Outdoor
Nature
Featured
Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station
World-class stargazing at 9200 feet with free evening telescope programs
Ages
5–18+
Cost
Free
Duration
~3hrs
Difficulty
Easy
Setting
Outdoor
The visitor station at 9200 feet on Mauna Kea offers free stargazing programs with telescopes every evening and sits above the cloud line for some of the best stargazing in the world. The evening program is family-friendly and guides point out planets, galaxies, and constellations through multiple telescopes. The Milky Way from here is so vivid it does not look real. The drive up passes through multiple climate zones from tropical to subarctic which fascinates kids. Children under 13 should not go to the summit (13796 feet) due to altitude.
Pricing
Free program. 4WD required for summit. Station accessible by regular car.
Common Questions
- How much does Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station cost?
- Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station is free to visit. Free program. 4WD required for summit. Station accessible by regular car.
- What ages is Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station good for?
- Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station is best for kids ages 5 to 18+.
- Is Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station stroller friendly?
- No, Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station is not considered stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station.
- How hard is Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station?
- The difficulty level is easy. Plan for about 3 hours.
- Is Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station free?
- Yes, Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station is free!
- What should I bring to Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station?
- Very warm layers (cold at elevation), blankets, hot drinks, flashlight with red filter
- How long does Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station take?
- Most families spend about 3 hours at Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station.
- When is the best time to visit Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station?
- Evening for stargazing programs. Check schedule online.
- Is there parking at Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station?
- Parking at the visitor station. Arrive early for evening programs.
Plan Your Visit
Mauna Kea Access Rd, Hilo, HI 96720