Haleakala is Maui’s youngest volcano But a volcanic eruption hasn’t happened in hundreds of years. The proud Summit Stands Tall overlooking the island. From its peak, you can catch amazing sunrise or sunset views. But that’s not all there is to explore in Haleakala National Park. There are two distinct districts in this National Park. Read on to get our top five tips for getting the most out of this beautiful unique National Park area.
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- Decide if you want to go to the summit in the morning or afternoon. if you’re ready for a very early start one of the most famous things to do is to watch the sunrise from the top of the summit. to schedule this you need to make reservations in advance through recreation.gov. you can get a sunrise checklist sent right to your inbox just click here. Sunset is also possible and many would say just as beautiful. Whichever you choose leave plenty of time for entry as there can be a line of cars at the entrance and often only one person staffing the entrance booth. Be sure to get our Sunrise checklist in order to get the best tips and tricks for making your reservation.
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- Plan for stargazing. whether you choose to go for a sunrise or sunset be sure to be there when the stars are still out. There is an amazing stargazing opportunity at The Summit. You will want a flashlight or headlamp, as dark areas are not well-lit. Be courteous and be sure you’re using a red or green light so as not to disturb the star-gazing of others. You’ll be able to appreciate the Milky Way and contemplate your space in the universe.
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- Dress in layers. if you will be there in the dark be prepared for wind and chilly temperatures at The Summit. Think the 30s and 40s F, not the 70s you can expect at the beach. Pack a jacket, a beanie, hand warmers, and a blanket.
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- Take advantage of the overlooks. Leleiwi Lookout gives one of the best views of the volcanic crater around mile marker 17 on Haleakala Hwy. Sometimes the crater collects clouds and mist but don’t be disappointed because if the sun is behind you it can cast your shadow onto the mist and you might be able to see your shadow surrounded by a rainbow. Another great spot is the Kalahaku Overlook. You can appreciate the lush greenery of Maui but also grab another look at the crater.
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- Stay and hike. This National Park isn’t just about Celestial wonders. You can enjoy hiking and each district of the park with hikes for all skill levels from the summit to the Visitor Center parking lot you can take an easy hike on Pa Ka’ oao just 0.4 miles with only 100 ft of elevation gain to view the crater. Or take the Sliding Sands Trail, a more robust 4-mile one-way hike to the crater floor. Up for more of a challenge you can combine that with the Halemau’o trail for a more strenuous hike of 11 miles. For a landscape a bit greener than the Mars-like terrain of the summit, you take the Hosmer Grove nature trail at mile marker 10.5 on the Haleakala Hwy. This short hike, just a half-mile long, is a showcase of the Hawaiian struggle between native and non-native plants on the island. In 1910 Ralph Hosmer planted these trees here and the Park Service works hard to keep them from spreading into native species nearby. This is also a spot for bird watching. In the Kipahulu District hike the famous Pipiwai trail, about 2 miles each way and approximately 650 feet elevation gain. You can enter the trailhead at mile marker 42. Hike to Ohe’o Gulch to see one of the most beautiful spots highlighting multiple waterfalls and pools. Consider spending the night in Hana so you can get up early and enjoy these popular spots without the crowds. If you’ve already purchased a park pass when visiting the summit be sure to save your receipt and show it again at the entrance to this section of the park.
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The Haleakala National Park is a must-see for any visitor to Maui. With two distinct districts, there’s plenty to explore in this beautiful and unique park. Our top five tips will help you make the most of your visit and see everything this amazing park has to offer.
Be sure to check out our blog every week for more travel tips that will help bring your dreams of exploring Hawaii to life! If you are looking for activities specific to Haleakala National Park check out our detailed post Visiting Haleakala National Park: 9 Amazing Things to Do.
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