There’s no doubt about it: the Hawaiian Islands are easily one of the greatest hiking destinations in the country — and maybe even the world. With miles and miles of trails that ascend mountains, traverse ridgelines, and lead to breathtaking natural beauty, Hawaii is truly a hiker’s paradise. But unlike many of the islands’ most popular hiking trails, however, the views you’ll find along the Highpoint Trail are not typical of what most people expect to find on a Hawaiian hiking trail. There’s are no rainforests, no waterfalls, no coastlines — just desert-like conditions and views that will make you feel like you’re at the top of the world.
Lace up your hiking boots and prepare for an adventure like no other:
Mauna Kea measures in at 13,796 feet above sea level, the highest point in the state of Hawaii. In fact, when measured from its oceanic base deep in the vast Pacific, the mountain measures in at more than 33,000 feet tall — that’s higher than Mount Everest.
Kevin McCarty/AllTrails
Mauna Kea is also home to some of most-well known observatories in the world, and it is at the summit of this sacred mountain that you will find the simply surreal Highpoint Trail.
Bill Watson/AllTrails
Measuring in at just one mile in length and gaining less than 300 feet in elevation, the lightly-trafficked Highpoint Trail is often overshadowed by the intense 6-mile (one way) Mauna Kea Trail, which gains more than 4,000 feet in elevation.
Bill Watson/AllTrails
The Highpoint Trail, however, starts at the end of the road where you will find the mountain’s many observatories. From there, hikers can embark on the short trail that leads to Mauna Kea’s highest point.
Kelsey Askew/AllTrails
Once you reach the summit, you will feel on top of the world. Not only will you discover jaw-dropping 360-degree panoramic views above the clouds, but you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment at hiking to the summit of one of America’s tallest mountains — even though you won’t be hiking very long.
Josh Azevedo/AllTrails
The landscape you’ll find along the trail is unlike any other in the Aloha State. The summit lies about the tree line and primarily consists of lava rock and alpine tundra. Growth is restricted by extremely cold temperatures, a short growing season, little rainfall, and snow during the winter months.
Kevin McCarty/AllTrails
Due to Mauna Kea’s wintry weather, this trail is best visited March through October when snow is unlikely to make an appearance.
Josh Azevedo/AllTrails
If you can handle hiking at this high altitude, the Highpoint Trail absolutely belongs on your Hawaii Island bucket list. Just don’t forget to wear warm clothing and check weather conditions before you go.
Josh Azevedo/AllTrails
So, tell us, have you ever hiked Hawaii’s Highpoint Trail at the summit of Mauna Kea? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.
Kevin McCarty/AllTrails
Bill Watson/AllTrails
Kelsey Askew/AllTrails
Josh Azevedo/AllTrails
To discover another hike that will take you to the top of the world, head on over to the island of Maui to discover Mount Haleakala’s Sliding Sands Trail.
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