Āinapō Trail to Mauna Loa Summit

This challenging hike climbs 7,600 feet in 10 miles topping out at 13,200 feet where it reaches a National Parks Service cabin on the rim of Mokuʻāweoweo crater at the summit of Mauna Loa. This cabin can be reserved online for overnight stays. The trail travels through a variety of landscapes including shrublands, forests and alpine deserts with lava rock. The trail can be hard to follow in some sections, so keep an eye out for blue “DOFAW” flags and rock cairns that indicate the path of the route. Along the trail, Hikers will also be afforded views of Halemaʻumaʻu volcanic vent atop Kīlauea. If continuing to the summit, hikers will need to register with the National Park Rangers (808-985-6000). Given the elevation, please keep in mind that it can snow, so check weather forecasts before attempting to reach the cabin.

To get here, drive the ʻĀinapō Road which is located between the 40 and 41-mile marker on Māmalahoa Highway 11. Drive for 5.7 miles on a 4WD road where you will reach a gate. The gate is locked but can be opened with a code which is issued by Kapāpala Ranch by texting a message to 808-937-8391 the day before you plan to enter. The gate code will be sent back via text no later than 4:30 am the day of entry. The trailhead is 2.3 miles beyond the gate.

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