{"id":161071,"date":"2026-05-14T18:09:18","date_gmt":"2026-05-14T16:09:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/?p=161071"},"modified":"2026-05-15T13:29:35","modified_gmt":"2026-05-15T11:29:35","slug":"haleakala-national-park-maui-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Haleakal\u0101 National Park, Maui: Guide \u2014 15 Things to See and Do"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>You&#8217;re standing on the edge of a crater at 10,000 feet above sea level, surrounded by absolute silence, with a landscape that looks like the surface of Mars stretching out beneath your feet. The sun is just cresting above the clouds and you&#8217;re wondering whether you&#8217;ve somehow died and been transported to another world. <strong>That&#8217;s exactly what sunrise at Haleakal\u0101 National Park Maui looks like \u2014 and exactly how I felt when I stood there for the first time with Luk\u00e1\u0161, my jaw literally on the floor. \ud83d\ude05<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Haleakal\u0101 National Park on Maui is without a doubt one of the most magical places we&#8217;ve visited in Hawaii \u2014 and honestly, one of the most magical places we&#8217;ve been to, full stop. This massive shield volcano, whose name means &#8220;House of the Sun&#8221; in Hawaiian, offers everything from a lunar landscape at the summit to stunning bamboo forests and waterfalls that will leave you gasping. And the best part? You&#8217;ll experience more contrasts in one place than you&#8217;d normally need a whole week of travelling to find elsewhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article you&#8217;ll find <strong>15 things to see and do in Haleakal\u0101 National Park<\/strong> \u2014 from the legendary summit sunrise and the most beautiful hikes to tips on stargazing, food and practical advice that will save you time and money. I&#8217;ll tell you when to go, how to get up there, where to stay on Maui and how much it all costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-par-na-summitu.jpg\" alt=\"Couple at the summit of Haleakal\u0101 volcano above the clouds\" class=\"wp-image-160682\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-par-na-summitu.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-par-na-summitu-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-par-na-summitu-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-par-na-summitu-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-par-na-summitu-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_83 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#TLDR\" >TL;DR<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#When_to_go_and_how_to_get_to_Haleakala_National_Park\" >When to go and how to get to Haleakal\u0101 National Park<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Weather_by_park_area\" >Weather by park area<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#How_to_get_to_the_summit\" >How to get to the summit<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#How_to_get_to_Kipahulu\" >How to get to K\u012bpahulu<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Entrance_fees_and_reservations\" >Entrance fees and reservations<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Where_to_stay_on_Maui_how_much_it_costs\" >Where to stay on Maui + how much it costs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Kula_Upcountry_Maui\" >Kula \/ Upcountry Maui<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Pa%CA%BBia\" >P\u0101\u02bbia<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Kahului\" >Kahului<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#How_much_does_a_Maui_holiday_cost_budget_for_two_for_a_week\" >How much does a Maui holiday cost (budget for two for a week)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Summit_Haleakala_6_experiences_you_cant_miss\" >Summit Haleakal\u0101: 6 experiences you can&#8217;t miss<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#1_Sunrise_at_the_summit_%E2%80%94_the_most_iconic_experience_on_Maui\" >1. Sunrise at the summit \u2014 the most iconic experience on Maui<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#2_Sliding_Sands_Trail_Keonehe%CA%BBehe%CA%BBe_%E2%80%94_hike_into_the_heart_of_the_crater\" >2. Sliding Sands Trail (Keonehe\u02bbehe\u02bbe) \u2014 hike into the heart of the crater<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#3_Halemauu_Trail_%E2%80%94_views_and_switchbacks\" >3. Halemau&#8217;u Trail \u2014 views and switchbacks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#4_Silversword_%E2%80%94_a_rare_plant_that_only_grows_here\" >4. Silversword \u2014 a rare plant that only grows here<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#5_Stargazing_%E2%80%94_stars_like_nowhere_else\" >5. Stargazing \u2014 stars like nowhere else<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#6_Biking_down_Haleakala_%E2%80%94_a_ride_from_10000_feet\" >6. Biking down Haleakal\u0101 \u2014 a ride from 10,000 feet<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Kipahulu_and_Pipiwai_Trail_5_tips_for_the_coastal_section_of_the_park\" >K\u012bpahulu and Pipiwai Trail: 5 tips for the coastal section of the park<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#7_Pipiwai_Trail_%E2%80%94_through_a_bamboo_forest_to_a_dream_waterfall\" >7. Pipiwai Trail \u2014 through a bamboo forest to a dream waterfall<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#8_Pools_of_%CA%BBOhe%CA%BBo_Seven_Sacred_Pools_%E2%80%94_natural_pools_by_the_ocean\" >8. Pools of \u02bb\u014che\u02bbo (Seven Sacred Pools) \u2014 natural pools by the ocean<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#9_Waimoku_Falls_%E2%80%94_a_400-foot_waterfall\" >9. Waimoku Falls \u2014 a 400-foot waterfall<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#10_Kuloa_Point_Trail_%E2%80%94_ocean_viewpoint\" >10. Kuloa Point Trail \u2014 ocean viewpoint<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#11_Hana_Highway_%E2%80%94_the_journey_is_the_destination\" >11. H\u0101na Highway \u2014 the journey is the destination<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Tips_for_adventurous_travellers_4_bonus_experiences\" >Tips for adventurous travellers: 4 bonus experiences<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#12_Overnight_in_the_crater_%E2%80%94_cabins_and_campsites\" >12. Overnight in the crater \u2014 cabins and campsites<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#13_Full-day_crater_traverse_%E2%80%94_Sliding_Sands_Halemauu\" >13. Full-day crater traverse \u2014 Sliding Sands + Halemau&#8217;u<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#14_Spotting_nene_%E2%80%94_the_worlds_rarest_goose\" >14. Spotting n\u0113n\u0113 \u2014 the world&#8217;s rarest goose<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#15_Sunset_at_the_summit_%E2%80%94_less_famous_but_equally_stunning\" >15. Sunset at the summit \u2014 less famous, but equally stunning<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#What_to_eat_and_drink_on_Maui_and_what_to_bring_to_Haleakala\" >What to eat and drink on Maui (and what to bring to Haleakal\u0101)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Food_to_bring_on_a_hike\" >Food to bring on a hike<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Where_to_eat_on_Maui\" >Where to eat on Maui<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Practical_tips_and_advice\" >Practical tips and advice<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#What_to_pack_for_Haleakala\" >What to pack for Haleakal\u0101<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Car_hire\" >Car hire<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Mobile_internet\" >Mobile internet<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Travel_insurance\" >Travel insurance<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Frequently_asked_questions_about_Haleakala_National_Park_FAQ\" >Frequently asked questions about Haleakal\u0101 National Park (FAQ)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Do_I_need_a_reservation_for_sunrise_at_Haleakala\" >Do I need a reservation for sunrise at Haleakal\u0101?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#How_much_does_it_cost_to_enter_Haleakala_National_Park\" >How much does it cost to enter Haleakal\u0101 National Park?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Can_you_drive_directly_from_the_summit_to_Kipahulu\" >Can you drive directly from the summit to K\u012bpahulu?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#What_should_I_wear_to_the_Haleakala_summit\" >What should I wear to the Haleakal\u0101 summit?