This active research facility sits near Mauna Loa’s summit, serving as a critical atmospheric monitoring station since 1956. The observatory measures greenhouse gases and other atmospheric conditions in some of Earth’s cleanest air. Visitors can view the facility from outside but interior access is restricted. The thin air at this altitude affects most people — expect headaches and fatigue.
Reached via the brutal Mauna Loa Observatory Road from Saddle Road, requiring high-clearance 4WD and mechanical sympathy. Road conditions deteriorate rapidly above 10,000 feet. Weather can turn severe without warning, and snow is possible year-round. No services or water available.
World's highest atmospheric research station
Place Details
| Type | Point of Interest |
|---|---|
| Street address | 222 Ponahawai Street, Hilo, Hawaii 96720 Get directions → |
| Nearest town | Hilo, Hawaii |
| Miles from pavement | 17 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD |
| Access road surface | Rough dirt |
| Cell service | None |
| Best season | Year-round |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |