Location and surroundings
Puu Nana is located in the United States, specifically in the state of Hawaii and within Hawaiʻi County. Regionally, it belongs to the Mauna Kea range, which is part of the broader Hawaiian Islands and Polynesia. Among the 1,111 named peaks in Hawaii, it ranks 58th by elevation, and it is the 32nd highest out of 90 named peaks in the Mauna Kea range. The surrounding landscape consists of volcanic terrain typical of high-altitude areas in the region.
Neighbouring peaks
The immediate surroundings feature several peaks and passes at various distances and elevations:
- Pu‘unanaha, peak, 2,771 m, 0.5 km SE
- Pu‘ulā‘au, peak, 2,271 m, 3.4 km W
- Nau, peak, 3,451 m, 4.3 km SE
- Pu‘u‘okihe, peak, 1,954 m, 4.4 km N
- Pu‘umana‘o, peak, 2,364 m, 4.6 km SW
- Pu‘u‘ula‘ula, peak, 2,262 m, 4.8 km SW
- Pu‘uokauha, peak, 2,528 m, 5.2 km S
- Kemole, peak, 2,488 m, 5.4 km NE
Compared to these nearby landforms, Puu Nana reaches 2,672 metres, making it lower than its closest neighbour Pu‘unanaha, which stands at 2,771 metres just 0.5 kilometres to the southeast.
The view from the summit
From the heights of Puu Nana, several prominent summits within a 25-kilometre radius are visible under clear conditions. The highest peaks within this range include Maunakea at 4,207 metres located 10.3 kilometres to the east, Pu‘upōhaku at 4,019 metres positioned 7.9 kilometres to the east, and Pu‘umāhoe at 4,004 metres situated 10.8 kilometres to the east. Additionally, observers can spot Pu‘uko‘oko‘olau reaching 3,806 metres at 10.6 kilometres to the southeast, Pu‘umākanaka standing at 3,779 metres 14.2 kilometres to the east, and Pu‘ukeonehehe‘e at 3,514 metres located 13.0 kilometres to the southeast.
The range
The Mauna Kea range spans across the Hawaiian Islands within Polynesia. The highest peak of this range is Maunakea, reaching 4,207 metres and located 10 kilometres east of Puu Nana. The range contains 90 named peaks, and Puu Nana holds the 32nd highest rank among them by elevation.
Climate and weather
Climate estimates derived from NASA POWER data covering the period from 2001 to 2000, with temperatures adjusted to the summit elevation, indicate that the warmest month at the summit is July with a mean temperature of about 11 °C, while the coldest month is January at about 8 °C. Precipitation in the surrounding area is about 1,600 millimetres a year, with March being the wettest month receiving about 190 millimetres, and June the driest with about 90 millimetres. Typical weather hazards for this elevation and region include sudden temperature drops, strong winds, and high-altitude exposure.
Best time to visit
The months with a mean temperature above freezing at the summit span the entire year, including January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, and December. When planning a visit, targeting the drier months such as June provides more stable conditions, though visitors must remain prepared for the variable climate typical of high-altitude volcanic terrain.
Nature and wildlife
The environment around Puu Nana features high-elevation volcanic slopes with sparse vegetation adapted to alpine conditions, intense sun exposure, and variable temperatures. Wildlife in this high zone is generally limited to hardy insects and native birds capable of surviving the rugged terrain and lower oxygen levels found at 2,672 metres.
Guides and organised ascents
For visitors seeking professional assistance, the national mountain guide association in the United States is the American Mountain Guides Association, which is an IFMGA/UIAGM member. The national alpine club is the American Alpine Club. Established guiding companies working in the mountains of the country include RMI Expeditions based in Ashford, Washington, and Exum Mountain Guides based in Moose, Wyoming. Permit rules in the United States vary, as some peaks require climbing registration or permits from the land agency, such as Denali where climbers must register at least 60 days ahead, and Mount Rainier for routes on glaciers or above high camps.
Safety and preparation
This elevation and terrain demand proper acclimatization, sturdy footwear, and windproof and waterproof clothing to cope with rapid weather shifts. In case of an emergency, the general emergency number for mountain rescue in the area is 911, which connects to dispatchers who alert the local search and rescue team, usually run by the county sheriff or national park.
Interesting facts
Puu Nana ranks as the 32nd highest of 90 named peaks within the Mauna Kea range. Its nearest higher peak is Pu‘unanaha, which stands at 2,771 metres just 0.5 kilometres to the southeast. The highest point of the range, Maunakea, is located 10 kilometres to the east.
FAQ
What is the elevation of Puu Nana? Puu Nana stands at an elevation of 2,672 metres.Where is Puu Nana located? It is located in the United States, in the state of Hawaii, Hawaiʻi County, within the Mauna Kea range.
Which range does Puu Nana belong to? It belongs to the Mauna Kea range, part of the Hawaiian Islands in Polynesia.
What are the nearest peaks to Puu Nana? The nearest peaks include Pu‘unanaha at 0.5 km SE, Pu‘ulā‘au at 3.4 km W, and Nau at 4.3 km SE.
How does Puu Nana compare to its neighbours? It is lower than its closest higher peak, Pu‘unanaha, which reaches 2,771 metres.
Is there water on the way to Puu Nana? There are no verified natural water sources or huts listed along the way, so visitors must carry an adequate supply of water, typically 1.5 to 3 litres for a day depending on weather and exertion.
What is the mobile phone coverage like on Puu Nana? Coverage in the hills is patchy and depends on the operator, but 112 or 911 reaches emergency services over any available network, and digital maps should always be downloaded before setting out.