Pu‘ukalepeamoa Lookout loop from Mauna Kea Visitor Parking
Pu‘ukalepeamoa Lookout loop from Mauna Kea Visitor Parking
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Pu‘ukalepeamoa Lookout loop from Mauna Kea Visitor Parking
01:26
4.48km
180m
Hiking
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
16 m
Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
812 m
Pu‘ukalepeamoa Lookout
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
4.17 km
Maunakea Visitor Information Station
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
4.48 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.89 km
1.13 km
363 m
105 m
Surfaces
2.89 km
1.14 km
409 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,900 m)
Lowest point (2,750 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Wednesday 1 July
19°C
10°C
49 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an accessible high-altitude experience with incredible views on Mauna Kea, the Pu‘ukalepeamoa Lookout loop from Mauna Kea Visitor Parking is an excellent choice. This easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hiking route, with 606 feet (185 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete, making it a perfect short, rewarding hike for acclimatization or sunset viewing.
What to expect on Pu‘ukalepeamoa Lookout loop from Mauna Kea Visitor Parking
This trail offers a journey through dramatic volcanic landscapes, starting right from the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station. You'll traverse well-worn dirt paths and rocky areas, climbing steadily to the cinder cone's summit. From the Pu‘ukalepeamoa Lookout, you'll be treated to expansive, panoramic views across the island, including clear sightlines to Mauna Loa and the Saddle Road region. The path can be uneven in spots, so good shoes are a must, but the climb is not hard, making it suitable for most fitness levels, especially if you're taking it easy to adjust to the altitude.
Planning your visit
The Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station is at 9,200 feet (2,804 metres), so acclimatization is highly recommended before you start hiking. While the trail is easy, the high altitude can still affect you. Be prepared for rapidly changing and extreme weather conditions, including lower temperatures, by bringing warm layers, sturdy shoes, and adequate water and snacks. Parking is available at the Visitor Information Station, which serves as the trailhead for this popular route.
Trail details
- Distance: 2.8 miles (4.5 km)
- Elevation gain: 606 feet (185 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 26 minutes
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