2013 Map of Mauna Kea

About this map

Mauna Kea dominates this high-altitude landscape, featuring the renowned Mauna Kea Observatories and the unique alpine waters of Lake Waiau. The topography is defined by a dense concentration of volcanic cones, or pu'u, including Pu'u Wēkiu, Pu'u Poliahu, and Pu'u Hau'oki. These peaks form the headwaters for several major drainage systems, including the Wailuku River and the 'Āwehi Stream that cut through the eastern slopes. Human infrastructure is minimal at these elevations, centered primarily on the scientific installations and the Mauna Kea Access Rd that climbs toward the summit. On the lower eastern reaches, the Kahinahina Forest Cabin provides a rare point of shelter amidst a network of deep gulches like Waipāhoehoe Gulch and Nāuhi Gulch.