Haleakala National Park

Haleakala National Park is an American national park located on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The park is named after Haleakal, a dormant volcano inside its boundaries, and it encompasses 33,265 acres (52.0 sq mi; 134.6 km2), of which 24,719 acres (38.6 sq mi; 100.0 km2) is forest. At 10,023 feet above sea level, this dormant volcano provides a stunning backdrop for a variety of landscapes and skyscapes. 

In Hawaiian, Haleakal means “home of the sun,” and legend has it that the demigod Maui lassoed the sun as he stood on the volcano’s top, slowing its descent to make the day endure longer. Haleakala was once part of Hawaii National Park, which was established in 1916 and included the volcanoes Mauna Loa and Kilauea on the island of Hawaii.  

Best Time to Visit 

For a decent spot, try to be at the Haleakal Visitor Center no later than a half hour before the sun rises. The color of the sky and clouds before sunrise is breathtaking. The sun rises as early as 5:38 AM in the summer and as late as 6:55 AM in the winter. Seeing the sunrise or sunset from nearly 10,000 feet above sea level is one of Maui’s most remarkable experiences.

Summer is typically less expensive for tourists because it is the low season. Summer is the most affordable time of year to visit Haleakala and the greatest time to visit Maui in general. The park’s busiest season lasts from December to February, and the weather is ideal at this time of year, with temperatures in the low 80s (upper 20C). 

How to get there

If you are considering a visit here, the best thing you can do is organize your trip so that you have the finest experience possible. Depending on where you start on Maui, it might take up to two hours to travel the Haleakal Highway (HI 37) and then up the winding Haleakal Crater Road leading to the summit of Haleakal. 

It’s an early start, but the payoff is definitely worth it. To get to the Haleakal Visitors Center at 9,740 feet, drive past the Park Visitors Center at 7,000 feet. There are no gas stations or restaurants in or near the Summit District. So, you better be prepared for this. That’s why planning is important before visiting the national park. 

Entrance and Fees

When accessing Haleakala National Park, all visitors must buy a recreational usage pass. Passes are non-transferable and good for three days from the date of purchase. The park allows access to Haleakala National Park for private, non-commercial vehicles and all occupants, including the Summit and Kapahulu areas. 

Fees

• Private Vehicle will be $30, valid for three days
• Motor will be $25, valid for three days
• Bicycle will be $15 also valid for three days

Be sure to check the official site for the latest hours and rates. 

If you arrive in Haleakala National Park’s Summit or Kapahulu District and the admission station is closed, you can use the automated self-pay machine located next to the entrance station. Credit cards are the only payment methods accepted by the machines.

The entire public, including overseas visitors, can purchase annual passes. Passes are non-transferable and good for 12 months from the date of purchase. Regulations of the National Park Service allow school groups and other legitimate national and international educational institutions to obtain a waiver of park entrance fees if the visit is for educational purposes.

Activities in Haleakala National Park

• View the Sunrise from Haleakala – One of the most popular activities and reasons for tourists to visit the site. Make sure to arrive early to catch the beautiful scenery.
• Hike – You may enjoy hiking there. The Sliding Sands trail is about a 5-mile round trip that takes around three hours to complete.
• Go to Haleakala National Park Visitors Center – You can pay entrance fees here. Information that you need to know before hiking is available in this area. There is also restroom here. 

There’s a lot of exciting and interesting to do at the Haleakala National Park. Make sure to give yourself enough time to do these activities for your visit to be worthwhile. 

Tips to keep in mind 

• Make an appointment – Online reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance and are only valid for the day reserved. 
• Prioritize safety – Stay on the route and inside authorized viewing areas. Always practice safety precautions if you are within the area to avoid unforeseen accidents that may occur. You will be at high heights at the Summit, so slow down, drink plenty of water, and take your time.
• Dress appropriately – Environment conditions can change fast and without warning, so be prepared for anything. 
• Bring food and water – The park only has few amenities so better be prepare with packed lunches and snacks. 

• Drive with caution – Drive with caution, especially at night. Always follow park speed limits to protect yourself, others, and wildlife safe. Also, keep your car full tank for there are no gas stations there. 

• Avoid fog – Best thing to do is arrive early to avoid the fog. 

• Avoid wildlife – Drive carefully, especially as the road is windy and you may encounter several blind spots along the way.

• Have plenty of time – Make out the most of your time for your trip to be memorable. 

Wrapping it up

Visiting places like this may take some time, but preparation is essential. Make sure you have everything you’ll need for the vacation and that you’ve planned out the activities you’ll undertake ahead of time.

Remember that you will be visiting a location with changing weather, so be prepared for this but the scenery and majesty of the top will mesmerize you. Just always keep in mind the things that you need to prepare, and the things you need to do to make your trip memorable and worthy.