Haleakala
Standing at over 10,000 feet, it’s not only Maui’s most impressive natural landmark; it’s the largest dormant volcano on Earth. Forming the entire base of East Maui, magnificent Haleakala (House of the Sun), and the surrounding Haleakala National Park, attract almost 1.5 million visitors a year. According to Hawaiian legend, in ancienttimes the demigod Maui lassoed the sun at the summit of Haleakala, forcing it to slow its progress across the sky. The longer days allowed Maui’s mother Hina more sunlight to dry her kapa cloth.
Tip: Haleakala is so large that it generates it’s own weather – which is sometimes very different from the rest of the island. You can find out current weather conditions at the top by calling (808) 572-4400.
Today the sun-drenched crater of Haleakala is one of Maui’s most spectacular sites. Whatever you do on the island, there is no escaping Haleakala’s allure. Some will rise in the wee hours of the morning and make the dark drive to the crater rim to experience a legendary Haleakala sunrise. Others will follow later in the day, to explore its hiking trails with hopes of spotting the fabled Nene goose. Still others will admire it from below, from the farms of Upland Maui or on the famous Road to Hana, which hugs the volcano’s rugged northern slope.
Most visitors head to the summit of Haleakala to enjoy the views down into the crater. The drive itself is fascinating, through diverse landscapes dotted with native Hawaiian plants and wildlife. The lesser known but equally dramatic entrance point to Haleakala National Park is the lush valley of Kipahulu, ten miles south of Hana. The remote coastal area is rich in Hawaiian history and tradition, and is home to many beautiful freshwater pools and waterfalls including the famous Pools of Oheo.
- Haleakala National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except for severe weather closures.
- The Park Headquarters Visitor Center, the Haleakala Visitor Center, and the Kipahulu Visitor Center all feature cultural and natural history exhibits, gifts, and special programs. Naturalists are on duty during business hours to answer your questions.
- However you decide to experience Haleakala, bring suitable gear, food, and water. There is no food or gas available in the park, so fill up the gas tank and the cooler before heading out.
