Hawaii Volcanoes National Park officials announced Mauna Loa Road has reopened after the early completion of work to drill into and sample material below the road.

Surveyors will continue to work along the historic roadway, which traverses from Kīpukapuaulu to the 6,667-foot Mauna Loa Lookout, until mid-Decemeber. HVNP urges motorists to drive slowly and to obey all signs. 

The drilling, sampling and surveys will provide information for the rehabilitation of Mauna Loa Road, which is expected to start in late 2025. The rehab work will improve the safety and accessibility to the road, while maintaining its historic width and scenic route through native forest, lava flows and viewpoints. 

Visit the park website for construction updates.