within the rugged expanse of Hawaii’s Big Island, the Saddle Road, also known as Route 200, weaves its way between the towering peaks of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. This enigmatic highway, once considered treacherous, now invites travelers to experience its breathtaking vistas and mysterious allure.

The Three Sisters and Beyond

• Three Sisters: Between mile markers 6 and 28, the Three Sisters hills create an optical illusion, making the road appear to ascend into the sky.
• Renovations and Renaming: Once notorious for its danger, the old Saddle Road has undergone extensive renovations. Now officially named the Daniel K. Inouye Highway, it provides access to the slopes of Mauna Loa and the Mauna Kea Observatories.

Yoshi Canopus, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons 

A Highway of Contrasts

• From Rainforest to Desert: Within 45 minutes, the Saddle Road transitions from lush rainforests to arid desert landscapes.
• Historical Significance: Originally carved out of lava in 1942, it served as an access road to the Pohakuloa Army Base during World War II.

Famartin, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons 

Navigating the Mysterious Road

• Challenging Terrain: The narrow, winding road features blind corners, hidden driveways, and open drainage ditches.
• Fog and Elevation: Fog often envelops the highway, and its maximum elevation reaches over 6,600 feet.

Step onto the Saddle Road, where earthly boundaries fade, and adventure awaits! 🛣️🌄

For more insights and travel tips, visit Hawaii Aloha Travel.

¹: Hawaii Route 200 – Wikipedia ²: Saddle Road: Hawaii Island’s Best Shortcut | Hawaii Aloha Travel