Haleakala National Park Sunrise: Crater Hikes and The Road to Hana

• 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.
• 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.
• Are there accommodations near the summit?
  • Yes, accommodations are available closer to the summit, such as the rustic Kula Lodge.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

• Where can I find adventure vacation ideas in Maui?
  • If you are looking for adventure vacation ideas in Maui, head to Haleakala National Park.
  • The scenery near the summit is incredible, complete with cindercones, volcanic rock and native plants.
  • The crater area is huge: 3,000 feet deep, 7.5 miles long and 2.5 miles wide.
• Are there hiking trails at the summit?
  • The summit area has over 30 miles of hiking trails, ranging from 10-minute walks to overnight trips.
  • Arrive early to watch the sunrise at the summit before going on a hike.
• What is the Sliding Sands Trail?
  • We followed the Sliding Sands Trail for about 45 minutes down into the crater.
  • The views were just incredible.
  • There were huge cindercones in the distance and the sun reflected off the sand which varied in color from different shades of red to pitch black.
  • We could see the famous Hawaiian silverswords dotting the landscape, as well as a few other bushes and native plants.
• Where does the Sliding Sands Trail start?
  • The Sliding Sands Trail (also called Keoneheehee Trail) starts at the bulletin board by the entrance to the Haleakala Visitor Center parking lot.
  • The trail starts at 9,700 feet and descends 2,800 feet into the crater.
• Is the Sliding Sands Trail difficult?
  • The hike is extremely strenuous, especially on the way back up the mountain.
  • You'll quickly notice the lower concentration of oxygen in each breath.
  • It's much more difficult to hike at such a high altitude and the air is very dry.
• How does high altitude affect hiking?
  • At the elevation of 10,000 feet, hiking is very strenuous unless you are used to the high altitude.
  • We also noticed that the air was very dry and were grateful for the extra water we packed when planning the hike.
  • The way back up the Sliding Sands Trail took almost twice as long as heading down and the strain of hiking at high elevation was even more noticeable hiking up the mountain.
• What should I bring when hiking in Haleakala National Park?
  • In addition to water and sunscreen, pack some warm clothing because the weather can change quite rapidly from sunny to rainy and foggy.
  • It's a good idea to bring some food with you since there is no food sold in the park.
• Where can I get more information before hiking?
  • Before heading out, stop at the Headquarters Visitor Center or at the Haleakala Visitor Center to pick up a trail map and ask about guided hikes which are sometimes offered.

• Why is Haleakala’s landscape unique?
  • Haleakala is home to one of the most unique landscapes on the planet, complete with towering cindercones, red and black sand, and wide open views.
• What makes sunrise at Haleakala special?
  • At sunrise, unpredictable things happen. Clouds shaped like a head of a woman are backlit by the rising sun.
  • A gentle golden color illuminates the harsh rock.
  • A bright orb rises above the clouds to start a new day.
  • This is why thousands of people wake up early and take the long drive up Haleakala to witness the event.
• What is the weather like at the summit?
  • The weather at the summit is unpredictable and changes quickly.
  • Some visitors will get a clear view of the crater and the rest of Maui.
  • Others may see the sunrise just above the clouds or find themselves in a thick rainy cloud.
• How should I prepare for the sunrise experience?
  • Dress warmly, as mornings at 10,000 feet are chilly and windy.
  • Arrive early to secure a parking spot, as this is the busiest time of day.
  • There is no food, clothing, or gas available in the park.
• What time does the sun rise at Haleakala?
  • The sun rises earlier in the summer than in the winter.
  • On January 1, the sun rises at 6:56 AM.
  • On July 1, it rises more than an hour earlier, at 5:41 AM.
  • Exact sunrise times are posted on the National Park Service website (www.nps.gov/hale).
• Where can I watch the sunrise?
  • Most visitors head to the Visitor Center or the summit.
  • There is a small structure at the summit with panoramic windows.
  • The Visitor Center does not open until 7:30 AM.
• How long is my admission ticket valid?
  • Admission is valid for 7 days.
  • Visitors can stop at the park headquarters shortly after the entrance station to get more information.
• Are there gas stations or food available in the park?
  • No, there are no gas stations or food services in the park.
  • Ensure you have enough gas and food before making the drive up to 10,000 feet.
• Where are the visitor centers located?
  • There are two visitor centers near the summit and one near Hana in East Maui.
  • Haleakala Visitor Center is located at 9,700 feet.
    • It is open year-round from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM.
    • It has restrooms but no phone, food, or gas.
    • It is located ten miles from the park entrance and nine miles from the Headquarters Visitor Center.
    • The drive from the park entrance takes 30 minutes.
  • Headquarters Visitor Center is located one mile from the park entrance at an elevation of 7,000 feet.
    • It is open year-round from 8 AM to 4 PM.
    • Inside, there is a replica of the famous Haleakala silversword plant.
    • There is no food or gas available in the park.
    • For more information, call the visitor center at 808-572-4400.