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#How_long_does_Pipiwai_Trail_take\" >How long does Pipiwai Trail take?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Is_Haleakala_suitable_for_families_with_children\" >Is Haleakal\u0101 suitable for families with children?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/haleakala-national-park-maui-guide\/#Can_you_see_stars_at_Haleakala\" >Can you see stars at Haleakal\u0101?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TLDR\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TL_DR\"><\/span>TL;DR<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Haleakal\u0101 National Park<\/strong> stretches from the volcanic summit (10,023 ft \/ 3,055 m) down to the coast at K\u012bpahulu \u2014 essentially two completely different worlds within one park.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sunrise at the summit is an unforgettable experience<\/strong> \u2014 but you must book a reservation in advance on recreation.gov. Without one, you won&#8217;t be allowed up. The reservation costs $1 per car.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Park entrance fee<\/strong> is $30 per car (valid for 3 days) or free with an annual America the Beautiful pass ($80).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Best hikes:<\/strong> Sliding Sands Trail (crater), Pipiwai Trail (bamboo forest and Waimoku Falls) and Halemau&#8217;u Trail.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The summit and K\u012bpahulu are not connected by road inside the park<\/strong> \u2014 getting from one to the other requires driving via H\u0101na Highway, which takes at least 2\u20133 hours.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong> is April\u2013May or September\u2013October \u2014 fewer tourists and pleasant weather.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bring warm clothing for the summit<\/strong> \u2014 even if it&#8217;s 30 \u00b0C (86 \u00b0F) on the beach below, temperatures near the top can hover around freezing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Stargazing on Haleakal\u0101<\/strong> is among the best in the world \u2014 minimal light pollution and high altitude make for incredible conditions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Allow 3\u20134 hours for Pipiwai Trail, and expect to get wet (rain is common here).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Parking at K\u012bpahulu<\/strong> fills up fast \u2014 set off as early in the morning as possible.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_go_and_how_to_get_to_Haleakala_National_Park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_go_and_how_to_get_to_Haleakala_National_Park\"><\/span>When to go and how to get to Haleakal\u0101 National Park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Haleakal\u0101 National Park is open year-round, but the weather and crowd levels vary significantly throughout the year. The ideal time to visit is <strong>April to May<\/strong> and <strong>September to October<\/strong> \u2014 during these months there&#8217;s less rain, temperatures are pleasant and there are noticeably fewer tourists compared to summer or Christmas. We visited Maui in February and the weather was surprisingly good \u2014 the summit was clear, though it did rain a little in K\u012bpahulu (but that&#8217;s pretty much par for the course there \ud83d\ude05).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Weather_by_park_area\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Weather_by_park_area\"><\/span>Weather by park area<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The key thing to understand is that <strong>Haleakal\u0101 has two completely different sections<\/strong>, and the weather in each is drastically different:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Summit (peak, 10,023 ft \/ 3,055 m):<\/strong> Temperatures range from around 0\u201310 \u00b0C (32\u201350 \u00b0F), even in summer. The wind can be brutal. Packing a beanie, gloves and a jacket is a necessity, not a luxury.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>K\u012bpahulu (coast):<\/strong> Tropical climate, around 25\u201330 \u00b0C (77\u201386 \u00b0F), but it rains frequently \u2014 especially in the afternoon. A rain jacket or poncho comes in handy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_get_to_the_summit\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_get_to_the_summit\"><\/span>How to get to the summit<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The summit is reached via <strong>Haleakal\u0101 Highway (Route 378)<\/strong> \u2014 a beautiful but winding road that climbs from the town of Kahului at sea level to 10,023 feet. The drive up takes <strong>roughly 1.5\u20132 hours<\/strong> and covers about 37 miles (60 km). The road is in good condition, but it&#8217;s narrow with plenty of hairpin bends \u2014 if you&#8217;re prone to motion sickness, take something for it beforehand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>For sunrise<\/strong>, you&#8217;ll need to leave in the middle of the night \u2014 typically around 3:00\u20134:00 a.m., depending on the time of year. And be aware: <strong>you must have a reservation in advance<\/strong> (more on that below). Fill up the tank the evening before, as there are no petrol stations along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_get_to_Kipahulu\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_get_to_Kipahulu\"><\/span>How to get to K\u012bpahulu<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The coastal section of the park at K\u012bpahulu is reached via the famous <strong>H\u0101na Highway (Route 360)<\/strong> from Kahului \u2014 the drive takes about <strong>2.5\u20133 hours<\/strong> one way and is one of the most scenic (and slowest) road trips on Maui. Alternatively, you can continue along the southern route via Pi\u02bbilani Highway, but part of the road is unpaved and most car hire companies prohibit driving on it. We took the risk and survived, but it did cost us a few nerves. \ud83d\ude01<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Important:<\/strong> The summit and K\u012bpahulu are not connected by road inside the park. Ideally, plan them for two separate days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Entrance_fees_and_reservations\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Entrance_fees_and_reservations\"><\/span>Entrance fees and reservations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Entrance fee:<\/strong> $30 per car (valid for 3 days, covering both sections of the park), $25 for a motorcycle, $15 per person (on foot or bicycle). If you&#8217;re planning to visit multiple US national parks, grab the <strong>America the Beautiful Pass<\/strong> for $80 \u2014 it&#8217;s valid for a year and gets you free entry everywhere.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sunrise reservation:<\/strong> Required since 2017 \u2014 $1 per car via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.recreation.gov\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">recreation.gov<\/a>. Reservations open <strong>60 days in advance<\/strong> and sell out within minutes. A second batch is released <strong>2 days before<\/strong>, but that&#8217;s a gamble. Book as soon as the window opens!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We&#8217;ve had consistently great experiences with <strong><a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"RentalCars.com\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/rentalcars-com\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">RentalCars<\/a><\/strong>, which we use everywhere around the world \u2014 on Maui, a car is an absolute must, as you simply can&#8217;t get anywhere without one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_on_Maui_how_much_it_costs\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_on_Maui_and_how_much_it_costs\"><\/span>Where to stay on Maui + how much it costs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Accommodation on Maui is, how to put this diplomatically\u2026 expensive. It&#8217;s Hawaii, so expect to pay a minimum of $150\u2013250 (roughly \u20ac140\u2013230) per night for a hotel, and that&#8217;s for a decent mid-range standard. Luxury resorts on the south coast start from $400 upwards. But there are more affordable options \u2014 mainly Airbnb and smaller guesthouses in areas like P\u0101\u02bbia or Kula, where you can find solid accommodation for <strong>$120\u2013180 (\u20ac110\u2013165) per night<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For visiting Haleakal\u0101, we recommend staying in one of these areas:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kula_Upcountry_Maui\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kula_Upcountry_Maui\"><\/span>Kula \/ Upcountry Maui<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re planning to catch sunrise at the summit, <strong>Kula is the most strategic choice<\/strong> \u2014 it sits at a higher elevation on the slopes of Haleakal\u0101, putting you just about 45 minutes from the summit by car (instead of 1.5\u20132 hours from the coast). Plus, it&#8217;s gorgeous up here \u2014 farms, vineyards, cooler air and stunning views. Prices tend to be a bit more reasonable than on the coast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Pa%CA%BBia\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Paia\"><\/span>P\u0101\u02bbia<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A tiny, colourful surf town on the north shore. From here it&#8217;s about 1.5 hours to the summit, and P\u0101\u02bbia also serves as the starting point for H\u0101na Highway (and therefore K\u012bpahulu too). There are loads of great restaurants, quirky shops and a laid-back beach vibe. A perfect base if you want to combine Haleakal\u0101 with the Road to H\u0101na.