Pu'u Hau Kea Loop via Mauna Kea Access Road and Mauna Kea-Humu'ula Trail(edit)

Overview

This trek could take ten to twelve hours so get an early start. Make sure that you gear up appropriately. The top of Mauna Kea has the same conditions as other tall mountain peaks and should be planned for similarly. Because of the lowered levels of atmospheric protection, gearing up on higher-UV protection sunscreen is highly recommended – as is packing extra water, sturdy hiking boots, and emergency gear. There are no services on the summit, so planning ahead and preparing for the worst with first aid, extra rations, and cold weather gear is a must

This hike begins and finishes at the visitor center at '9,000 elevation. It follows the Mauna Kea Summit Trail (Humu’ula Trail) and then descend on the 4x4 road which parallels the trail.

Mauna Kea Summit Trail
The Mauna Kea Summit trail is a 12 mile round trip that ascends 4,500 feet beginning at the Visitor Center (13.4 miles if you add in the lake side trail and the summit hill loop at the very top). This is a very challenging hike and you must take the altitude, weather, and mountain conditions into account before setting out. You’ll also want to start out early in the day so you can be off the mountain before dark. The hike typically takes 7-8 hours for someone who is in fit physical condition.

Fill out a form at the Visitor Center and leave it in the drop box before you leave, then check in when you get back so they know you are okay. From there, you’ll walk a short stretch up the road and head down the two lane trail to the left for about a quarter mile.

From the visitor center, you will see a trail heading up hill on the left which is the Humu’ula Trail. Following this trail will take you past historic sites, incredible cinder cone landscapes, and the trailhead to Lake Waiau. Take a side jaunt to see the lake (totally worth it) then continue on to intersect with the road. The first two miles are very steep and the entire trail is rough terrain with loose rock so hiking poles are a real plus for this hike.

Follow the vehicles on the road to return to the starting point.