Located off of Highway 200 (Saddle Road), the Mauna Loa Observatory Trailhead provides access to the remote and rugged summit of Mauna Loa. The trailhead is approximately a two hour drive from Kīlauea Visitor Center. 

Mauna Loa Observatory Road is a narrow, paved, one-lane road. Drive with caution.

Hikers must be physically fit and properly equipped for this arduous hike. Hiking on flow fields can be hazardous due to deep earth cracks, uneven and unstable terrain, and razor-sharp lava.You must be fully prepared for rough terrain, high-elevation, and changing weather conditions. Altitude sickness and hypothermia are significant dangers. Contact the Backcountry Office for more information at (808) 985-6178. All overnight hikers must register.

The weather observatory is not open to the public.