Haleakala National Park is located on the south-eastern coast of the island on Maui. The park is rising 10,023 feet above sea level, with an amazing landscape. Haleakala means “House of the Sun” in Hawaiian. Yes, it is the perfect spot to see the sunrise and sunset.
The park is also home to one of the world’s largest volcanic craters. Haleakalā National Park was established on August 1, 1916, by Thomas A. Jaggar, a scientist at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.
Best Time to Visit Haleakala National Park:
The best time to visit Haleakala National Park in winter from December through February. During winter the park has the most comfortable weather to hike and you can also enjoy the weather. You can also go for the most popular sunrise at Haleakala.
Expense To Visit Haleakala National Park:
Entrance Fees
- 3 day pass for private, a non-commercial vehicle with a maximum capacity of 14 or less cost $30
- 3 day pass for private, non-commercial motorcycle cost $25
- A 3-day pass for an individual with no car costs $15. Youth under the age of 15 entry fee is free.
- The annual pass for Haleakala National Park costs $55 which is valid for 12 months.
Commercial Groups:
- For non-road-based organized groups, activities like Astronomy and Hiking cost $15 per person.
- Road-based tour vehicles, such as sedans, with a passenger capacity of 1-7 people cost $30 plus $15 for each person.
- For road-based tour vehicles, such as large vans and minibusses, with a passenger capacity of 8-25 people cost $45.
Non-Commercial Groups
- Non-commercial vehicles with a vehicle capacity of 14 or less cost $30
- Non-commercial vehicles with a capacity of 15 or more cost $15 for each person.
Things To Do In Haleakala National Park:
Watch the Sunrise/Sunset
The favorite activity in Haleakala is the sunrise, you can even make a reservation to watch the sunrise. You get to watch the sun slowly covering the land with vibrant color is something you should not miss. Both sunset and sunrise are beautiful. The crowds are more for sunrise than for sunset, if you want a little more privacy you can go for sunset.
Ziplining
If you like to do something adventurous you can go ziplining. You can see the breathtaking view of Maui from a zipline and fly over volcanic canyons. Haleakala ziplining would be a fun activity to try with your family from age 8 to 98 are allowed.
Stargazing
Stargazing at Haleakala is known worldwide and for its observation site. At Haleakalā you can see the dark skies from the summit which is perfect for stargazing. Since the park is in high elevation, the sky is often clearer, and less light pollution, giving a perfect condition to view the stars.
Go For Hike
The best way to explore Haleakala National Park is by hiking. There are over 30-miles of hiking trails from 10 minutes to overnight trips. The hiking groups should not be more than 12 members, if you have a larger group you need to split. Each group will be separated by 30 minutes. Make sure you stay on the marked trail.
Places to Visit in Haleakala National Park
Haleakal is the most unique national park in the state. The park offers a lot to explore, if your are adventure seekers or just want to enjoy the beauty of nature Halekala is perfect destination for all. Haleakala features one of the most beautiful sunrises in the National Park system. There are lot more than hiking trail and sightseeing:
- Pipiwai Trail
- Waimoku Falls
- Sliding Sands Trail
- Haleakala Crater
- ‘Ohe‘o Gulch
How to Reach Haleakala National Park
Haleakala has no public transportation to the park, so you need to travel by your own vehicle or with a guided tour group. The park is located in the southeast of the island which can be reached from Kahului. To reach the summit area of Haleakala is a three hour trip drive from Kahului via State roads 37, 377 and 378. Follow the signs posted along the Highway.