Hilo to Hawi via Saddle Road (SR200)
Ride Description and Comments
Contributer: Rainier Wolfcastle (11-23-2006)
Distance: 103.5 mi.
The Saddle Road connects Hilo to the west side of the Big Island. The Saddle Road itself is about 60 miles of winding road between between Mauna Kea (north) and Mauna Loa (south). The weather can be sunny at the coast but drizzly and foggy near the volcanos so be prepared! Scenery from the passing lava fields are unlike any other...be wary when you pull over to snap photos as the lava is razor sharp.
Part of the adventure is driving the road itself. To give you an idea, most rental car companies discourage or forbid you from driving the Saddle Road. Technically a paved road, the Saddle Road is a narrow, winding, barely two-lane road with steep grades, sharp curves, and poor pavement. As a result, motorists to drive in the center of the road. Adding to the challenge are multiple one-lane bridges.
That being said, no vacation on the big island would be complete without a ride down the Saddle Road.
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Weather
Conditions for Hilo, HI at 5:53 am HST
Current Conditions:
Light Rain, 67 F
Forecast:
Sat - Showers. High: 81 Low: 68
Sun - Showers. High: 80 Low: 67