Haleakalā National Park
National Park · Hawaii

Haleakalā National Park

Photo: Niagara66 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Haleakalā rises 10,023 feet above Maui, with a huge volcanic crater, rare silversword plants and famous sunrises above the clouds. The summit district has trails into the crater like Sliding Sands, and the separate Kīpahulu district near Hāna has waterfalls and the Pools of ʻOheʻo. A sunrise reservation is required, and the summit is near freezing before dawn, so bring warm layers.

Good to know

Tickets
The park charges an entry fee per vehicle, covered by the America the Beautiful pass. Check nps.gov for current rates. A separate sunrise reservation on Recreation.gov is required to drive up between 3 and 7 a.m.
Time needed
Half a day for sunrise and the summit; a full day to add a crater hike. Kīpahulu is a separate day via the Hāna road.
Best time
All year. Sunrise and sunset are the highlights; clear skies are more likely in the dry season, April to October.
Getting there
The summit is about 1 hour from Kula and 2 hours from Kahului. Nearest major airport is Kahului on Maui, about 2 hours' drive to the summit.

Where to stay nearby

Gateway towns with hotels and food, close to the park entrances:
Kula, Hawaii
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Haleakalā National Park questions

Do I need a reservation for sunrise at Haleakalā?

Yes. Book a vehicle sunrise reservation on Recreation.gov, released 60 days ahead and again 2 days ahead. Without one you can still drive up after 7 a.m.

What is the best hike in Haleakalā?

Sliding Sands (Keoneheʻeheʻe) Trail drops into the crater for moonscape views. On the Hāna side, the Pīpīwai Trail leads through a bamboo forest to Waimoku Falls.

Where should I stay to visit Haleakalā?

Kula and Upcountry Maui are closest to the summit. Many visitors stay in Kahului, Paia or Kihei and drive up.

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