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kahului\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kahului\"><\/span>Kahului<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maui&#8217;s main town \u2014 it&#8217;s no beauty queen, but it has the airport, shops and the most affordable accommodation on the island. It&#8217;s a reasonable distance to both the summit and H\u0101na.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_a_Maui_holiday_cost_budget_for_two_for_a_week\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_a_Maui_holiday_cost_budget_for_two_for_a_week\"><\/span>How much does a Maui holiday cost (budget for two for a week)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Accommodation:<\/strong> $150\u2013250\/night \u2192 $1,050\u20131,750\/week (approx. \u20ac960\u20131,600)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Car hire:<\/strong> $60\u2013120\/day \u2192 $420\u2013840\/week (approx. \u20ac385\u2013770)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Food:<\/strong> $50\u2013100\/day for two \u2192 $350\u2013700\/week (approx. \u20ac320\u2013640)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Entry fees and activities:<\/strong> $100\u2013300\/week (approx. \u20ac90\u2013275)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Petrol:<\/strong> about $50\u201380\/week (approx. \u20ac45\u201375)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Total for two per week:<\/strong> roughly <strong>$2,000\u20133,700<\/strong>, or approximately <strong>\u20ac1,830\u20133,390<\/strong> (excluding flights)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Flights from the UK to Maui typically cost around <strong>\u00a3500\u2013900 per person<\/strong> with a stopover in Los Angeles or San Francisco. Look for deals with airlines like <strong>British Airways, Virgin Atlantic or United<\/strong> \u2014 connecting via a US hub is the most common routing from the UK.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re planning more than just Maui in Hawaii, check out our complete <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/maui-hawaii\/\">guide to a Maui holiday<\/a>, where you&#8217;ll find tips for other islands too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Summit_Haleakala_6_experiences_you_cant_miss\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Summit_Haleakala_6_experiences_you_cant_miss\"><\/span>Summit Haleakal\u0101: 6 experiences you can&#8217;t miss<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The summit area of Haleakal\u0101 is quite literally another world. Picture an enormous crater (technically an erosional valley, but nobody calls it that), 7 miles long, 2 miles wide and 2,600 feet deep. The landscape resembles Mars \u2014 red, orange and grey cinders, cinder cone volcanoes and absolute silence. Up top you&#8217;ll find the rare silversword plant that grows nowhere else on Earth, and if you&#8217;re lucky, the Hawaiian goose n\u0113n\u0113. It&#8217;s a magical place that will make you forget to breathe \u2014 and not just because of the altitude. \ud83d\ude01<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Sunrise_at_the_summit_%E2%80%94_the_most_iconic_experience_on_Maui\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Sunrise_at_the_summit_the_most_iconic_experience_on_Maui\"><\/span>1. Sunrise at the summit \u2014 the most iconic experience on Maui<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"855\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-0-vychod-slunce-nad-kraterem-haleakaly-s-divaky.jpg\" alt=\"Sunrise over Haleakal\u0101 crater with spectators\" class=\"wp-image-160696\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-0-vychod-slunce-nad-kraterem-haleakaly-s-divaky.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-0-vychod-slunce-nad-kraterem-haleakaly-s-divaky-300x214.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-0-vychod-slunce-nad-kraterem-haleakaly-s-divaky-700x499.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-0-vychod-slunce-nad-kraterem-haleakaly-s-divaky-768x547.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-0-vychod-slunce-nad-kraterem-haleakaly-s-divaky-696x496.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Paul Harrison \/ CC BY-SA 4.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This is the number one reason people flock to Haleakal\u0101, and I have to say, rightly so. Mark Twain described it as &#8220;the sublimest spectacle I ever witnessed,&#8221; and I agree one hundred per cent. You stand at the Pu&#8217;u&#8217;ula&#8217;ula (Red Hill) viewpoint at 10,023 feet, surrounded by a sea of clouds, and then it happens \u2014 the sun slowly peeks above the horizon and the entire crater lights up in shades of pink, orange and gold. It&#8217;s so beautiful you&#8217;ll want to cry. Or at least I did. \ud83d\ude05<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Practical tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>A reservation is mandatory.<\/strong> Without one, the ranger won&#8217;t let you through the gate. Book it on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.recreation.gov\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">recreation.gov<\/a> exactly 60 days in advance \u2014 slots vanish within minutes. If you miss it, try your luck 2 days before your planned visit, when a second batch is released.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Leave early.<\/strong> The park gate opens at 3:00 a.m. and you&#8217;ll want to be at the top at least 30\u201345 minutes before sunrise to grab a good spot.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dress warmly!<\/strong> It can be around 0\u20135 \u00b0C (32\u201341 \u00b0F) at the top with wind that will chill you to the bone. We wore thermals, a fleece, a jacket, a beanie and gloves \u2014 and were still cold. Bring a blanket to sit on too.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Acclimatisation:<\/strong> You&#8217;re at 10,000 feet. If you&#8217;re coming straight from the beach, you might experience mild altitude sickness \u2014 headaches, dizziness. Drink plenty of water and take it easy on any stairs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>After sunrise, take in the views from the summit \u2014 on a clear day you can see Big Island and Moloka\u02bbi. Then head out on a hike into the crater, because the best is yet to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Sliding_Sands_Trail_Keonehe%CA%BBehe%CA%BBe_%E2%80%94_hike_into_the_heart_of_the_crater\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Sliding_Sands_Trail_Keoneheeheee_hike_into_the_heart_of_the_crater\"><\/span>2. Sliding Sands Trail (Keonehe\u02bbehe\u02bbe) \u2014 hike into the heart of the crater<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-sliding-sands.jpg\" alt=\"Hiker descending the Sliding Sands Trail into Haleakal\u0101 crater\" class=\"wp-image-160684\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-sliding-sands.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-sliding-sands-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-sliding-sands-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-sliding-sands-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-sliding-sands-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you only have time for one hike on Haleakal\u0101, <strong>make it Sliding Sands<\/strong>. This trail takes you straight into the heart of the crater and it&#8217;s one of the most surreal experiences we&#8217;ve ever had on our travels. You&#8217;re literally walking across colourful cinders \u2014 red, purple, black, grey \u2014 with volcanic cones towering around you that look like something out of a sci-fi film.