Welcome
haleakala NATIONAL PARK
Haleakala National Park was developed by the International Biosphere Reserve in 1980. The name 'Haleakala' comes from the Hawaiian 'house of the sun'; according to local legend, the Maui demigod captured the sun here in order to increase the length of the day.
The park contains the dormant volcano Haleakala (East Maui); the last time it erupted was in 1490. The park is divided into two parts - the summit and the coastal zone of Kipahulu. Both parts in total are visited by about 1.450.000 visitors per year.
Information
The summit zone includes the Haleakala crater, the summit of the volcano and a small area around it. You can get here via Hawaiian Route 378.
The crater is undoubtedly the main attraction of the entire summit zone, if not the park as a whole. The huge funnel - 7 miles long, 2 miles wide - is strewn with various volcanic objects. There are two main paths leading from the top to the depths of the crater. Additional amenities are also provided for pedestrians.
Every morning, a large number of tourists climb to the top of the volcano, wishing to admire the magnificent sunrise. Even more people gather here in the evenings to watch the equally magnificent sunset.
In addition to the crater, tourists are attracted to the Hosmera Grove Park - a unique forest of the rarest plant species from the Himalayas, Japan, Australia and North America. There is also a native flora in this grove. Of the fauna of the park, the Hawaiian goose is especially noteworthy - at one time this bird practically became extinct in these lands, but through the efforts of enthusiasts its population was restored.
Haleakalā National Park, located on the island of Maui in Hawaii, is renowned for its stunning volcanic landscapes, unique flora and fauna, and breathtaking views. Here are some of the best hiking trails in the park:
Sliding Sands Trail (Keonehe'ehe'e Trail):
Distance: Variable (up to 11 miles round trip)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Description: This trail descends into the Haleakalā Crater, offering panoramic views of volcanic landscapes, cinder cones, and colorful rock formations. It can be a challenging hike due to the high elevation and steep terrain.
Halemau'u Trail:
Distance: Variable (up to 7 miles round trip)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Description: This trail traverses through Halemau'u Crater, passing by native shrublands and offering views of volcanic features like Pu'u o Pele. It can be combined with other trails for longer hikes.
Pipiwai Trail:
Distance: 4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: Located in the Kīpahulu District of the park, this trail takes hikers through lush bamboo forests, past waterfalls including the famous Waimoku Falls, and offers distant ocean views.
Waihou Spring Trail:
Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Description: A short, easy trail that starts near the Kīpahulu Visitor Center and leads through a native Hawaiian forest to a historic spring and pool.
Hosmer Grove Trail:
Distance: 0.5 miles loop
Difficulty: Easy
Description: This short loop trail near the park entrance provides a glimpse into the native forest ecosystem of Haleakalā, with informational signs about the area's unique flora and fauna.
Pa Ka'oao (White Hill) Trail:
Distance: 0.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Description: Located near the summit area, this short trail leads to Pa Ka'oao (White Hill), offering expansive views of the crater and surrounding landscapes. It's a great spot for sunrise or sunset viewing.
When hiking in Haleakalā National Park, especially on trails that descend into the crater, be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, high elevation (up to 10,023 feet at the summit), and strong sun exposure. Carry plenty of water, wear layers of clothing, and be mindful of the park's fragile ecosystems.
Official name - HALEAKALA National Park
Mailing Address:
Haleakalā National Park
PO Box 369
Makawao, HI 96768
Coordinates: 20°43′0″N 156°10′0″W
Established - July 1, 1961
Visitors 1,044,084
Area 33,265 acres
