Random Travel tidbit #1

If you are going to drive up to the top Mauna Kea on the Big Island, you do NOT need a 4wd vehicle. We did it in a Ford Fusion and it did just fine. On the way up, the ground was a little wet, but we took it slow and we managed to keep up with all the tour vans. There were a few spots where the traction control kicked on, just keep it at 10MPH and don't stop. We got there just in time for sunset and it was amazing. It is above the clouds, even on the rainy day we went up there. On the way down, we stuck it in low gear and used the hill decent control. Never had to touch the brakes. 4wd could come in handy if the road is super wet, but the steepest parts are all paved and well groomed at the top. Go slow and save money by using a fuel efficient car :) We saw 4-5 MPG going up the road due to lack of oxygen and high revving engine. Combined with the trip back down, we averaged 30MPG. Do the math.