Haleakala Crater National Park
add photosPark Headquarters Visitor Center (7000 ft/2134 m) - 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Haleakala Visitor Center (9740 ft/2969 m) - 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Kipahulu Visitor Center (sea level) - 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
8 Reviews for Haleakala Crater National Park
26
100 families found this helpful
"A Must See"
If you are in Maui you must make a trip to the top of the mountain. In my opinion the best time to take in the view is at sunrise. Yes, you will have to make the sacrifice to get up very early, but it is breathtaking and you won't forget it. The ride down is beautiful too and offers a different landscape to enjoy in contrast to the beaches
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1 family found this helpful
"Amazing views!"
I loved this part of our trip! What a beautiful view! Next time I want to do the bike ride down the volcano. I loved the park, getting to see the crater, the tour, the dusty crater dirt, and the breath taking views of the amazing ocean! Plan a day trip if your going to do this. Take some snacks, enjoy the view and the landscape.
0 families found this helpful
"Pure heaven"
Standing on the top of Mt. Haleakala as the sun rises over the crater is the most magical moment. It truly is as if you can reach up and pluck the stars out of the sky. However, if you go, don't forget to dress warm. It is very very cold on top of that crater.
'11
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"Bike It (if you still can)"
We took the 40+ mile bike ride down form the top of the crater to Baldwin State Beach a few years ago. Last I heard, they had cancelled the bike rides, but that may have changed.
The views form the crater at sunrise are nothing short of amazing. Believe it or not, the ride is actually a pice of cake. You go through plantations, lavender fields (the smell is AMAZING) and end up at an awesome beach. The bike companies provide shuttle transportation to & from your hotel.
If you go to catch the sunrise, bring a jacket & hat - it's COLD up there!
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"Absolutely a must do!"
Go for sunrise or sunset, you won't be disappointed. We've been a few times when it is cloudy and it is still worth it. We have taken kids younger than 8 as was recommended.
You can also rent bikes or be part of a tour that bikes down Haleakala, which is probably more for bigger kids.
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"Fun with the Family"
At the park’s entrance, there’s a small trail to the left of the headquarters; take it. It leads to two spectacular overlooks: Leleiwi and Kalahaku. Of the two, Kalahaku is the better because you get a good view of rare silversword plants from here. You can follow the signs for the Silversword Loop Trail; it’s less than 1⁄10 mile and will offer up-close views of these beautiful plants.
NOTE: On any hiking trail it’s important to stay on the well-worn paths. With a slight misstep or detour, a hiker could unknowingly crush the roots of an endangered plant, not only killing the plant, but eventually killing the insects that feed off of the plant. Please explore with caution and be aware that the ecosystem here is very fragile.
Several companies offer guided hikes throughout the park. Hike Maui, operated by naturalist extraordinaire Ken Schmitt, features a veritable menu of hiking options designed to accommodate different ages and skill levels. Many of his hikes include a picnic lunch, and all of them offer a great chance to learn about the biological, environmental, and geographical particulars of the area. In addition to Haleakala, Schmitt leads hikes in the remote areas of Hana, La Perouse Bay, Polipoli Springs, and Iao Valley. Don’t miss a chance to join his living classroom—it’s educational, fun, and beautiful all at the same time. For more information call 879–5270; or visit www.hikemaui.com.
The park’s visitor center is at the end of the road, about 10 miles beyond the headquarters. The center is open from sunrise to 3:00 P.M. and features informative displays that explain the nearby natural wonders. Every hour, the staff rangers provide a short, interesting lecture about the geological wonders of Haleakala. The rangers also host a variety of hikes, during which they take time to explain certain outstanding features of the flora, fauna, or landscape. For more information call the center at 572–4400.
2 families found this helpful
"Unique Place"
Take the time to go all the way up to the top. It is breathtaking to see it during sunset or sunrise. Be safe and be sure to read about it before going. You will see a variety of fauna and animals that are endemic to Hawaii. The park rangers are always helpful. It is a unique place that is a wonder to see. Bring your camera and take lots of pictures!
3 families found this helpful
"Must see to believe"
If you go anywhere off the beach, go see the summit of Haleakala. The attached map is a bit misleading; you have to drive ten or so miles up a winding road (the only hazard being bicyclists). At the top there are literally breathtaking views of the crater, which is NOT the ugly black lava you might expect; it's a collection of smaller cones and ridges that look like they were painted in greens, reds, and blues. Even preschoolers will be impressed. There are silversword plants up there, and wild nene geese. If you're adventurous, while everyone's jet-lagged get up there early and watch the sunrise. It's a little chilly (downright cold, early morning), and if you only see clouds when you get there, just stick around a few minutes. Costs $10 a carload for a three day pass, but I think it's well worth it.
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