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The trail starts at the Visitor Centre on the summit and descends steeply into the crater. <strong>The out-and-back route to the Ka Lu&#8217;u o ka O&#8217;o cinder cone is about 5 miles (8 km)<\/strong> and takes 3\u20135 hours, depending on how far you go. Fair warning \u2014 the descent is easy, but the climb back up is a beast. You&#8217;re gaining 1,000\u20132,000 feet of elevation at over 8,000 feet altitude, and trust me, you&#8217;ll feel every step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What to bring:<\/strong> Plenty of water (at least 2 litres per person), snacks, sunscreen (UV radiation at this altitude is extreme), sunglasses and decent <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/how-choose-hiking-boots\/\">hiking boots<\/a>. The surface is loose and slippery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re experienced hikers with a full day to spare, you can traverse the entire crater and exit via Halemau&#8217;u Trail (see tip #3) \u2014 that&#8217;s about 11 miles (18 km) and one of the best full-day hikes in Hawaii. You&#8217;ll need a second car or a lift waiting at the other end, though.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Halemauu_Trail_%E2%80%94_views_and_switchbacks\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Halemauu_Trail_views_and_switchbacks\"><\/span>3. Halemau&#8217;u Trail \u2014 views and switchbacks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-stezka-kraterem.jpg\" alt=\"Hiker on a trail through the Haleakal\u0101 crater\" class=\"wp-image-160685\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-stezka-kraterem.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-stezka-kraterem-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-stezka-kraterem-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-stezka-kraterem-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-stezka-kraterem-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Halemau&#8217;u Trail is the &#8220;other side&#8221; of the crater and offers a slightly different perspective on Haleakal\u0101. The trail starts at the Halemau&#8217;u Trailhead car park (below the summit, at about 8,000 ft \/ 2,400 m) and descends into the crater via a series of gorgeous switchbacks with views that will make your head spin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The most popular option<\/strong> is to hike to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&amp;campaign=post-129462&amp;hotelname=Holua%20Cabin&amp;address=Maui%2C%20Havaj\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Holua Cabin<\/a>, which is about <strong>4 miles (6 km) round trip<\/strong> (2\u20133 hours). Along the way you&#8217;ll see stunning rock formations, occasionally spot n\u0113n\u0113 (Hawaiian geese), and on a clear day enjoy views of Maui&#8217;s north coast. If you have more time, continue on to the Silversword Loop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This trail is an ideal alternative for those who don&#8217;t fancy tackling Sliding Sands (or don&#8217;t have the fitness for the climb back up). It&#8217;s less strenuous and less crowded. We combined it with sunrise \u2014 first we watched the sunrise, then warmed up at the car with coffee from a flask and set off on Halemau&#8217;u. The perfect morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Silversword_%E2%80%94_a_rare_plant_that_only_grows_here\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Silversword_a_rare_plant_that_only_grows_here\"><\/span>4. Silversword \u2014 a rare plant that only grows here<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-1-vzacna-rostlina-silversword-v-krateru-haleakaly.jpg\" alt=\"Rare silversword plant in the Haleakal\u0101 crater\" class=\"wp-image-160697\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-1-vzacna-rostlina-silversword-v-krateru-haleakaly.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-1-vzacna-rostlina-silversword-v-krateru-haleakaly-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-1-vzacna-rostlina-silversword-v-krateru-haleakaly-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-1-vzacna-rostlina-silversword-v-krateru-haleakaly-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-1-vzacna-rostlina-silversword-v-krateru-haleakaly-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Paul Harrison \/ CC BY-SA 4.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Haleakal\u0101 silversword (\u02bb\u0101hinahina) is a completely unique plant that grows <strong>only on the slopes of Haleakal\u0101<\/strong> \u2014 nowhere else in the world. It looks like a silver hedgehog or an alien antenna \u2014 its silvery leaves, covered in fine hairs, reflect sunlight, and the plant can grow up to about three feet tall. Once in its lifetime (literally), it blooms \u2014 sending up a tall stalk covered in purple flowers \u2014 and then it dies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You&#8217;ll spot silverswords along the trails near the summit, particularly around the <strong>Silversword Loop<\/strong> inside the crater and near the Visitor Centre. In the 1990s they were nearly extinct due to feral goats and vandalism, but thanks to conservation efforts their population is slowly recovering. <strong>Please don&#8217;t approach them or venture off the marked paths<\/strong> \u2014 their root system is incredibly fragile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Stargazing_%E2%80%94_stars_like_nowhere_else\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Stargazing_stars_like_nowhere_else\"><\/span>5. Stargazing \u2014 stars like nowhere else<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"704\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-2-hvezdarna-na-vrcholu-haleakaly-raj-pro-pozorovani-hvezd.jpg\" alt=\"Observatory at the summit of Haleakal\u0101, a paradise for stargazing\" class=\"wp-image-160698\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-2-hvezdarna-na-vrcholu-haleakaly-raj-pro-pozorovani-hvezd.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-2-hvezdarna-na-vrcholu-haleakaly-raj-pro-pozorovani-hvezd-300x176.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-2-hvezdarna-na-vrcholu-haleakaly-raj-pro-pozorovani-hvezd-700x411.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-2-hvezdarna-na-vrcholu-haleakaly-raj-pro-pozorovani-hvezd-768x451.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-2-hvezdarna-na-vrcholu-haleakaly-raj-pro-pozorovani-hvezd-696x408.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Ekrem Canli \/ CC BY-SA 4.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Haleakal\u0101 is one of the <strong>best stargazing spots on the planet<\/strong>. The combination of altitude (above the cloud layer and most atmospheric moisture), its location in the middle of the Pacific (minimal light pollution) and the dry air creates conditions astronomers dream of. It&#8217;s no accident that a scientific observatory sits on the summit \u2014 unfortunately it&#8217;s not open to the public, but you don&#8217;t need a telescope to enjoy the show.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>When and where:<\/strong> Stargazing is best <strong>after sunset<\/strong> \u2014 drive up about an hour before dusk, watch the sunset (also beautiful, just less famous than sunrise) and then stay put. The Milky Way is visible to the naked eye in almost all its glory from here. The best period is <strong>April to October<\/strong>, when the core of the Milky Way is above the horizon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> If you&#8217;d rather not be alone on the summit in the dark (which is perfectly fine, but understandably unnerves some people), book a <strong>guided stargazing tour<\/strong> with a telescope. Guides will show you planets, nebulae and galaxies, and share Hawaiian legends about the stars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Biking_down_Haleakala_%E2%80%94_a_ride_from_10000_feet\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Biking_down_Haleakala_a_ride_from_10000_feet\"><\/span>6. Biking down Haleakal\u0101 \u2014 a ride from 10,000 feet<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If sunrise is the number one experience on Haleakal\u0101, biking down is a solid number two. Picture this \u2014 you&#8217;re cycling from 10,000 feet down to the coast, about 37 miles, with practically no pedalling. The wind rushes past your ears, eucalyptus forests and pastures fly by and you feel a sense of absolute freedom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most tour operators pick you up early in the morning, drive you to the summit (or just below it \u2014 since 2007, organised groups are no longer allowed to start from the very top), kit you out with a bike, helmet and jacket, and off you go. The whole experience takes about <strong>4\u20135 hours<\/strong> including stops. Prices are typically around <strong>$100\u2013200 per person<\/strong> (approx. \u20ac90\u2013185).