When I think back on my trip to Maui, one of the places that left me absolutely in awe was Haleakalā National Park. From the moment I started driving up the windy roads to the summit, I felt like I was stepping into another world, and by the end of the day, I knew this park was an absolute must for anyone visiting Maui. I LOVED Haleakalā National Park and hopefully I can convince you to add it to your Maui itinerary :).
The Ultimate Guide to Haleakalā National Park: Sunrise, Sliding Sands & Halemauʻu Trails
Getting To Haleakalā National Park
Haleakalā National Park is located on the eastern side of Maui. The drive up to the Summit is an experience in itself with winding roads, a ton of switchbacks, and constant elevation gain as you climb above the clouds to ~10,000 feet!
- Drive time: From Kahului, it takes about 1.5–2 hours to reach the summit. From Lahaina, Kāʻanapali, or Wailea, plan on closer to 2.5–3 hours.
- Entrance fee: $30 per vehicle, valid for 3 days.
Reservations: If you want to enter the park before 7 AM (for sunrise), you must make a reservation online in advance, and the spots fill up quickly. Reservations open up 60 days ahead.
Sunrise at Haleakalā
If you are willing to set your alarm clock early, you will be able to see an amazing sunrise above the clouds at Haleakalā!
What to Expect:
- Cold & Windy Weather: Temperatures at the summit can drop into the 30s or 40s°F, even in summer. Pack layers, a hat, and gloves.
- Crowds: This is a popular activity, but the atmosphere is still peaceful.
- Cultural Significance: For Native Hawaiians, this is a sacred place, and you may even hear traditional chants or songs.
- Unforgettable Views: The moment the sun peeks above the clouds feels surreal.
Notes:
- Remember, you have to make a reservation in advance if you arrive at the park before 7 am.
- Aim to arrive at the summit parking lot at least 30–45 minutes before sunrise so you can find parking, walk to the lookout, and get settled in the dark.
If waking up at 3 am is not your thing, don’t worry, Haleakalā is worth a visit at any time of day. The landscapes and hikes also make it unforgettable.
Hiking in Haleakalā National Park
I absolutely loved hiking in Haleakalā! The landscapes are so unique from each other that it almost feels like you are visiting multiple national parks in one day.
I would highly recommend hiking both the Sliding Sands Trail and the Halemauʻu Trail. The best way to get a full feel of the park is to combine the two trails. So, if you are up for a longer hike (~11 miles), you can combine the two trails into an epic point-to-point hike.
If 11 miles sounds like too much, you can always do shorter out-and-back hikes on both trails and still get a taste of each unique landscape.
How to Combine the Two: Sliding Sands + Halemauʻu Loop: To combine the two trails, you will hike ~11 miles point-to-point. Logistically, park your car at the Halemauʻu Trailhead and then hitchhike or arrange a ride up to Sliding Sands Trailhead to begin your hike. That way, your car is waiting for you at the end.
Sliding Sands Trail (Keonehe‘ehe‘e Trailhead)
- Length: Up to 11 miles (one-way if combined with Halemauʻu), or a shorter out-and-back hike
- Landscape: Vast, open volcanic terrain with views into the crater
- Difficulty: Strenuous, steep descent (and steep climb back up if you are just doing the out-and-back option)
The Sliding Sands Trail was like stepping onto another planet. The trail begins at 9,740 feet near the summit and descends into the crater with switchbacks and wide, sandy slopes. Even if you only hike a mile or two, the views are incredible, with colorful volcanic rock formations and a surreal, moonscape feel.
My experience: When I hiked Sliding Sands, the weather was windy and rainy with limited visibility, and I still loved it! That should tell you how special this trail is. Just know the weather can be unpredictable, so come prepared!
Halemauʻu Trail
- Length: 7.4 miles round-trip, or ~11 miles if combined with Sliding Sands
- Landscape: Lush vegetation, rocky ridges, and dramatic switchbacks
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous, with steep switchbacks
The Halemauʻu Trail is completely different from Sliding Sands. Instead of volcanic terrain, you will find greenery and rocky cliffs. The trail also leads down into the crater via steep switchbacks, and even just hiking a few miles will leave you amazed!
Spending The Night: Backpacking into the Crater
For those who want a little more adventure, you can backpack into the crater and spend the night. This gives you the chance to experience Haleakalā in such a unique way. It feels quiet, remote, and you have a sky full of stars.
- Popular Route: Many overnight hikers do the Sliding Sands to Halemauʻu route over two days, staying overnight in the crater.
- Permits are required and can be reserved through the National Park Service.
- Cabins & Campsites are rustic wilderness cabins (Hōlua, Kapalaoa, and Palikū), or designated campsites.
Tips for Visiting Haleakalā National Park
- Explore the National Park’s website to familiarize yourself with it and be in the know for any updates.
- Dress in layers: Temperatures at the summit can be near freezing, and you might experience wind and rain.
- Bring food & water: There are no food services at the summit. Pack snacks, meals, and a lot of water.
- Altitude awareness: At over 10,000 feet, you may feel lightheaded or short of breath, so make sure to take your time on the hikes.
- Enjoy! Make sure to soak in all the beauty and unique landscapes!
Haleakalā National Park was easily one of the highlights of my Maui trip. For hikers, nature lovers, and adventurers, please put Haleakalā National Park in your Maui itinerary. If you are looking for how to combine this activity in your larger Maui itinerary, check out my 5-day Maui itinerary here.
Follow for more on social media and email me with any questions!