Fodor's Expert Review Hawaii Forest & Trail

The ultracomfortable, highly educational Summit & Stars tour packs a lot of fun into a few hours. Guides are knowledgeable about astronomy and Hawaii's geologic and cultural history, and the small group size (maximum of 12) encourages camaraderie while attending to safety. Included in the tour are dinner at an old ranching station, sunset on the summit, and a private star show midmountain. The company's powerful 11-inch Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope reveals many celestial objects. Everything from water bottles, parkas, and gloves to hot chocolate and brownies is included.

The company's Maunakea Sunrise tour begins in the wee hours before the sun comes up and includes a hike among the endangered silverswords as well as breakfast at the visitor center. Of course the main event is a spectacular sunrise on the summit. The company also offers a daytime version of the summit tour.