Saddle Road Scenic Drive
Drive between volcanoes on Saddle Road, Hawaii's scenic highway offering stunning volcanic vistas and world-class stargazing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Saddle Road Scenic Drive
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Drive between volcanoes on Saddle Road, Hawaii's scenic highway offering stunning volcanic vistas and world-class stargazing.
"One of the most magical places I have had the honor of visiting."
🚗 Drive with Caution
Saddle Road has been significantly improved, but still drive mindfully. Watch for changing conditions and other vehicles.
🧥 Pack a Jacket
Temperatures drop significantly at higher altitudes. A jacket is essential for comfort.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.8 · 45 reviews
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station
Summit Access Road
Experience breathtaking views and learn about astronomy at 9,000 feet. A must-do on the Big Island!
Scenic Viewpoints
Various pull-offs along Saddle Road
Pull over for stunning vistas of the island's volcanic landscapes and distant coastlines. Perfect for photos!
Stargazing Opportunities
Higher elevations, away from light pollution
On clear nights, the sky above Saddle Road transforms into a celestial spectacle. Incredible for stargazing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude Awareness is Key
Prepare for Changing Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
Saddle Road has been significantly improved, but still drive mindfully. Watch for changing conditions and other vehicles.
🧥 Pack a Jacket
Temperatures drop significantly at higher altitudes. A jacket is essential for comfort.
💧 Stay Hydrated
High altitudes can dehydrate you quickly. Drink plenty of water throughout your drive.
🔭 Astronomy Enthusiasts Rejoice
The Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station is a prime spot for learning about and viewing the night sky.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
Saddle Road has been significantly improved, but still drive mindfully. Watch for changing conditions and other vehicles.
🧥 Pack a Jacket
Temperatures drop significantly at higher altitudes. A jacket is essential for comfort.
💧 Stay Hydrated
High altitudes can dehydrate you quickly. Drink plenty of water throughout your drive.
🔭 Astronomy Enthusiasts Rejoice
The Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station is a prime spot for learning about and viewing the night sky.
📸 Pull Over Safely
Designated scenic viewpoints offer safe places to stop and capture the dramatic volcanic scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking volcanic scenery and the incredible stargazing opportunities along Saddle Road. The Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station is a highlight for its educational value and stunning views. Some note the lack of services and the importance of being prepared for high altitudes and changing weather.
"This is one of the safe places to pull over on Saddle Road to take pictures or enjoy the view. It is just a small gravel area to park with a fun informational sign written in English and in Hawaiin. This historical marker is at the entrance to Saddle House (not open to the public).
It was 73° when I was there but having a jacket handy is a good idea as it is usually much cooler."
potato salad
"This is a GREAT rest stop when crossing the Saddle Road in either direction,
Clean bathrooms and an exercise Par Course with exercise stations an about a half mile circular track....unfortunately as yet no vendors and no vending.
Also a great Stargazing place after Sunset as rarely cloudy.
Altitude about 7000ft."
Doug Hilo
"One of the most magical places I have had the honor of visiting"
Ashley Brown
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Saddle Road (Highway 200) is the main route connecting Hilo and Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. It's a paved highway that winds through the center of the island, between the volcanoes Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.
Saddle Road has undergone significant upgrades and is now a well-maintained highway. However, it's still advisable to drive cautiously, especially at higher elevations and during inclement weather.
While Saddle Road leads to the Mauna Kea Access Road, driving to the summit requires a 4WD vehicle and is not recommended for rental cars. The Visitor Information Station at 9,000 feet is accessible to most vehicles.
The drive across Saddle Road typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your starting and ending points and any stops you make. It's a scenic route that offers a different perspective of the island.
Services are limited along Saddle Road. There are no gas stations or major towns directly on the route. It's best to fill up your gas tank and stock up on snacks and water before you begin your journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or fees required to drive Saddle Road itself. Access to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station is also free.
The Visitor Information Station is typically open during daylight hours and into the evening for stargazing programs. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours.
The scenic viewpoints along Saddle Road are simply pull-offs on the side of the road and do not have any entrance fees.
Yes, children can visit the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station. However, due to the high altitude, it's recommended to monitor them for any signs of altitude sickness and to limit their time at higher elevations if they are very young or have respiratory issues.
Stargazing programs at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station are often free, but donations are appreciated. Check their schedule for specific events and times.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for designated 'Scenic Viewpoint' pull-offs along the road. These offer safe places to stop and capture the vast volcanic landscapes, unique flora, and distant ocean views.
Absolutely! The high elevation and open vistas make Saddle Road a fantastic location for sunset photography. The changing light on the volcanic terrain is spectacular.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. For stargazing, a camera with good low-light performance and a tripod are essential.
Photography of the observatories at the summit is generally restricted. However, you can photograph the Visitor Information Station and the surrounding landscape.
Generally, no. You are free to photograph the scenery from the pull-offs. Be respectful of any private property or restricted areas if you venture off the main road.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit