Ring in the New Year: Sunrise from Mauna Kea Summit

There's no more spectacular way to start a new year than watching the first sunrise from the summit of Mauna Kea. At 13,803 feet above sea level, you'll be above 40% of Earth's atmosphere, watching the sun illuminate the clouds below as a new year begins.

Why Mauna Kea for New Year's?

Mauna Kea offers a truly unique sunrise experience:

• Above the clouds: Watch the sun illuminate the cloud layer below
• First sunrise: Hawaii's time zone means an early first sunrise
• Spiritual significance: Mauna Kea is sacred to Native Hawaiians
• Unobstructed views: 360-degree panorama of the Pacific
• Astronomical clarity: Some of Earth's clearest air

Planning Your Summit Sunrise

Timing

• Sunrise on January 1: Approximately 6:55 AM
• Leave Hilo: Around 4:00-4:30 AM
• Arrive at Visitor Center: 5:00-5:15 AM (mandatory stop)
• Reach summit: 6:00-6:15 AM

Vehicle Requirements

The summit road requires a 4WD vehicle. The unpaved road is steep and can be icy in winter. If you don't have 4WD, consider:

• Joining a guided tour (book far in advance for New Year's)
• Viewing sunrise from the Visitor Information Station (9,200 feet)

What to Expect

The Experience

1. Pre-dawn drive: Navigate Saddle Road in darkness
2. Acclimatization stop: Required 30+ minutes at Visitor Center
3. Summit ascent: Steep climb in darkness
4. Position yourself: Find your viewing spot before first light
5. Pre-dawn colors: Watch the sky transition from black to purple to pink
6. Sunrise: The sun rises over the cloud layer—breathtaking
7. Descent: Return as the mountain warms

The Views

On a clear morning, you'll see:

• The shadow of Mauna Kea projected onto the atmosphere
• Maui's Haleakala across the channel
• The cloud layer far below
• Possibly all four neighboring islands
• The curvature of the Earth on the horizon

Essential Preparations

What to Bring

• Warm winter clothing: Temperatures can be below freezing
• Multiple layers: Down jacket, fleece, base layers
• Winter hat and gloves: Essential at altitude
• Closed-toe shoes: Required, preferably warm boots
• Hot drinks in thermos: Coffee or hot chocolate
• Water: Dehydration risk at altitude
• Snacks: Light, easy-to-eat items
• Flashlight: For walking in darkness
• Camera with full battery: Cold drains batteries
• Extra camera batteries: Keep warm in pockets

Safety Considerations

• Altitude: Take altitude sickness seriously
• Don't rush: Move slowly at the summit
• Know the symptoms: Headache, nausea, dizziness
• Descend if needed: If you feel unwell, go down
• Stay hydrated: Altitude increases dehydration
• No alcohol the night before: Increases altitude effects

Alternative Viewing Locations

If the summit seems too challenging, consider:

Visitor Information Station (9,200 feet)

• No 4WD required (though recommended)
• Less severe altitude
• Still above most clouds
• Hot drinks often available

Pu'u Huluhulu (6,700 feet)

• Easy access from Saddle Road
• No altitude issues
• Beautiful views of both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa

After Sunrise

Make the most of your early start:

• Explore the summit area before descending
• Take photos with the observatories
• Drive to Waimea for breakfast
• Return for a New Year's Day nap!

Cultural Respect

Mauna Kea is sacred to Native Hawaiians:

• Be respectful of the mountain and other visitors
• Don't stack rocks or build cairns
• Stay on designated roads and areas
• Leave no trace