Pohakuloa Training Area Perimeter Road
High desert military perimeter through volcanic saddle
This rugged military access road skirts the edge of Pohakuloa Training Area at 6,500 feet elevation, crossing the high desert saddle between Hawaii’s two massive volcanoes on loose cinder and weathered pahoehoe lava flows. The route connects Saddle Road to restricted training areas, passing abandoned military structures and offering unobstructed views of both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa summits, with the notorious Pu’u Huluhulu cinder cone marking the halfway point where the road gets seriously technical.
Difficult terrain demands modified 4WD with rock sliders and aggressive tires — the sharp volcanic cinder will find every weakness in your rig. Military training schedules can close access without warning, so check with PTA before heading out. Best conditions are during dry months (April-October), though altitude means cold nights year-round. Bring layers, extra fuel, and GPS backup since landmarks disappear in the volcanic moonscape. You’ll experience Hawaii’s hidden high desert that most tourists never see.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6800 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with protection |
| Nearest town | Waimea, Hawaii |
| Land manager | US Army |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle the Pohakuloa Training Area Perimeter Road?
No, this trail requires a modified 4WD with skid plates and rock sliders at minimum. The sharp volcanic rock will destroy stock undercarriage components.
Is the Pohakuloa Training Area accessible during winter months?
Not recommended November through March due to snow and ice at 6,800 feet elevation. Best access is April through October when weather is more predictable.
Do I need special permits to drive the military perimeter road?
Yes, you must obtain advance permission from the US Army garrison at Pohakuloa Training Area. This is active military land with restricted access.
What's the hardest section of this trail?
The eastern volcanic rock fields around mile 12 feature house-sized lava chunks and require precise line selection. Multiple vehicles have been totaled here from undercarriage damage.
Is there any cell service on the 18-mile perimeter road?
Zero cell coverage once you leave the main base area. Bring satellite communication device for emergencies as you're completely isolated in the high desert saddle.