Mauna Kea Observatories
Mauna Kea Observatories
A surreal vision, these observatories atop a 14,000-foot high mountain take brave guests from sea level to the peak of altitude sickness susceptibility in just a couple of hours by 4WD vehicle.
With 40% less oxygen at this height, only adults in good health are encouraged to make the trip. While the Visitor Information Station is open every day of the year for public usage of the telescopes, a bookstore, snacks, interpretive guides, and Mauna Kea rangers, the danger lies with the summit.
Each Saturday and Sunday if the weather is not treacherous, tours are permitted by caravan, or hiking is available at your own risk. A round trip hike takes a minimum of 10 hours with no public transportation in the wilderness. For a trip of otherworldly proportions, your group may consider tempting the fate of the mountain.
