HALEAKALA
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 33,264 ACRES

EST. 07 01 1961

HAWAII

Planning a Trip to
Haleakala National Park

Haleakala National Park is an incredible place to explore on the Hawaiian island of Maui. Located on the East side of the island, Haleakala National Park is known for its spectacular views of the surrounding area, its diverse plant and animal life, and its many hiking trails. The park encompasses 33,265 acres of land and is home to the highest point in the state of Hawaii, with an elevation of 10,023 feet. Visitors to the park can experience a variety of landscapes, ranging from lush rainforest and waterfalls, to barren volcanic craters and desert-like conditions. There are ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration, including camping, hiking, bird watching, and more. Whether you are looking for a peaceful escape or an adventurous journey, Haleakala National Park has something for everyone.

"the grandest of all special temples of Nature" and "the only one of the world's great parks that could not be improved."
- John Muir

"In God's wildness lies the hope of the world - the great fresh unblighted, unredeemed wilderness. The galling harness of civilization drops off, and wounds heal ere we are aware.
-Theodore Roosevelt

BEST TIME TO GO

Spring (March-May): Spring is the perfect time to explore the unique landscape of Haleakalā National Park. Temperatures are mild and the views are spectacular. Hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing are popular activities during this time of year.

Summer (June-August): Summer is the busiest time of year at Haleakalā National Park. Temperatures can be quite hot so it is important to wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water. Sightseeing, camping, and stargazing are all popular activities during this season.

Autumn (September-November): Fall is a perfect time to explore the park. Temperatures are cooler and the views are stunning. Hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing are all popular activities during this season.

Winter (December-February): Winter is the least popular time of year to visit Haleakalā National Park. Temperatures can be quite cold and there is a chance of snow. However, the views can be breathtaking and the park is relatively quiet. Stargazing and wildlife watching are popular activities during this season.

Haleakala National Park is a beautiful destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on the activities you plan to participate in. The summer months of June through August offer the best weather for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. During this time, temperatures are in the 70s and 80s, with minimal rainfall.

For those interested in stargazing, the winter months of December through March are the best time to visit. During this time, the skies are clear, making for perfect viewing conditions.

Bird watchers will have the best luck from October to March when the park is full of migrating species.

Finally, those who wish to avoid crowds should plan their trip for the shoulder seasons of April and May, or September and October. The park is still open and the weather is mild, but without the summer crowds.

OVERVIEW

Haleakala National Park is a stunning park on the Hawaiian island of Maui. It is home to the dormant Haleakala volcano, lush rainforests, and some of the world's best hiking and biking trails. With incredible views, unique flora and fauna, and a rich cultural history, Haleakala National Park is one of the best places to explore in Hawaii. The best things about Haleakala National Park are the diverse landscapes and activities, the breathtaking views, and the abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore the crater, hike through the dense rainforest, and take in the stunning views from the top of the volcano. There is also a wide variety of flora and fauna, from the rare silversword plant to the endangered Hawaiian goose. The park is also home to a wealth of cultural sites, including petroglyphs, heiau, and archaeological sites.

WEATHER

Haleakala National Park is known for its diverse climates, ranging from tropical rainforest to subalpine desert. The weather at the park varies significantly depending on elevation and the time of year. During the summer months, the lower elevations of the park (below 5,000 feet) can experience temperatures in the 70s and 80s with higher levels of humidity. However, the higher elevations (above 6,000 feet) can experience temperatures in the 40s and 50s and it can become very windy. Rainfall is common through the winter months, especially in the lowland areas of the park. It is wise to come prepared for any type of weather, no matter the season.

Haleakalā National Park is home to an incredible variety of plants and animals. The park's unique ecology is defined by its diverse landscape, which includes a rainforest, subalpine shrubland, grassland, and desert. The park is also home to a wide range of bird species, including the endangered Hawaiian goose, or nene. Additionally, Haleakalā National Park is home to a variety of native plants, including the silversword, which only grows in the park's high-altitude shrubland. The park is also home to a number of threatened and endangered species, such as the Hawaiian tree snail and the Hawaiian hoary bat. The park's unique ecology is an important part of Hawaii's natural heritage.

GEAR

Visiting Haelakala National Park is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Maui. To make the most of your trip, it is important to have the right gear. Here is a list of the top 10 camping gear you should bring to Haelakala National Park:
1. Tent
2. Sleeping Bag
3. Flashlight
4. Water Bottle
5. Sunscreen
6. Bug Repellent
7. First-Aid Kit
8. Camping Stove
9. Camping Chair
10. Hiking Boots
With these essentials, you'll be prepared for the best camping experience possible in Haelakala National Park!

