We didn't make it to the top (you need 4WD), just the visitors center, but the stargazing was great from the visitors center, totally worth it. Get there a little early before parking really fills up…Full review by MattIowa
Wondering about the drive back down from Mauna Kea Visitor Center to Waimea after dark. Is visibility OK? Road in decent condition? Thanks for any info!
A:
Yes. It is safe since roads are decent. Few times, here and there, you may have to put high beam. But otherwise not a challenging drive. ( btw we left around 9PM from observatory)
You manage to go to observatory (13,000 feet) with 2WD?!
A:
No, only able to access the visitor centre with 2WD. The CCTV in the visitor centre shows you the conditions at the summit. Unfortunately it was cloudy (foggy) at the summit and …
No, only able to access the visitor centre with 2WD. The CCTV in the visitor centre shows you the conditions at the summit. Unfortunately it was cloudy (foggy) at the summit and there would have been little point to go farther. Great trip anyway! Next visit in 2018 I'll have 4WD.
If you are going for the stargazing how early is it recommended that you arrive? I hear that they turn away cars after a certain amount. Thanks!
A:
Hi, we went around 7 PM and left around 9PM. When we were leaving, we saw many folks coming at that time. So car parking is not an issue. Also, they do not have maximum people limit.
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