The best cycling routes in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve
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Touring cycling in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve features routes traversing volcanic landscapes and high-altitude terrain on the slopes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. The region is characterized by significant elevation gains, offering challenging rides through diverse environments. These routes often lead through forested areas before opening up to expansive views of the surrounding Big Island scenery. The area provides a demanding experience for experienced touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve
- The most popular touring…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
3
riders
75.5km
05:27
1,710m
1,710m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
48.1km
04:41
2,180m
2,180m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
5
riders
57.4km
04:23
1,410m
1,410m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
12.6km
00:50
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve
Tips from the Community
Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and challenging experiences one can have on a bicycle and in the middle of the ocean! Setting off early in the morning from the quiet beach to reach the 4,207-meter summit of Mauna Kea is an immense satisfaction. The first part, from the city of Hilo up to a few kilometers before the Visitor Center at 2,700 meters, is relatively easy but also a bit monotonous. However, about a kilometer after taking the Mauna Kea Access Road, the gradient starts to rise steeply, often reaching double digits. Once you arrive at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station, after the mandatory stop at the Ranger Checkpoint, you can enjoy a well-deserved break and stock up on water before facing the toughest section of the entire climb. Immediately after the VIS begins a long stretch of unpaved road with sharp gradients and a surface that often offers little grip, putting even the strongest legs to the test. After this grueling segment, the ascent continues on asphalt again, but the slopes remain steep and the altitude begins to take its toll, making the final conquest of the summit truly a feat within a feat. Once you reach the long-awaited summit sign, you can finally take a deep breath of relief and admire—with a huge smile—the breathtaking view that awaits you. I traveled 31 hours to conquer this gem, and every bit of effort was more than worth it!
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Hilo Coffee Mill has a roasting building and retail sales facility. You can take a tour of the full facility which takes around 1.5 hours (or they offer a 20 minute mini-tour)! The mill encourages you to bring kids and if you are here on Saturday, there is a small farmers market with produce, food, and hard goods.
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This marks the start of Mauna Kea! From here you can enjoy the views of the absolutely gargantuan mountain overhead. By this point whether you rode from Hilo or the west coast, you've already done enough climbing to put most cyclists to shame. You can give yourself a pat on the back and enjoy the long descent back into town, or drop a gear and head up the mountain!
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Located on the north flank of Mauna Loa Volcano, this observatory is 11,135 feet above sea level (almost 3,000 feet lower than neighboring Mauna Kea). This research facility has been used since the 1950's and provides panoramic views of all the surrounding volcanic land. You'd think the buildings would have to pump in oxygen to ensure the 8 staff that operate the facility are not oxygen deprived.
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Mauna Kea is a unworldly climb that is on the bucketlist of many cyclists and self-proclaimed explorers. Many people ride from Hilo, but you can also park at the base of the mountain to shave off a bit of the filler miles. The mid section of the climb is gravel which is more than doable on a road bike, although many people utilize gravel bikes since you also typically have lower gearing. With the summit being at just under 14,000 feet, please ensure you do your research and preperation. Going from sealevel to 14k feet can get a lot of people in trouble.
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The sunset on Mauna Kea is an unforgettable experience! From the Onizuka Visitor Center (2800 m) there is a hiking trail past Lake Waiau to the summit area. We didn't walk it, but it is certainly very strenuous (1400 m elevation gain, steep, loose ground). If you want to enjoy the sunset, you have to drive to the summit anyway. After the visitor center the road is unpaved for a long stretch, very steep, with loose ground and sharp bends (4WD required as mentioned above). With the car you overcome the height much faster than it is good. You should therefore take a break of at least 30 minutes at the Visitor Center. 60 minutes is better (there are enough opportunities for small hikes anyway). The best option for us was to first visit the Pu'u Huluhulu (2000 m) and then the Mauna Loa Observatory (approx. 3350 m) and only then drive to Mauna Kea.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy touring cycling routes for beginners in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve?
The Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve is known for its challenging terrain, featuring significant elevation gains on the slopes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Most routes are considered difficult and best suited for experienced touring cyclists. However, the Hilo Coffee Mill via Kurtistown loop offers a moderate option, providing a less strenuous experience compared to the high-altitude climbs.
What is the typical difficulty level of touring cycling routes in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve?
Touring cycling in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve is predominantly challenging, characterized by substantial elevation gains and high-altitude terrain. The routes traverse volcanic landscapes, demanding a good level of fitness and experience. For example, routes like Mauna Kea Base via Hilo involve significant climbs towards the base of the mountain.
How long do touring cycling routes typically take in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve?
The duration of touring cycling routes varies depending on the specific trail and your pace, but given the challenging terrain, they can be quite long. For instance, the Mauna Loa Observatory from Puʻu Huluhulu — Hawai‘i route, which is 35.7 miles (57.4 km), typically takes around 4 hours 22 minutes to complete. Other routes can be longer or shorter, but most involve sustained effort.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve?
Yes, there are circular routes available for touring cyclists. The Hilo Coffee Mill via Kurtistown loop is an example of a circular route, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. While many routes are out-and-back to high-altitude observatories, some offer the convenience of a loop.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve?
The Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve, being on the Big Island of Hawai‘i, experiences relatively consistent temperatures year-round at lower elevations. However, at higher altitudes, weather can change rapidly. The dry season, generally from April to October, might offer more stable conditions for the challenging high-altitude climbs. Always check the specific weather forecast for the mountain slopes before you go.
What kind of weather conditions should I expect when touring cycling in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve?
Weather conditions in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve can vary significantly with elevation. While lower areas might be warm and humid, the high-altitude routes on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa can be cold, windy, and experience sudden changes, including rain or even snow at the very highest elevations. Always be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential precipitation, especially when ascending.
What should I bring for a touring cycling trip in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve?
Given the challenging terrain and variable weather, it's essential to be well-prepared. Bring plenty of water, high-energy snacks, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), and layers of clothing to adapt to changing temperatures. A repair kit, spare tubes, and a first-aid kit are also highly recommended. For high-altitude routes, consider warmer gear even if starting in mild conditions.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots along the touring cycling routes?
Absolutely. The touring cycling routes in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve offer expansive views, particularly as you ascend the slopes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Routes like Mauna Kea summit from Puʻu Huluhulu provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding Big Island scenery and the unique volcanic landscape, making the challenging climbs incredibly rewarding.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while touring cycling in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve?
The Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve is part of a diverse ecosystem. While large mammals are rare, you might encounter various native and introduced bird species, including the ʻApapane and Hawaiʻi ʻAmakihi. Keep an eye out for endemic insects and unique plant life adapted to the volcanic environment. Always observe wildlife from a respectful distance.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about touring cycling in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique challenge of cycling on volcanic slopes, the breathtaking high-altitude views, and the sense of accomplishment from tackling significant climbs. The remote and expansive landscapes offer a truly unique touring experience.
Are there any cafes or places to refuel near the touring cycling routes?
While the high-altitude routes themselves are quite remote with limited services, you can find options closer to the towns or at the start/end points of some routes. For example, the Hilo Coffee Mill via Kurtistown loop suggests a destination where you can find refreshments. It's always advisable to carry sufficient supplies for the longer, more isolated rides.
How many touring cycling routes are available in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve?
There are several touring cycling routes available in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve, offering diverse experiences across its volcanic landscapes. Komoot currently features 4 distinct touring cycling routes in the area, ranging from challenging ascents to moderate loops.
Most popular routes in Upper Waiākea Forest Reserve
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