Mauna Loa Observatory Access Road

Mauna Loa Observatory Road partially closed due to recent lava flows.

The Mauna Loa Observatory Road is partially obstructed by the 2022 Mauna Loa Eruption flows at the 8,895-ft. elevation. Access to the end of the road, NOAA weather observatory, and trails to the summit of Mauna Loa are completely impassible by foot, vehicle, or any other means.

**Please stay off the 2022 lava flow to protect yourself from hazardous conditions. These include, but are not limited to, hot spots with high temperatures, unstable footing, and sharp lava rocks.**

The thick lava flow will remain extremely hot for several months or even years before grading work can be done safely to reopen the road completely.

Additional Information

Allowed Access

Bicycles

Dogs

Pedestrians

Activities

Hiking

Road Biking

Rules & Regulations

Carry Out Trash

Dogs On Leash

Pack Out Dog Waste

Stay On Trail

Prohibited

No Littering
No Plant Sand Dirt Rock Removal
No Rock Climbing
No Skateboards

Mountain Bikers

Always yield to hikers. Be cautious on blind turns. This road is not an easy mountain bike trail due to the extreme elevation.

Simple Trail Tips

Stay on the trail
Check the weather
Watch the time
Avoid undue risk
Read all posted signs
Respect other trail users
Pack out at least what you pack in

Special Conditions

Do not use any trail or access road that is not delineated by name and color and that may also be displayed on these maps. The marked features are managed for public recreational use. Other trails or roads that branch off from the public features may be on private property, and are not managed for any public recreational use. Access is subject to adjacent landowner approval, and if used without authorization, you will be trespassing and possibly putting yourself at risk. Downloadable resources are provided below.

Activities

Bicycle
4-wheel drive
Pedestrian
Sightseeing
Tours

Amenities

Parking

Features

Nature Study
Open Views
Scenic Viewpoint
Sensitive Area

Hazards

Blind Corner
High Elevation
Sun Exposure
Vehicle Traffic

Directions

This road begins at the 27.7 mile point of Daniel K. Inouye Highway (Hwy 200), just Hilo side of Puʻu Huluhulu Native Tree Sanctuary.