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Review & FAQ:
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Why do visitors go to the summit of Haleakala?
- Most visitors head to the summit to see the sunrise, go hiking, horseback riding, or biking down the main road.
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How long does it take to drive to the summit?
- The drive to the summit takes 1.5 hours from Kahului Airport.
- If you are staying in resort areas such as Kapalua, Kihei, and Wailea, it will take about 2.5 hours one way.
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Are there accommodations near the summit?
- Yes, accommodations are available closer to the summit, such as the rustic Kula Lodge.
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What should I know about the weather at the summit?
- The weather at the summit is unpredictable. There is no way of knowing what the conditions will be like by the time you reach the top.
- You may drive through clouds and arrive at a sunny summit, or experience rain the entire way up and down.
- No weather forecasts are available for the summit due to rapid weather changes.
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Are there hiking trails at the summit?
- Yes! Several trails range from quick 10-minute walks to full-day and overnight trips.
- The high altitude makes breathing more difficult, so plan your hikes accordingly.
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How cold does it get at the summit?
- Temperatures range between 32°F and 65°F, but the wind can drop temperatures below freezing.
- If you are planning to watch the sunrise, bring a warm jacket.
- On average, the temperature drops about 3°F for every 1,000-foot rise in elevation, making the 10,023-foot summit around 30°F cooler than the coast.
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Where are the visitor centers located?
- Headquarters Visitor Center – Located at 7,000 feet.
- Haleakala Visitor Center – Near the summit.
- Kipahulu Visitor Center – Located on the coast.
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Who can I contact for more information?
- For summit-related questions, call 808-572-4400.
- For information about the coastal area, call 808-248-7375.
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What is the drive up Haleakala like?
- The drive up takes about 2.5 hours one way from popular resort areas such as Kapalua, Napili, Ka?anapali, Kihei, and Wailea.
- The summit is 1.5 hours from Kahului Airport.
- The road is well-maintained but becomes curvy near Kula and stays that way until the peak.
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What can I see along the drive?
- As you head upcountry, you'll notice the lush slopes of Haleakala.
- There are many forests, beautiful plants, and several botanical gardens open to the public.
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Where can I stop for lunch?
- One of the most popular spots is the Kula Lodge Restaurant (808-878-1535), which offers a beautiful view.
- Reservations are recommended as tour buses frequently stop here.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