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> If you&#8217;re thinking of combining sunrise and a bike tour in one day, check with the specific operator \u2014 not all of them offer both together. And if you&#8217;re nervous about winding roads or don&#8217;t have experience cycling in mountains, give this one a miss. It&#8217;s not a race, but the road is shared with cars and it can get pretty intense at times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kipahulu_and_Pipiwai_Trail_5_tips_for_the_coastal_section_of_the_park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kipahulu_and_Pipiwai_Trail_5_tips_for_the_coastal_section\"><\/span>K\u012bpahulu and Pipiwai Trail: 5 tips for the coastal section of the park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The other face of Haleakal\u0101 is utterly different from the lunar landscape on the summit. The K\u012bpahulu area is a lush, green tropical paradise on Maui&#8217;s east coast, reached via the legendary H\u0101na Highway. Here you&#8217;ll find bamboo forests, waterfalls, natural pools and an atmosphere that&#8217;s as far from the tourist bustle of west Maui as it gets. It&#8217;s peaceful, magical and a little wild \u2014 exactly what you picture when you dream about Hawaii.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Pipiwai_Trail_%E2%80%94_through_a_bamboo_forest_to_a_dream_waterfall\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Pipiwai_Trail_through_a_bamboo_forest_to_a_dream_waterfall\"><\/span>7. Pipiwai Trail \u2014 through a bamboo forest to a dream waterfall<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-banyan-pipiwai.jpg\" alt=\"Giant banyan tree along the Pipiwai Trail in K\u012bpahulu\" class=\"wp-image-160686\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-banyan-pipiwai.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-banyan-pipiwai-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-banyan-pipiwai-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-banyan-pipiwai-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-banyan-pipiwai-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Pipiwai Trail is, in my opinion, <strong>the most beautiful hike on all of Maui<\/strong> and possibly in all of Hawaii. It&#8217;s 4 miles (6.4 km) round trip (about 3\u20134 hours), leading past banyan trees, through enormous roots, across streams \u2014 and then suddenly you step into a <strong>bamboo forest<\/strong> that takes your breath away. Hundreds of bamboo stalks soar up to 65 feet, creaking and clacking in the wind, and you feel like you&#8217;ve stepped into another dimension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the end of the trail your reward awaits \u2014 <strong>Waimoku Falls<\/strong>, a 400-foot waterfall that cascades down a rock face into a small pool. Swimming beneath the falls is officially banned (falling rocks), but the sight alone is worth every step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Practical tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Set off <strong>as early in the morning as possible<\/strong> \u2014 the car park at the K\u012bpahulu Visitor Centre fills up quickly and there&#8217;ll be fewer people on the trail.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Expect rain.<\/strong> K\u012bpahulu is one of the wettest parts of Maui. Bring a rain jacket and shoes you don&#8217;t mind getting muddy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The trail can be slippery after rain \u2014 trekking poles are useful though not essential.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mosquitoes.<\/strong> Lots of mosquitoes. Insect repellent is a must-have.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you&#8217;re driving the H\u0101na Highway, plan Pipiwai as your first stop before the car park fills up (aim to arrive around 9:00 a.m.).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Pools_of_%CA%BBOhe%CA%BBo_Seven_Sacred_Pools_%E2%80%94_natural_pools_by_the_ocean\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Pools_of_Oheo_Seven_Sacred_Pools_natural_pools_by_the_ocean\"><\/span>8. Pools of \u02bb\u014che\u02bbo (Seven Sacred Pools) \u2014 natural pools by the ocean<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-3-kaskadova-jezirka-pools-of-oheo-seven-sacred-pools.jpg\" alt=\"Cascading pools at Pools of \u02bb\u014che\u02bbo (Seven Sacred Pools)\" class=\"wp-image-160699\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-3-kaskadova-jezirka-pools-of-oheo-seven-sacred-pools.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-3-kaskadova-jezirka-pools-of-oheo-seven-sacred-pools-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-3-kaskadova-jezirka-pools-of-oheo-seven-sacred-pools-700x394.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-3-kaskadova-jezirka-pools-of-oheo-seven-sacred-pools-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-3-kaskadova-jezirka-pools-of-oheo-seven-sacred-pools-696x392.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Joe Parks from Berkeley, CA \/ CC BY 2.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Right next to the K\u012bpahulu Visitor Centre you&#8217;ll find a series of natural pools fed by waterfalls that cascade all the way down to the ocean. They&#8217;re called <strong>\u02bb\u014che\u02bbo Gulch<\/strong>, though you may know them by their marketing name &#8220;Seven Sacred Pools&#8221; (in reality there are more than seven and they&#8217;re not actually sacred, but the name stuck \ud83d\ude05).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Swimming in the pools is often prohibited<\/strong> due to strong currents, flash flood risk and bacteria. Check the current conditions on the NPS (National Park Service) website before your visit. When we were there, the pools were closed \u2014 but it&#8217;s still a stunning spot for a walk and photographs. The view of the cascades tumbling into the ocean is spectacular.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The trail to the pools is short and easy \u2014 about <strong>0.5 miles (0.8 km) round trip<\/strong> along a paved path. Ideal if you don&#8217;t have the time or energy for the full Pipiwai Trail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Waimoku_Falls_%E2%80%94_a_400-foot_waterfall\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Waimoku_Falls_a_400_foot_waterfall\"><\/span>9. Waimoku Falls \u2014 a 400-foot waterfall<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"960\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-4-stometrovy-vodopad-waimoku-falls-na-konci-stezky-pipiwai.jpg\" alt=\"The towering Waimoku Falls at the end of Pipiwai Trail\" class=\"wp-image-160700\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-4-stometrovy-vodopad-waimoku-falls-na-konci-stezky-pipiwai.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-4-stometrovy-vodopad-waimoku-falls-na-konci-stezky-pipiwai-300x240.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-4-stometrovy-vodopad-waimoku-falls-na-konci-stezky-pipiwai-700x560.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-4-stometrovy-vodopad-waimoku-falls-na-konci-stezky-pipiwai-768x614.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-4-stometrovy-vodopad-waimoku-falls-na-konci-stezky-pipiwai-696x557.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Thomas from Philadelphia Area, USA \/ CC BY-SA 2.0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>I already mentioned Waimoku Falls in the Pipiwai Trail section, but it deserves its own spot on the list because it&#8217;s simply an <strong>awe-inspiring sight<\/strong>. The waterfall is 400 feet (120 m) tall, with water cascading down a rock face draped in tropical vegetation. After rain, the flow is massive and you can hear the thundering roar dozens of metres before the falls come into view.