Ascending the White Mountain

The thrill of adventure is a siren call I can never resist, and the Mauna Kea Summit on Hawaii’s Big Island was no exception. Known as the ‘White Mountain,’ Mauna Kea stands at a staggering 13,796 feet above sea level, promising an exhilarating journey through space and time. As a former extreme sports athlete, the idea of conquering Hawaii’s tallest peak was irresistible. I gathered my fellow thrill-seekers, and we embarked on this celestial adventure.

Our journey began at the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, where we met our guide. The anticipation was palpable as we boarded the 4x4 vehicle, ready to tackle the steep, unpaved roads leading to the summit. The ride was a heart-pounding experience in itself, with the rugged terrain challenging even the most seasoned adventurers. I was grateful for our experienced driver, as the road was not for the faint-hearted. The fog added an element of suspense, temporarily closing the road to the summit. But this only heightened the sense of adventure, as we enjoyed a warm meal of chicken chili while acclimating to the altitude at the Maunakea Visitor Information Station.

Reaching for the Stars

As the fog lifted, we resumed our ascent, bypassing the long queue of rental Jeeps thanks to our tour’s priority access. The summit awaited, and as we reached the top, the views were nothing short of breathtaking. The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, a sight that will forever be etched in my memory. The air was thin, and the altitude was palpable, but the beauty of the moment was worth every breathless second.

The summit was bustling with fellow adventurers, all eager to capture the perfect sunset shot. As the sun disappeared, the rangers began clearing the area, but our adventure was far from over. We descended to a more comfortable elevation, where our guide set up telescopes for an unforgettable stargazing experience. The sky was a canvas of stars, each one twinkling with a brilliance that seemed almost otherworldly. Our guide’s knowledge of the constellations and Hawaiian star navigation added depth to the experience, making it both educational and awe-inspiring.

A Celestial Finale

With hot chocolate in hand, we marveled at the night sky, spotting deep space objects through the powerful telescopes. The Stellina digital telescope allowed us to capture images of the Hawaiian night sky, a souvenir of this extraordinary adventure. The camaraderie among our group was palpable, as we shared stories and laughter under the stars.

As we descended back to sea level, I reflected on the day’s adventure. The Mauna Kea Summit tour was more than just a journey to the top of a mountain; it was a voyage through the cosmos, a reminder of the vastness of our universe and the beauty of our planet. For those who seek the thrill of the unknown and the allure of the stars, this adventure is a must-do. The Mauna Kea Summit is not just a destination; it’s an experience that will leave you breathless and yearning for more. Mauna Kea Adventure