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This is the road to Hilo from the Kona side of the Island. Good paved road. Long up hills and down hills, straight as a pin. But be prepared, do not be the person who over heats. Get gas and snacks and drinks before you take off. Check the oil and radiator on your personal rig before you take off. There are a number of long miles with no services. Great views. Interesting the way the land and the landscape changes from lava and rock, to lush green, to even some critical habitat. Take the time to visit the observatory if it is open.…
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Date of experience: January 2021
1 Helpful vote
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We have driven many times in past years and this is very good road now. Takes about one hour or more depending on where you star from. Most of what you will see is lava fields but think about it, it’s HAWAII and there is so much beauty on this island it’s hard to believe. When you get to Hilo side it changes into two roads 200 and 2000 so that can trick someone up a little. There is lots to see in Hilo, but it also rains more over there. When coming back to Kona side on saddle back as you start to descend down to Kona area just make sure you have a car with good brakes. The speed can get over 75 miles per hour and start braking when the sign says 1 mile from end. One year with my family & friends and a rented van with Bad brakes I really feared we would not stop! There also is a rest stop on the way and a park area for the kids to get out and play. All and all the Big Island is just a really enjoyable place to spend some time and to take lots of pictures and take away memories.…
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Date of experience: November 2020
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The view was ok, lava fields for the most part. Certainly more interesting at sunrise/sunset. Pretty much just a quick way to get from Kona to Hilo or vice versa. It gets pretty cold at night, well for Hawaii!
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Date of experience: August 2020
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+1
Saddle road provides two purposes. From a strictly economic purpose, it is the fastest way to cross the island. From a scenic purpose, it is a very different view of the island than the 11/19 circle island road. My wife and I did the Circle Island tour so we wanted to see the only part of the island that we wouldn't see on that tour: the center of it. We landed in Hilo, explored that charming town, so ourselves a to go lunch, used the bathroom, and started the long drive across the island. There are many trail heads along the route and of course the entrance to Mauna Kea. The environment has dramatic changes from lava flows, to forests, to farmlands and the elevation climb and descent makes for some unique and fun driving. The road itself is maintained wonderfully and you should have no fears driving across it. The only thing to not is that once you start the main road on either end you will not see a restaurant, gas station or public bathroom along the road. So be prepared for the journey before you head out.…
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Date of experience: March 2020
1 Helpful vote
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+1
Shortest route between west, Kona district to East, Hilo district. Only you can see those signature mountains from your car, but some place have trails. Please enjoy 3,000 ft beautiful road trip. Bring your drink and snacks.
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Date of experience: August 2020
1 Helpful vote
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