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You stand there, look up and wonder how nature could possibly create something so perfect. And then a droplet from the falls lands right on your camera lens and you snap back to reality. \ud83d\ude01<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Important:<\/strong> Don&#8217;t get too close to the waterfall \u2014 falling rocks are a genuine hazard, especially after rain. The NPS takes this seriously and the zone directly beneath the falls is closed off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Kuloa_Point_Trail_%E2%80%94_ocean_viewpoint\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Kuloa_Point_Trail_ocean_viewpoint\"><\/span>10. Kuloa Point Trail \u2014 ocean viewpoint<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-kuloa-point-pobrezi.jpg\" alt=\"Black lava coastline with tide pools in the K\u012bpahulu area\" class=\"wp-image-160693\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-kuloa-point-pobrezi.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-kuloa-point-pobrezi-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-kuloa-point-pobrezi-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-kuloa-point-pobrezi-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-kuloa-point-pobrezi-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A short, easy trail (0.5-mile loop) that leads from the K\u012bpahulu Visitor Centre to the coast. It&#8217;s the perfect walk for everyone \u2014 with kids, with grandparents, with anyone. At the end of the trail you stand on a rocky headland overlooking the ocean, listening to waves crashing against the lava. During the winter months (December\u2013April) you might spot <strong>humpback whales<\/strong> migrating past Maui from here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even though it&#8217;s just a quick stroll, the atmosphere is wonderful \u2014 grass, palm forest, fresh ocean air. Combine it with a visit to the Pools of \u02bb\u014che\u02bbo for a perfect one-hour outing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Hana_Highway_%E2%80%94_the_journey_is_the_destination\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Hana_Highway_the_journey_is_the_destination\"><\/span>11. H\u0101na Highway \u2014 the journey is the destination<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-hana-highway-vyhled.jpg\" alt=\"Viewpoint of a turquoise bay along the H\u0101na Highway\" class=\"wp-image-160694\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-hana-highway-vyhled.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-hana-highway-vyhled-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-hana-highway-vyhled-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-hana-highway-vyhled-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-hana-highway-vyhled-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Technically, H\u0101na Highway isn&#8217;t part of the national park, but since it&#8217;s how you get to K\u012bpahulu, it deserves a mention. The <strong>Road to H\u0101na<\/strong> is one of the most famous drives in the world \u2014 64 miles of winding road with 620 curves and 59 bridges (most of them single-lane!), hugging the northeast coast of Maui. Along the way you&#8217;ll pass waterfalls, black sand beaches, botanical gardens and picturesque bays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Don&#8217;t try to rush the H\u0101na Highway. Plan <strong>a full day<\/strong> for the drive to K\u012bpahulu \u2014 stop often, have a swim, snack at the viewpoints. Popular stops along the way: <strong>Twin Falls<\/strong> (easy hike to a waterfall right at the start), <strong>Waianapanapa State Park<\/strong> (black sand beach, reservation required), <strong>Upper Waikani Falls<\/strong> (a photogenic triple waterfall visible from the road).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the way back you can either retrace your route or continue along the southern road via Pi\u02bbilani Highway \u2014 but be warned, part of it is unpaved and car hire companies prohibit it. We took the gamble\u2026 and it was an adventure. Let&#8217;s just say I probably wouldn&#8217;t do it again next time. Or maybe I would. Yeah, probably would. \ud83d\ude05<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips_for_adventurous_travellers_4_bonus_experiences\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips_for_adventurous_travellers_4_bonus_experiences\"><\/span>Tips for adventurous travellers: 4 bonus experiences<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Haleakal\u0101 offers more than just the classic tourist trails. If you enjoy wilder experiences or are looking for something off the beaten track, here are some tips you won&#8217;t typically find in guidebooks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Overnight_in_the_crater_%E2%80%94_cabins_and_campsites\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Overnight_in_the_crater_cabins_and_campsites\"><\/span>12. Overnight in the crater \u2014 cabins and campsites<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Did you know that <strong>you can actually spend the night inside the Haleakal\u0101 crater<\/strong>? The National Park Service operates three rustic cabins (H\u014dlua, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&amp;campaign=post-129462&amp;hotelname=Kapalaoa&amp;address=Maui%2C%20Havaj\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Kapalaoa<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/roam?aid=lukaskonecny&amp;campaign=loudavymkrokemcz&amp;campaign=post-129462&amp;hotelname=Paliku&amp;address=Maui%2C%20Havaj\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Paliku<\/a>) and two campsites. The cabins have beds, a cooking stove and a toilet \u2014 no luxury, but the feeling of sleeping in the middle of a crater in Hawaii is priceless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Reservations<\/strong> are made through recreation.gov and slots are incredibly sought-after \u2014 they open <strong>6 months in advance<\/strong> and the cabins are gone within hours. Campsites (tent camping) are easier to book. Spending a night in the crater lets you watch both sunset and sunrise from inside, tackle longer trails and experience the absolute silence of a Hawaiian night beneath the stars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Full-day_crater_traverse_%E2%80%94_Sliding_Sands_Halemauu\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Full_day_crater_traverse_Sliding_Sands_Halemauu\"><\/span>13. Full-day crater traverse \u2014 Sliding Sands + Halemau&#8217;u<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-traverse-krateru.jpg\" alt=\"Hiker crossing the crater floor between cinder cones\" class=\"wp-image-160687\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-traverse-krateru.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-traverse-krateru-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-traverse-krateru-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-traverse-krateru-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-traverse-krateru-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For fit hikers, the <strong>full crater traverse<\/strong> is one of the best day hikes in the United States. The route leads from the summit down Sliding Sands, through the entire crater and out via Halemau&#8217;u Trail \u2014 roughly <strong>11 miles (18 km) with about 3,000 feet (900 m) of elevation change<\/strong>. Allow <strong>7\u201310 hours<\/strong> of walking time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The logistics can be tricky<\/strong> \u2014 you start and finish at different trailheads, so you&#8217;ll need either two cars or someone to pick you up. Some tour operators offer a shuttle service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Along the way you&#8217;ll see absolutely everything \u2014 colourful cinders, volcanic cones, silverswords, cinder fields and a landscape that&#8217;s completely otherworldly. It&#8217;s physically demanding (mainly due to the altitude), but utterly unforgettable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_Spotting_nene_%E2%80%94_the_worlds_rarest_goose\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_Spotting_nene_the_worlds_rarest_goose\"><\/span>14. Spotting n\u0113n\u0113 \u2014 the world&#8217;s rarest goose<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-5-husa-nene-nejohrozenejsi-husa-sveta-v-parku-haleakala.jpg\" alt=\"N\u0113n\u0113 goose, the world&#039;s rarest goose, in Haleakal\u0101 National Park\" class=\"wp-image-160701\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-5-husa-nene-nejohrozenejsi-husa-sveta-v-parku-haleakala.