Hey there my fellow travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my 3 best spots for some snow skiing in Hawaii this year. Yes…Hawaii! When one thinks of Hawaii, the first things that come to mind are sun, sand, and surf. However, what many people don’t know is that Hawaii is also a great destination for snow skiing. That’s right, snow skiing in paradise!
Overall, skiing in Hawaii is a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. So, if you’re looking for a unique ski destination that offers both great skiing and beautiful scenery, then Hawaii should be at the top of your list.
Best Spots for Some Snow Skiing in Hawaii
As above, the beautiful islands of Hawaii also offer some of the best skiing experiences in the world. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can find a skiing location that suits your level of expertise. Here are some of the best skiing locations in Hawaii.
1. Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea, meaning ‘white mountain’ in Hawaiian, is one of the most popular skiing locations in Hawaii. Located on the Big Island, Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano that stands at 13,803 feet above sea level. The summit of Mauna Kea is covered in snow throughout the year and it offers some of the best skiing experiences in Hawaii.
This is a ski area that is for intermediate to advanced skiers only and there are no ski lifts, grooming or resorts with a hot chocolate waiting at the end of the day. Access to the summit requires a 4-wheel drive vehicle, which acts as a makeshift “lift.”
- Weather and Conditions:
- Winter temperatures range from 25 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit (-4 to 4 degrees Celsius), but wind chill and high altitude can make it feel much colder.
- Between April and November, the weather is milder, with daytime temperatures ranging from 30 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (0 to 15 degrees Celsius).
- Terrain and Safety:
- The snow can have a unique texture due to intense sun exposure, and some runs can be quite steep.
- The underlying surface is hard lava rock and abrasive cinder, not soft vegetation.
- Skiers should be in good physical shape due to the thin air at high altitude and the risk of altitude sickness.
- Additional Experiences – Observatories:
- The observatories on Mauna Kea are among the best in the world, and Summit Tours of the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy and the Visitor Information Station are available.
- There are no amenities like food, water, gas or bathrooms above the visitor station.
The best chances for snow are typically between January and March, although this can vary.
2. Mauna Loa
Mauna Loa is another potential skiing location on the Big Island of Hawaii that like Mauna Kea, is a high volcanic mountain that occasionally receives snow. However, skiing opportunities on Mauna Loa are even rarer and more unpredictable than on Mauna Kea.
This active volcano stands at 13,678 feet above sea level and is the largest volcano on earth. The summit of Mauna Loa is covered in snow throughout the year and when deeper, can offer some of the best skiing experiences in Hawaii. The skiing season at Mauna Loa usually runs from December to April, and the snow quality is excellent.
Again, there are no ski resorts, lifts or groomed trails and any skiing would be backcountry and require significant preparation and self-sufficiency. Additionally, access to potential skiing areas would likely require a four-wheel-drive vehicle and knowledge of the terrain.
Given the rugged and variable conditions, skiing on Mauna Loa is recommended only for experienced skiers who are well-prepared for backcountry conditions. Snowfall is unpredictable and varies from year to year. The best chances for snow are typically in the winter months, but this can vary greatly.
Check out these: Best Winter Destinations in the United States
3. Haleakala
Haleakala is a dormant volcano located on the island of Maui. The 14,000-foot summit of the Haleakalā Crater on Maui sometimes receives snow, although it’s less frequent compared to the Big Island. The skiing season at Haleakala usually runs from December to April, if the snow appears of course.
Skiing on Haleakalā, like on Mauna Kea, is a unique experience due to the lack of traditional ski amenities and the need for self-sufficiency in accessing and navigating the terrain. The snow pack is generally very shallow as well, which can lead to injury so great care must be taken.
This is definitely a cross-country skiing or even mountaineering location with a little snow thrown in rather than an actual skiing or snowboarding area. Although this has occurred in colder seasons. And finally, the volcanic mountains are culturally significant and environmentally sensitive areas so skiers should respect these aspects while enjoying their activities.
FAQs
Are there any places to go snow skiing in Hawaii?
Yes, Hawaii offers unique snow skiing experiences, primarily on its volcanic mountains. The most popular and accessible spot for skiing, Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano with elevations high enough to receive snowfall during the winter months however there are no ski lifts, so access to the skiing areas requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
While less frequented than Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa also offers skiing opportunities however the conditions here are more unpredictable and the terrain is more rugged, making it suitable for experienced backcountry skiers. And occasionally, Haleakalā Crater receives snowfall as well where skiing is a rare and unique experience due to the infrequency of snow and the absence of ski facilities.
Conclusion
There you have it; my 3 best spots in Honolulu for skiing. As usual, let me know of your experiences here or if there is anything you think I need to add.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