• Where is O'heo Gulch located?
  • O'heo Gulch is a beautiful coastal area located several miles from Hana on the eastern side of Maui.
• What can visitors see at O'heo Gulch?
  • A path leads past waterfalls and pools of water.
  • The pools, often called the Seven Sacred Pools (although there are more than seven), are a highlight of the area.
• Can you swim in the pools at O'heo Gulch?
  • The pools are sometimes open for swimming.
  • During periods of heavy rain, the National Park Service closes them for safety, but they can still be viewed from the trail.
• Are there hiking trails at O'heo Gulch?
  • Yes! Several hiking trails in the area take visitors through lush forests to beautiful waterfalls.
  • If you are short on time, follow the Kuloa Point Trail from the visitor center for half a mile.
  • The trail includes views of Hawaiian habitation sites, the ocean, waterfalls, and several large pools.
• How long does it take to drive to O'heo Gulch?
  • The drive takes about 2.5 hours from Kahului Airport along the curvy Hana Highway.
  • If you are staying in Kapalua, Napili, Ka'anapali, Kihei, or Wailea, add another hour to your estimated driving time.
• Should I visit O'heo Gulch on a day trip?
  • A day trip does not allow much time to explore the area or swim in the pools, as you will need to complete the 3.5-hour drive back.
  • A better option is to plan on staying in Hana for a day or two to fully enjoy the experience.

• What is the temperature like in Kipahulu?
  • Temperatures are much warmer here than at the summit: in the 70s and 80s during the day, but can drop quickly with rain showers and winds.
  • Nighttime lows are in the mid-60s to 70s.
• Why are the pools sometimes closed for swimming?
  • The pools are closed for swimming during periods of heavy rain because flash floods are such a danger.
  • Kipahulu receives an average of 187 inches of rain each year.
• Where can you eat in Hana?
  • Once you reach the town, you can have lunch at Travassa Hana or at Hana Ranch, which also has a take-out window if you are in a hurry.
• Can you fly to Hana instead of driving?
  • If you prefer to fly, Pacific Wing Airline offers daily flights to Hana, either from Honolulu, Oahu, or Kahului, Maui.
• What happens to the highway after reaching Hana?
  • After you reach Hana, the highway becomes even more like a footpath than a road and heads to the Kipahulu Visitor Center at Haleakala National Park.
• Do people enjoy the drive to Hana?
  • Not everyone gets excited at the thought of a three and a half hour drive.
  • We did hear some people complain that they didn't like the drive, but the majority of travelers we met thoroughly enjoyed it.
• What makes Hana Bay Beach a great stop?
  • The road passes next to the Hana Bay Beach, which is popular for swimming, picnics, and outrigger canoeing.
  • The bay and its black sand is the result of lava eroding and washing into the ocean from a nearby stream.
  • This area is well protected and is usually a very safe place to swim.
• What activities can you do at Hana Bay?
  • It is the perfect spot for picnics and water activities such as outrigger canoe races.
  • You can often see canoe clubs practicing this ancient Hawaiian sport in the late afternoon.
  • Hana Bay on Maui has benches for picnics, restrooms, and a snack bar.
• What is another great stop along the Hana Highway?
  • Another great stop along Hana Highway is Hamoa Beach.

• Are there only seven pools at O'heo Gulch?
  • No, there aren't just seven pools—there are quite a few more.
• Are there visitor facilities at O'heo Gulch?
  • Yes, there is a visitor center and several marked trails maintained by the National Park Service.
• Which trail leads to the pools and waterfalls?
  • Follow the Kuloa Point Trail near the coast to reach the series of pools and waterfalls.
• Is swimming allowed in the pools?
  • Swimming is at your own risk, and there are no lifeguards on duty.
  • During heavy rains, the National Park Service closes off the area to prevent injuries from flash floods.
• Is food available in the park?
  • No, there is no food available in the park.
  • It's a good idea to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy after a swim.
  • Hana Ranch, which you'll pass on your way through Hana, has a great take-out menu.
• What is the easiest trail to the Pools of O'heo?
  • The Kuloa Point Trail is the easiest trail from the parking lot to the Pools of O'heo.
  • The trail loops for about half a mile, passing the ocean and going slightly uphill near the waterfalls.
• What can I see along the Kuloa Point Trail?
  • You will pass Hawaiian habitation sites, a grove of hala trees, the ocean, and beautiful waterfalls.
• Are flash floods common in the area?
  • Yes, flash floods are likely in this area.
  • Swimming is at your own risk, and there are no lifeguards on duty.
• How can I get information about the weather and park conditions?
  • Weather predictions are not possible, but you can call the Kipahulu Visitor Center for information about the coastal area at 808-248-7375.
• What are the Kipahulu Visitor Center hours?
  • The visitor center is open year-round from 9 AM to 5 PM.
  • It offers interpretive exhibits on the cultural and natural heritage of the Kipahulu area.

