At nearly 13,800 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea represents the highest mountain in the Pacific Rim.
The hiking trail to the summit is 6 miles in length and starts at the Visitor Information Station (VIS).
The summit boasts incredible 360-degree views of the Big Island as well as cinder cones, craters and, when temperatures drop low enough, snow and ice.
Experienced hikers traversing the entire trail are advised to bring necessary equipment including cold-weather clothing, boots and shelter in case an overnight stay is necessary.
Visitors may also use four-wheel drive transportation to reach the summit, observe the breathtaking sights including ancient Hawaiian shrines and astronomical observatories perched atop the mountain.