. Due to its high altitude, down jackets, scarves, and gloves are essential for the summit. The Mauna Kea Visitor Center is located midway up the mountain at an elevation of 2,804 meters. From there, only four-wheel drive vehicles are allowed on the mountain trail.

Mauna Kea is one of the best stargazing spots in the world. In order to ensure the quality of stargazing, there are no lights in the scenic area. It is dark everywhere, and the wild mountains and ridges are a bit scary. It takes at least an hour to climb the mountain from the scenic area below, and it is said that the road is not easy to drive. Coupled with the altitude sickness at 4,000 meters, it is unlikely that we would make a sudden decision to go up the mountain without any preparation. To watch the stars at the top, many people go up the mountain during the day and bring thick clothes.

Definitely worth a visit. I've never seen so many stars!

After parking near the visitor center, we eagerly donned our jackets and thick socks. Despite our preparedness, we were still frozen the moment we opened the car door. In just an hour and a few dozen kilometers, the temperature dropped 40 degrees Fahrenheit. From midsummer to late autumn, it's incredible. When visiting Tianjin, be sure to dress for late autumn temperatures. Remember this.

There is a hill opposite the visitor center. The sun sets behind the hill, so many tourists climb up the hill to watch the sunset over the sea of clouds. We arrived late and didn't have time to go up the mountain. We should have left at least 40 minutes earlier. If we had left as planned, it would have been just right. Fortunately, we were not the last one to arrive. We still saw the stunning sea of clouds before the sun completely set. This is one less regret in my life. It is more than spectacular and beautiful. I only regret that I am at a loss for words.

After sunset, a high-powered telescope is set up outside the visitor center. Every night after dark, there are astronomy presentations, instruction on stargazing, and telescopes available for free. To minimize obstruction to stargazing, the visitor center is dimly lit with red lights. Inside, videos show information about the observatory and various telescopes. Staff members say that it won't be completely dark until around 7:30 PM, which is when stargazing is most enjoyable. As the night deepened and the cold grew outside, the visitor center offered little to eat, just cold sandwiches and some chocolate. It's recommended to bring food with you up the mountain. Free hot water is available outside, so bring your own instant noodles for a warm soak. The center also sells packaged hot chocolate, coffee, and milk tea. We bought a bag of hot chocolate for $1, which came with a disposable cup and was a delightful addition to warm our cold hands and relieve hunger.

When it's still light, you can see a star rising in the sky. It must be the North Star, very bright. When it gets dark, the entire sky is like a black curtain, dotted with countless sparkling diamonds and studded with ribbons of the Milky Way. "Wow, so beautiful," is the phrase I say most often. Thinking of the words I saw earlier, I also want to say thank you for accompanying me here, allowing us to see this unforgettable starry sky together.

When you go to the volcano to watch the sunrise, you must wear thick cotton clothes because the temperature on the mountain is very low and super cold.

Mauna Kea, at 4,207 meters above sea level, is the best vantage point for stargazing in the Northern Hemisphere. With minimal light pollution, you can see every observable star in the Northern Hemisphere. I was particularly looking forward to witnessing a sky filled with stars from such a high peak and experiencing such a breathtaking, almost tear-jerking spectacle.

The scenery along the way to Mauna Kea is also not to be missed

Mauna Kea, the "White Mountain," must be even more beautiful when covered in snow. The breathtaking beauty of watching the sunset here is indescribable.

Mauna Kea is the top-rated Big Island attraction on TripAdvisor, earning it the highest praise. When I reached the summit, the Martian-like scenery was truly breathtaking. Last winter, I visited Haleakala, the Sun House in Maui, and it was completely shrouded in mist. I wonder if the scenery was similarly stunning?

Meaning "White Mountain" in Hawaiian, AUNA KEA is one of the five volcanoes that form the island of Hawaii. Its summit is covered in snow in winter, making it ideal for skiing. The summit stands at 4,207 meters above sea level, and the elevation from the underwater base to the summit is 10,203 meters. The mountain boasts 13 astronomical observatories. Mauna Kea's summit is recognized as one of the best astronomical observatory sites in the world, situated above 40% of the atmosphere and 90% of the water vapor, resulting in exceptionally clear starry views. Furthermore, the mountain boasts 300 clear nights annually, and at a low latitude of 20 degrees north, it offers views of nearly the entire northern and southern hemisphere skies.

If you're planning to climb Mauna Kea to see the most stunning sunsets and stars, I recommend joining a local stargazing tour. The route is quite difficult to navigate. Not all stargazing tours ascend to the summit; most simply set up telescopes near the tourist information center. So, if you want to see the sunset and stars from the summit, be sure to specify this when you sign up. Some tours include dinner and warm clothing, so if you don't want to pack extra layers, these are a good option. Even during the day, it's incredibly cold in the shade, out of the sun, and unbearable.

Mauna Kea is a volcanic mountain where you can enjoy the most spectacular sunset on Earth. Standing on the hillside, watching the sunset, with your feet on the brown volcanic soil, the view is infinite and you will feel as if you are outside the earth.

Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii, at 4,205 meters above sea level. Including the portion below sea level, its total height exceeds 10,000 meters, taller than Mount Everest. In winter, snow blankets the summit, giving it its name. Mauna Kea means White Mountain in Hawaiian. I visited in late November, and it hadn't snowed yet. The dry climate, over 300 clear nights annually, and the absence of light pollution make it one of the world's best astronomical observation sites.

The temperature at the top of the mountain was near freezing, and the wind was strong. The staff explained each observatory, and the tourists were shivering with cold. Although we had thick coats on, it was clearly not enough... I regretted not bringing two pairs of thick pants.