Haleakala National Park is a great place for outdoor activities, and having the right gear can make your experience even better. Here are the top 10 pieces of gear to get for your next trip to Haleakala National Park:

1. Hiking boots: Sturdy and comfortable footwear for the trails.
2. Sun protection: Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to keep you safe from the sun.
3. Backpack: To keep you organized and hands-free while exploring.
4. Camera: Capturing your memories and scenic views of the park.
5. Binoculars: To spot wildlife from a distance.
6. Water: Stay hydrated while you explore the park.
7. Flashlight: For nighttime adventures.
8. Windbreaker: To keep you comfortable in windy conditions.
9. Trekking poles: To help you balance while hiking.
10. Insect repellent: To keep pesky bugs away.

GEAR UP

HISTORY

Haleakalā National Park was first established as a National Park in 1916. It is the oldest National Park in Hawaii and one of the oldest in the United States. The park was created to protect the unique and fragile ecosystem of the summit of Haleakalā, a dormant volcano on the island of Maui. The area is home to rare and endangered species of plants and animals, as well as a variety of native Hawaiian cultural sites. The park is also known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and its colorful sunrise and sunset displays. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including camping, hiking, bird watching, and horseback riding.

The Haelakal National Park is full of legendary stories. One of the most iconic is the legend of the Haelakalian dragon. According to the legend, a giant dragon lived in the caves of the park and would emerge to terrorize the nearby villages. The villagers eventually banded together and slayed the dragon, and it is said that its bones are still scattered throughout the park. Another legend tells of a brave warrior who ventured into the caves of the park and emerged with a magical sword, which he used to protect the villages. These legendary stories have made Haelakal National Park a popular destination for adventurers and storytellers alike.

RECOMMENDED

1. Go on a sunrise hike up to the summit of Haleakalā for stunning views of the crater and surrounding landscape.
2. Take a guided horseback ride to explore the backcountry trails of Haleakalā.
3. Go stargazing at the summit of Haleakalā and explore the night sky with a telescope.
4. Take a guided off-road tour through the crater of Haleakalā and learn about the unique flora and fauna found there.
5. Visit the coastal area of Kahakuloa Bay and take a kayak tour of the rugged shoreline.
6. Hike the Pipiwai Trail and take in the beauty of the cascading Makahiku Falls.
7. Explore the crater of Haleakalā on a mountain bike and enjoy the challenging terrain.
8. Go on a guided bird-watching tour of Haleakalā and learn about the native birds of the area.
9. Visit the historic Kaʻahumanu Church and learn about the history of Maui’s monarchy.
10. Take a guided tour of the Haleakalā silversword plant and learn about the rare and endangered species.

Haleakalā National Park is a stunning destination for any season. Here are our top 10 recommendations for each season:

Spring: Take a scenic drive to the summit of Haleakalā, take a guided sunrise or stargazing tour, go on a nature hike, take a bike ride down the slopes, spot native birds, or join a ranger-led activity.

Summer: Take a dip in the Seven Sacred Pools, go horseback riding, catch a glimpse of the Haleakalā silversword, explore the Ka Luu o ka Oo Cinder Cone, go on a bird watching tour, or take a nature walk.

Autumn: Go on a scenic drive to the summit of Haleakalā, take a guided sunrise or stargazing tour, go horseback riding, take a bike ride down the slopes, spot native birds, or join a ranger-led activity.

Winter: Take a dip in the Seven Sacred Pools, go on a snowshoe tour, explore the Ka Luu o ka Oo Cinder Cone, go on a bird watching tour, take a nature walk, or join a ranger-led activity.

GET HERE

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Haleakala National Park is home to some of the most breathtaking hikes in Hawaii. Here are the top 10 hikes at the park and their respective difficulty level:
1. Sliding Sands Trail: Moderate
2. Halemauu Trail: Moderate
3. Silversword Loop Trail: Moderate
4. Hosmer Grove Nature Trail: Easy
5. Kaupo Gap Trail: Difficult
6. Waimoku Falls Trail: Difficult
7. Keoneheehee (Sliding Sands) Trail: Moderate
8. Halemau`u Trail to Holua Cabin: Moderate
9. Ka Luu o ka Oo Trail: Difficult
10. Halemau`u Trail to Kalahaku Overlook: Moderate

Haleakala National Park offers some of the best camping sites in Hawaii. Here are our top 10 campsites at Haleakala National Park:

1. Hosmer Grove Campground,

2. Kipahulu Campground,

3. Holua Campground,

4. Palikū Campground,

5. Waikamoi Campground,

6. Waikamoi Ridge Trail Camp,

7. La Perouse Bay Campground,

8. Kapalaoa Campground,

9. Halemauu Trail Camp, and

10. Holua Cabin.

Each of these sites offers breathtaking views of the park, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

FIND A CAMPSITE

# OF VISITORS/MONTH

Haleakala National Park is one of Hawaii's most visited sites, with over 1.5 million visitors annually. Each month, the park sees an average of 150,000 visitors. In 2020, the park experienced a decrease in visitors due to the pandemic, with the lowest amount of visitors being in April at 28,000. The highest number of visitors was in December at 245,000. The park has seen a steady increase in visitors over the years, with the highest number of visitors in 2019 at 1.8 million. Visitors to Haleakala National Park can enjoy beautiful views, hiking trails, and a variety of wildlife.