Mauna Kea Scenic Viewpoint

We had a fabulous experience at sunset. Be aware that it is 25 to 30° cooler than Hilo, so dress accordingly. The visitor information center has stargazing talks about an hour after sunset. This is one of our highlights of our visit to the big island.

This is one of the safe places to pull over on Saddle Road to take pictures or enjoy the view. It is just a small gravel area to park with a fun informational sign written in English and in Hawaiin. This historical marker is at the entrance to Saddle House (not open to the public). It was 73° when I was there but having a jacket handy is a good idea as it is usually much cooler.

This is a GREAT rest stop when crossing the Saddle Road in either direction, Clean bathrooms and an exercise Par Course with exercise stations an about a half mile circular track....unfortunately as yet no vendors and no vending. Also a great Stargazing place after Sunset as rarely cloudy. Altitude about 7000ft.

We are hikers and this offered GREAT views

It's just a wider gravel shoulder, not a paved stop or parking. Same view as the rest of the road, but at least you can make a safer stop and take one more look at the tallest mounting in the world and surrounding lava field.