A four-wheel drive is required to reach Mauna Kea's summit. After the visitor center at 2,800 meters, there's a five-mile stretch of unpaved gravel road. While it's certainly unpaved, it's not steep and wide, so driving with a four-wheel drive isn't dangerous. After five miles, the road returns to a smooth asphalt, making driving much faster. A steady drizzle fell as we ascended, and I worried to my husband, "With such thick clouds, will we miss the starry sky tonight?" But as we walked through the mist, the clouds suddenly parted, revealing a crystal-clear blue sky. Looking back, we saw a rolling sea of clouds behind us. Although the sky was still bright, the red glow of sunset had already appeared on the horizon. We must have been a little too late; the sun had already set behind the clouds. Regardless, we rushed to the summit. At the end of the road, there were already many cars and tourists. My husband grabbed his camera and jumped out of the car like a madman. I slowly put on my woolen hat and gloves before heading out. The air outside was clear and cold, but thankfully there was no wind. The official website reminds everyone to be careful not to make sudden movements at such a high altitude, not to run or jump, to breathe properly, and to descend quickly if they felt persistently unwell. I was very careful throughout, and if I dropped something, I wouldn't suddenly bend down to pick it up, so I felt fine. My husband seemed fine as he kept taking pictures with his camera, except for a slight feeling of discomfort in his head.

After dark, the tourists gradually left the mountain, leaving only my husband and I to gaze at the stars. Before coming to Hawaii, he'd gotten addicted to photographing the Milky Way from the Oregon coastline. He'd heard Mauna Kea's summit boasts "the darkest and purest night skies on Earth" (zero light pollution and 40% less air density than at sea level), so he was eager to show off his skills. But then, to our dismay, a full moon slowly rose, its light shimmering brightly in the clear, thin air, and the Milky Way, nowhere to be seen. So sad...

Maunakea is a dormant volcano, having not erupted in 4,000 years. Measured from the seafloor, it reaches a staggering 33,000 feet, higher than the Himalayas. Above sea level, it reaches 13,796 feet, or 4,205 meters. Its high altitude, clean air, and lack of artificial light pollution attract astronomers from around the world to observe and study the area. The Maunakea Observatory at its summit houses two of the world's largest optical and infrared telescopes. A four-wheel drive vehicle is required to reach the summit, and the observatory is not open to the public.

I was really looking forward to Monaco, but unfortunately, goddess Pele didn't give me face this time: the sunset at Monaco was beautiful, but it was too late to go up to the observatory; the stars at Monaco were also beautiful, but it was too foggy to see. On the way to Monaco, Pele showed me only Silent Hill, Silent Hill, Silent Hill, and Silent Hill.

My first trip was the Stargazing Tour, which involves an evening stargazing trip from Mauna Kea. Mauna Kea, the island's highest peak, stands at 4,207 meters and is the best vantage point for stargazing in the Northern Hemisphere, offering views of all the observable stars. This tour was also available on China-TravelNote, but I booked it myself through a local Chinese travel agency on the Big Island. Stargazing tours generally come in two varieties: summit and sunset, and non-summit. The mountain road to the summit is difficult, so a vehicle is required. I booked the one that included the summit and sunset. It cost $400 USD for two people, a BMW 4WD car, a simple dinner, and a Chinese-speaking guide (tips not included). The Stargazing Tour typically begins in the evening and ends at 10 PM. If you choose the sunset option, it departs around 3 PM. Since the mountain is located in the center of the island, the drive from either Kona or Hilo is about an hour and a half. Along the way, you can often see large expanses of cooled lava along the road.

Personally, I think this "stargazing tour" is worth the trip. The instantaneous transition from a tropical island to a cold, desolate mountain was a fascinating experience. While the night sky was the biggest draw, the most impressive thing for me was the vast sea of clouds. Even though I've seen seas of clouds in many mountainous areas across China, to see one on this scale, year-round, is truly rare. I took many photos, but my camera lens was too narrow to capture its magnificence.

Regarding Mauna Kea, I saw a quote online: "Thank you for showing me the stars, the most star-filled place in the world." It really touched my heart. At 4,200 meters above sea level, it's home to several observatories. Stargazing here is a must.

Mauna Kea is located roughly in the north-central part of the Big Island. Specifically, Hawaii Highway 200, between Hilo and the Kohala Coast, is a 55-mile saddle road. Mauna Kea stands 32,796 feet tall, a combination of 13,796 feet above sea level and 19,000 feet below sea level to the ocean floor. This makes it taller than any other mountain in the world. Mauna Kea means "White Mountain" because its summit is covered in snow year-round. Experienced skiers choose to visit in February and March. (We didn't see any snow when we reached the summit.) Mauna Kea hasn't erupted in 3,500 years. During the Ice Age 15,000 years ago, glaciers sealed the summit in ice and snow, creating the permafrost that still exists today. Melting ice and snow form rivers that flow into Lake Waio.

Next we went to Mauna Kea. It's said to be a volcano on the equator that has snow even in winter. Unfortunately, we went in October, and it didn't snow until December, not until February of the following year. After looking up some information, I found out that the entire mountain is 32,000 feet from base to top, or 9,753 meters, and is considered the highest mountain in the world. It's a little confusing, isn't Mount Everest the highest mountain? Confused though, the scenery was pretty good. Let's take a look at the scenery along the way.

We set off for Mauna Kea at 2pm in the afternoon. We wanted to avoid the sun setting as we were climbing up the mountain, as it would be very glaring and affect the driver's driving.