マウナロア周辺のおすすめ交通量の少ないサイクリングルート

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!

A superb experience. The highest point should not be climbed out of respect for the local religions.

Nechung Dorje Drayang Ling is a Tibetan Buddhist Temple built in 1902! This is not the original location as it was move in 1925 after it suffered some flood damage. Guest rooms are available for a relaxing getaway or the entire Guesthouse is available for rent.

Mauna Loa Road is a scenic route that winds its way up to the Mauna Loa Lookout. The road is exposed most of the way up as you make your way through the high elevation vegetation. Occasionally the forest opens up and you can see the lava flows.

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.

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.

Two Step Beach is a lava rock shore, but there is some sand a little further up the beach. Ideally you could bring a yoga mat to lay under your towel for a little more comfort. There are shallow saltwater pools to lay in, but watch out for critters!

Kealakekua Bay is a Marine Life Conservation area that offers snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking. The bay is filled with coral and schools of tropical fish. Occasionally you can see spinner dolphins swimming in the clear blue waters of the bay. If you want to stay dry, there is a picnic area to relax and spectate from.