• How do you get to the Seven Sacred Pools?
  • You've probably already heard about the famous Hana Highway, its one-way bridges and yield signs.
  • To get to the Seven Sacred Pools, you'll have to drive the whole length of the highway.
  • There are many scenic stops along the way.
• How long does it take to drive to O'heo Gulch?
  • If you are staying in Kapalua, Napili, Ka'anapali, Kihei or Wailea, the drive will take about 3.5 hours each way without stopping.
  • Even if you get started early in the morning, you won't have much time for sightseeing once you get to O'heo Gulch.
  • If you can, plan on spending a day or two in Hana. It's beautiful and incredibly peaceful.
• Where can you stay in Hana?
  • In addition to Travaasa Hana, there are several rentals available in town.
• What is the Hana Highway?
  • The Hana Highway is a 60 mile stretch of road that connects the small town of Hana to the rest of Maui.
  • The road to Hana is not really a highway. It's narrow and patched together with one-way and some two-way bridges.
  • There are 54 bridges along the way, apparently. But can anyone be really sure?
  • It's this "highway" that keeps Hana so isolated.
• What can you see along the Hana Highway?
  • The road features beautiful views of the coastline, waterfalls and tropical plants.
• How popular is the Hana Highway?
  • Many visitors to Maui (about 3,000 each day), take a day trip just to drive along the road.
  • The drive from Kahului Airport takes about two hours.
• Does traffic slow down on the Hana Highway?
  • Traffic frequently comes to a stop near the bridges as tour vans pull over and let passengers look at waterfalls and plants.
• Where should you fill up on gas before driving the Hana Highway?
  • Before you head there, be sure to fill up your car with gas in Paia.
• Can you swim in the pools along the coastal part of Haleakala?
  • The coastal part of Haleakala features beautiful waterfalls and pools of water where you can go for a swim.
  • The pools are closed off if there is a lot of rain.

• What is the easiest way to drive the road to Hana?
  • The easiest way to drive the road is to spend at least one night in Hana - that way you won't have to drive for the entire day.
  • If you do plan on doing the whole drive in one day than you should get an early start, particularly if you are starting out from West Maui (Kapalua, Napili, Lahaina).
• How long does the drive to Hana take?
  • The drive from Kahului (the Main Airport) to Hana takes about 3 and a half hours but the time goes by really fast.
• Where can you stop for lunch in Hana?
  • Once you reach Hana you can stop for lunch.
  • The Hana Ranch has a take-out window if you want to grab some food for a picnic in Haleakala National Park.
• How long does it take to reach Kipahulu Visitor Center from Hana?
  • From Hana, it will take another 45 minutes to reach the Kipahulu Visitor Center at Haleakala.
• What can you do at Haleakala National Park?
  • Once you reach the Park entrance, you can park and take a short walk to the Seven Sacred Pools.
• Where can you stop on the way back from Hana?
  • On the way back to your hotel you can stop at Hamoa Beach for a swim.
• Is there an alternative to driving the Hana Highway?
  • If driving for more than three hours one way is not really your idea of a fun vacation than you can fly over the highway and Haleakala National Park on a Helicopter Tour.
  • A helicopter tour is a great way to see Maui.
• What are the top driving tips for the Hana Highway?
  • It may sound really obvious but the drivers should keep their eyes on the road. Don't get distracted by the scenery, if you want a better look just pull your car over and take all the time you need.
  • When you do pull over make sure that other cars can still get around you safely. Again, it may sound obvious but we saw a couple park their car on a one lane bridge and get out to pose for a photograph.
  • The road gets really narrow in places and the locals (as well as some tourists) drive the highway very fast, so watch out on the sharp turns and single lane bridges.
  • Be considerate of the local people. You may be on vacation but they are trying to get to work so pull over and let them pass if you are driving slower than they are.
  • Last but not least, get good directions. There are plenty of road signs and the actual highway has almost no exits that aren't driveways but some people do manage to get lost. One couple we spoke with said the drive to Hana took them 18 hours. (Apparently they went the wrong way around the entire Island of Maui... not the best part of their vacation.) So just ask your hotel concierge for directions. Be sure to get a good road map when you rent your car, they're free.

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