Overview
Saddle Road, also known as Hawaii Route 200, is a scenic drive offering breathtaking views of the Big Island's diverse landscapes, from the arid slopes of Mauna Kea to the lush, tropical regions of Hilo.
It is one of the highest elevation highways in the United States, providing access to unique geological features and stunning vistas.
Location
Address
State Route 200, Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
Neighborhood: Hawaiian Paradise Park
Coordinates
19.650000, -155.500000
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
clear views, fewer clouds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild
- • wildflowers
- • clear skies
summer
hot
- • stargazing
- • clear skies
autumn
cool
- • fall colors
- • clear skies
winter
cold
- • snow on Mauna Kea
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check road conditions
- Bring water
- Full tank of gas
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • altitude sickness
Medical facilities: limited
Payment Information
Accepted
N/A
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, layers, walking shoes, N/A
Booking Tips
- • N/A
- • official website
- • N/A
- • N/A
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
GoHawaii App
Size: 100 MB
Features: Map, Travel guides
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers
Charging Stations: Visitor centers
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Hilo International Airport
Distance: 30 km
Travel Time: 35 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 20 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique landscapes, cultural significance
Historical Significance: Ancient Hawaiian trails
Insider Tips
- Best views at sunrise
- Avoid driving at night
Local Recommendations
- • Stop at Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station
- • Try local shave ice
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Hawaiian
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Wide angle
Result: Breathtaking sunset views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Visitor Center
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Distance: 100 km
Walking: N/A
Type: National Park
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Check road conditions"
- "Drive carefully"
- "Visit Mauna Kea"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (8)
Hilo Shore Excursion: Active Volcano, Lava Tube, Waterfall and Gardens
Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcano Safari Lava Caves, Falls and More
Hawaii Volcano National Park Hilo Shore Excursion
Deluxe Volcano Experience with Restaurant Dinner
Private Big Island Experience: 3 of 4 Window Seats
Hidden Craters Hike of Kona
Private Tour: Experience Active Kilauea Volcano & Hilo Rainbow Falls
Volcano Adventure - Search the Most Recent Active Volcano from Kona
Quick Info
Available Tours
14
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
Free