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-5-husa-nene-nejohrozenejsi-husa-sveta-v-parku-haleakala-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-5-husa-nene-nejohrozenejsi-husa-sveta-v-parku-haleakala-700x525.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-5-husa-nene-nejohrozenejsi-husa-sveta-v-parku-haleakala-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-5-husa-nene-nejohrozenejsi-husa-sveta-v-parku-haleakala-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-5-husa-nene-nejohrozenejsi-husa-sveta-v-parku-haleakala-160x120.jpg 160w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129462-5-husa-nene-nejohrozenejsi-husa-sveta-v-parku-haleakala-696x522.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Dennisg009 \/ CC0 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The n\u0113n\u0113 (Hawaiian goose) is the <strong>state bird of Hawaii<\/strong> and one of the rarest birds on Earth. In the 1950s, only 30 individuals remained. Today, thanks to conservation programmes, around 3,000 live across Hawaii \u2014 and many of them call the slopes of Haleakal\u0101 home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You&#8217;re most likely to spot n\u0113n\u0113 around the <strong>summit car park<\/strong> and along the road in the upper part of the park. They&#8217;re used to people and aren&#8217;t particularly shy \u2014 but please, <strong>don&#8217;t feed them or get too close<\/strong>. They&#8217;re a protected species and the fines for disturbing them are hefty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They&#8217;re easy to recognise \u2014 they look like a smaller version of the Canada goose, but with longer legs and less webbing between their toes (an adaptation to lava terrain). And they sometimes stroll along the road with the kind of nonchalance that suggests they own the whole island. Which, in a way, they sort of do. \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_Sunset_at_the_summit_%E2%80%94_less_famous_but_equally_stunning\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_Sunset_at_the_summit_less_famous_but_equally_stunning\"><\/span>15. Sunset at the summit \u2014 less famous, but equally stunning<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-navstevnice-krater.jpg\" alt=\"Visitor in the Haleakal\u0101 crater among cinder cones\" class=\"wp-image-160688\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-navstevnice-krater.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-navstevnice-krater-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-navstevnice-krater-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-navstevnice-krater-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-navstevnice-krater-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Everyone raves about sunrise, but <strong>sunset on Haleakal\u0101 is an underrated gem<\/strong>. Unlike sunrise, <strong>you don&#8217;t need a reservation<\/strong>, far fewer people turn up and the atmosphere is calmer and more intimate. The colours are different \u2014 more reds and purples \u2014 and after the sun dips below the horizon, you can stay for stargazing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Arrive about 2 hours before sunset, take a stroll along the short summit trails (Pa Ka&#8217;oao Trail, 0.2 miles, or Leleiwi Overlook) and then find a spot at one of the viewpoints. Bring warm clothing and a head torch for the walk back to your car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Personally, I think if you can only pick one \u2014 and don&#8217;t fancy getting up at 3 a.m. \u2014 <strong>sunset is the better choice<\/strong>. I&#8217;m saying this as someone who&#8217;s seen both. \ud83d\ude0a<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_eat_and_drink_on_Maui_and_what_to_bring_to_Haleakala\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_eat_and_drink_on_Maui_and_what_to_bring_to_Haleakala\"><\/span>What to eat and drink on Maui (and what to bring to Haleakal\u0101)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You don&#8217;t want to head to the summit or K\u012bpahulu on an empty stomach. There are no restaurants or shops inside the park \u2014 you need to bring everything with you. But outside the park, the food on Maui is fantastic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Food_to_bring_on_a_hike\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Food_to_bring_on_a_hike\"><\/span>Food to bring on a hike<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Plenty of water.<\/strong> At least 2 litres per person for the summit, at least 1.5 litres for Pipiwai Trail.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sandwiches \u2014 pick them up the evening before from Whole Foods or Safeway in Kahului.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For the summit, bring hot tea or coffee in a flask as well \u2014 you&#8217;ll be grateful for it after watching sunrise in the freezing cold.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_eat_on_Maui\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_eat_on_Maui\"><\/span>Where to eat on Maui<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>P\u0101\u02bbia:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Mama&#8217;s Fish House<\/strong> \u2014 a legendary Maui restaurant with fresh fish and ocean views. Pricey (mains $40\u201360 \/ approx. \u20ac37\u201355), but the atmosphere is unforgettable. Book weeks in advance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>P\u0101\u02bbia Fish Market<\/strong> \u2014 if you want amazing fish tacos at a reasonable price, this is your spot. The queue is long but moves quickly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Flatbread Company<\/strong> \u2014 excellent pizzas made with local ingredients, relaxed vibe.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Kahului:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tin Roof<\/strong> \u2014 by chef Sheldon Sim (of Top Chef fame). Hawaiian comfort food \u2014 garlic noodles and pork belly bowl for just a few dollars. Lunch only, but the queue is manageable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Poi by the Pound<\/strong> \u2014 authentic Hawaiian cuisine including poi, laulau and kalua pork. If you want to try traditional Hawaiian food, this is the real deal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Kula \/ Upcountry:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Kula Lodge<\/strong> \u2014 breakfast with a view of Haleakal\u0101. The pancakes with local fruit are phenomenal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Grandma&#8217;s Coffee House<\/strong> \u2014 a small caf\u00e9 with homemade pastries and coffee grown right on Maui. The perfect pit stop on the way to or from the summit.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>On the road to H\u0101na:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Coconut Glen&#8217;s<\/strong> \u2014 vegan coconut ice cream served in an actual coconut shell. Sounds like a tourist trap, but it&#8217;s genuinely incredible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nahiku Marketplace<\/strong> \u2014 stalls with local food, smoothies and banana bread. The perfect pit stop on the H\u0101na Highway.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_tips_and_advice\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_tips_and_advice\"><\/span>Practical tips and advice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_pack_for_Haleakala\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_pack_for_Haleakala\"><\/span>What to pack for Haleakal\u0101<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>For the summit:<\/strong> Warm layers (thermals, fleece, jacket, beanie, gloves), head torch, sunscreen (the UV is fierce!), sunglasses, water, snacks, hot drink in a flask.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>For K\u012bpahulu\/Pipiwai:<\/strong> Light clothing, rain jacket, insect repellent, hiking shoes, water, snacks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For Hawaii in general: see our <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/carry-on-packing-tips\/\">guide to packing a carry-on bag<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Car_hire\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Car_hire\"><\/span>Car hire<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A car on Maui is <strong>absolutely essential<\/strong> \u2014 public transport is minimal and there&#8217;s simply no other way to reach Haleakal\u0101. We&#8217;ve had consistently great experiences with <strong><a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"RentalCars.com\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/rentalcars-com\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">RentalCars<\/a><\/strong>, which we use all over the world. On Maui, I&#8217;d recommend booking as early as possible \u2014 prices skyrocket during peak season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mobile_internet\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mobile_internet\"><\/span>Mobile internet<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Mobile coverage on Maui is generally decent, but <strong>signal at the summit and in K\u012bpahulu is weak or non-existent<\/strong>. Download offline maps before you go. If you need data throughout your US trip, check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/holafly-esim-review-travel\/\">review of the Holafly eSIM<\/a> \u2014 it works brilliantly. UK travellers will find an eSIM far easier than hunting for a local SIM card on arrival.