While most people do not associate the tropical paradise that Hawaii is known for with snow, they are surprised to learn that it snows in winter due to the elevation of these volcanic peaks. Mauna Kea is the tallest of these, at 13,803 feet. Halikala in Maui is much lower at 10,023 feet. Due to this difference, the island of Hawaii will snow more often than the lower island of Maui. In just one storm last January, the island of Hawaii received 2-3 feet of snow and deeper snow drifts.