Mauna Kea

Where it is

Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii, the highest point in the state. From Hilo on the eastern coast at sea level, the road climbs roughly 70 km to the summit observatories at 4205 m. The lower portion follows Highway 200 (Saddle Road) and the Mauna Kea Access Road. The final five kilometres above the visitor centre are steep gravel.

What makes it iconic

There is no other paved climb in the world that goes from the ocean to over 4000 m in a single ride. The first 50 km on Saddle Road climb gradually through ranchland and lava fields. The Mauna Kea Access Road that turns off Saddle is far steeper - about 8 percent for 15 km of asphalt up to the visitor centre at 2800 m. Above that, the unpaved switchbacks to the summit hit 18 percent on dirt.

Race history

There is no recurring professional race on Mauna Kea, but it has been the subject of repeated FKT (fastest known time) attempts. The current Strava-tracked best on the full ride from sea level is around five hours of moving time. Most amateurs take seven to nine hours.

Pacing

This is an altitude expedition more than a bike race. The major risks are altitude sickness above 3000 m, sudden weather changes (snow at the summit is common in winter), and the gravel section near the top, which often requires walking on road tyres. Most riders need at least one full day at altitude before attempting it and ride with a support vehicle carrying warm clothing and food.

Practical notes

The visitor centre at 2800 m has water and a café. Above that, there is nothing. The summit road is technically closed to cyclists in some conditions; check with the visitor centre on the day. The descent must be done with caution - speeds easily exceed 80 km/h on the paved sections. Bring full winter gear for the summit, even in July.