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Travel_insurance\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Travel_insurance\"><\/span>Travel insurance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Whatever you do, don&#8217;t underestimate travel insurance in Hawaii \u2014 healthcare in the US is astronomically expensive. A single ambulance ride can set you back thousands of dollars. For shorter trips we recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/safetywing-travel-insurance-review\/\">SafetyWing<\/a>, and for longer stays <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"True Traveller\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/true-traveller\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">True Traveller<\/a> \u2014 which is particularly popular among UK travellers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_asked_questions_about_Haleakala_National_Park_FAQ\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_asked_questions_about_Haleakala_National_Park_FAQ\"><\/span>Frequently asked questions about Haleakal\u0101 National Park (FAQ)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778774923121\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_I_need_a_reservation_for_sunrise_at_Haleakala\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_I_need_a_reservation_for_sunrise_at_Haleakala\"><\/span>Do I need a reservation for sunrise at Haleakal\u0101?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, since 2017 a reservation has been required for entry to the summit between 3:00 and 7:00 a.m. Without one, the ranger won&#8217;t let you through the gate. You can book on recreation.gov for $1 \u2014 reservations open 60 days in advance. They&#8217;re incredibly popular, so book on the exact day they become available. A second chance comes 2 days before your planned visit, when remaining slots are released.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778774923122\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_it_cost_to_enter_Haleakala_National_Park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_it_cost_to_enter_Haleakala_National_Park\"><\/span>How much does it cost to enter Haleakal\u0101 National Park?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The entrance fee is $30 per car and is valid for 3 days (covering both sections of the park \u2014 summit and K\u012bpahulu). A motorcycle is $25, and entry on foot or by bicycle is $15 per person. If you have an America the Beautiful Pass ($80\/year), entry is free.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778774923123\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_you_drive_directly_from_the_summit_to_Kipahulu\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_you_drive_directly_from_the_summit_to_Kipahulu\"><\/span>Can you drive directly from the summit to K\u012bpahulu?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>No. The two sections of the park are not connected by road within the park. To get from the summit area to K\u012bpahulu, you need to drive via Kahului and then along the H\u0101na Highway, which takes at least 2\u20133 hours. Plan the summit and K\u012bpahulu for two separate days.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778774923124\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_should_I_wear_to_the_Haleakala_summit\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_should_I_wear_to_the_Haleakala_summit\"><\/span>What should I wear to the Haleakal\u0101 summit?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Dress in layers \u2014 the summit can be 0\u201310 \u00b0C (32\u201350 \u00b0F) even in summer, with strong winds. We recommend thermals, a fleece, a windbreaker or winter jacket, a beanie and gloves. It might be 30 \u00b0C (86 \u00b0F) on the beach, but you&#8217;ll be freezing at the top. Also bring sunscreen \u2014 UV radiation is extremely intense at this altitude.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778774923125\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_does_Pipiwai_Trail_take\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_does_Pipiwai_Trail_take\"><\/span>How long does Pipiwai Trail take?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Pipiwai Trail is 4 miles (6.4 km) round trip and takes roughly 3\u20134 hours. It&#8217;s a moderate hike with about 650 feet (200 m) of elevation gain, and can be slippery and muddy after rain. The trail leads through a bamboo forest to the 400-foot Waimoku Falls waterfall. Set off as early in the morning as possible for easier parking and fewer crowds.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778774923126\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Haleakala_suitable_for_families_with_children\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Haleakala_suitable_for_families_with_children\"><\/span>Is Haleakal\u0101 suitable for families with children?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The summit is \u2014 you can reach the viewpoints from the car via short paved paths. Older children can handle the sunrise experience, but bear in mind the early wake-up and the cold. Shorter trails like Kuloa Point Trail in K\u012bpahulu are ideal for families. I wouldn&#8217;t recommend Sliding Sands or Pipiwai Trail with small children \u2014 Sliding Sands is physically demanding and Pipiwai can be slippery and muddy.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778774923127\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_you_see_stars_at_Haleakala\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_you_see_stars_at_Haleakala\"><\/span>Can you see stars at Haleakal\u0101?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Absolutely \u2014 Haleakal\u0101 is one of the best stargazing spots in the world. The altitude of over 10,000 feet, minimal light pollution and dry air above the clouds create ideal conditions. The Milky Way is visible to the naked eye. The best period for stargazing is April to October. You don&#8217;t need a reservation for sunset and stargazing \u2014 just arrive before dusk.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- LKM_GYG_CARD start q=\"national maui\" lang=\"en\" rendered=\"2026-05-15T06:11:43+00:00\" v=\"1\" -->\n\n<!-- LKM_GYG_CARD end -->\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Waking up at 3 a.m. for a sunrise over a Mars-like crater \u2014 then wading through a bamboo forest to a 400-foot waterfall in the afternoon. Haleakal\u0101 is two worlds in one park. Here&#8217;s our guide with 15 tips.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":160682,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"","rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_seo_score":""},"categories":[374,320,684],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-161071","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-north-america","8":"category-travel","9":"category-united-states-of-america-usa"},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-par-na-summitu.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Lucie Kone\u010dn\u00e1","author_link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/author\/lucie-konecna\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/161071","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=161071"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/161071\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":162079,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/161071\/revisions\/162079"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/160682"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=161071"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=161071"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=161071"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}