This special place vibrates with stories of ancient and modern Hawaiian culture and protects the bond between the land and its people. The park also cares for endangered species, some of which exist nowhere else. Come visit this special place - renew your spirit amid stark volcanic landscapes and sub-tropical rain forest with an unforgettable hike through the backcountry.
No reviewed guidance for this selection. Check the park's official planning pages; missing coverage does not establish access.
Selected guidance only; separate from climate comfort and current conditions.
The conditions feed has not been connected for this park.
Check current conditions at NPS ↗Allow 1–3 days for a first look. A useful base: Maui upcountry / Hana district.
Summit and Kīpahulu are separated by long drives. Summit sunrise access may require a reservation; altitude matters.
Explore the summit area during a suitable weather window. Use open viewpoints and short walks; sunrise is optional and depends on reservations.
Explore activities & planning detailsVisit the separate Kīpahulu district and choose an appropriate rainforest trail if open. Allow substantial travel time and check flood conditions.
Explore activities & planning detailsEditorial recommendations, reviewed 2026-10-17. Full park days, excluding travel to and from the region. A first-visit outline for a general traveler; adapt to mobility, fitness, season, reservations, and current conditions. These are suggested days, not reserved activities or guaranteed routes.
Official NPS activity guide.
Forest and Kim Starr
With over 30 miles (48 km) of hiking trails, that range from just 10 minutes to multi-day overnight trips, there are many options in the Summit District. You can hike in the native shrubland, looking for native forest birds and endemic plants, or in the aeolian cinder desert, exploring the geologic history of the volcano.
Trails are strenuous in the Summit Area because the high-elevation causes a lower concentration of oxygen in each breath. Altitude sickness is a concern. Be on guard for symptoms: nausea, headache, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Pregnant women and people with heart or respiratory conditions should consult their doctor before visiting and hiking in the Summit Area. When beginning your hike on a downward slope, allow for twice the time hiking to get out, e.g. 15 minutes hiking down + 30 minutes up = 45 minute hike. Soft cinder trails create hiking conditions similiar to walking on a beach in some areas.
Temperatures commonly range between 30 to 65 degrees F (-1 to +18 degrees C), and can reach below freezing at any time with the wind-chill factor. Hypothermia is a danger. Hikers must be properly prepared for high altitudes and cold, rainy conditions. Weather in the Summit Area is unpredictable and ever-changing. Prepare for harsh UV rays, wind, rain, and cold temperatures year-round. What to bring: - Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunblock) - Cold/wet weather clothing (raingear, pants, jacket, poncho) - Food (no food for sale in the park) - Water bottles (drinking water available at all visitor centers) - Sturdy shoes (hiking boots or athletic shoes)
Jonathan Irish, National Geographic
- Kaupō Trail is not within park boundaries and is not maintained by NPS - It is a rugged, unimproved trail and injuries have occurred - Visitors go at their own risk - NPS recommends that visitors use Crater trails only
NPS Photo J. Mansfield
This remote district is only accessible via the Hana Highway. Prepare for hot, humid, rainy weather. Enjoy hiking to two waterfalls, camping in the Kīpahulu Campground , cultural demonstrations, and exhibits. Due to flash floods and rock slides, swimming is not recommended in ‘Ohe‘o Gulch.
We need your kōkua (help) to deter a plant disease from reaching native forests on Maui. Learn how you can do your part to help stop the spread of rapid ʻŌhiʻa death .
| Trail name | Description | Distance and elevation change |
|---|---|---|
| Trail name | Description | Distance/elevation change |
| Pā Ka‘oao OPEN | Hike up the pu‘u next to Haleakalā Visitor Center to view ancient rock wall shelters and the crater. | 0.4 mile (0.64 km) round trip.100 ft (30 m) elevation change. |
| Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) OPEN | Hike downhill into the crater. The trailhead is in the Haleakalā Visitor Center parking lot near the road. | Distance to the first overlook is 0.50 mile (0.8 km) round trip, with a 50 ft (15 m) elevation change. Beyond that, refer to distances and elevations on the map. |
| Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) OPEN | Hike across the crater to Halemau'u Trail. The trailhead is in the Haleakalā Visitor Center parking lot near the road. | A popular 11-mile (17.8 km) full-day hike begins at Keonehe‘ehe‘e Trailhead, crosses the valley floor, and ends at Halemau'u (7,990 ft/2,436 m elevation). The park cannot offer hiker shuttles, so consider using the “hiker pick-up” near here. Points of interest: The "crater floor" is 3.9 miles down one way. The elevation change is almost 2,500 ft/762 m. "Pele's Paint Pot" (about 5.7 miles in) is roughly the halfway point of this hike, near the north side of Halāli'i cinder cone. Kawilinau (also about 5.7 miles in) was formerly called the "bottomless pit." The volcanic pit is 65 feet deep. View both of these areas after reaching the crater floor and heading north towards Halemau'u. Note: Plan ahead! Park visitation slows in inclement weather, decreasing the number of visitors who might offer you a ride up to Keonehe'ehe'e Trail parking lot. We recommend parking your vehicle at Halemau'u and hitchhiking up to Keonehe'ehe'e at the beginning of your hike . Upon concluding your hike, you will have immediate access to your vehicle at Halemau'u. |
| Trail Name | Description | Distance and elevation change |
| Leleiwi Overlook OPEN | Carefully cross the park road to the trailhead for a short walk to a crater viewpoint. | 0.30 mile (0.48 km) roundtrip. 100 ft (30 m) elevation change. |
| Halemau‘u Trail OPEN | Hike 1.1 miles (1.8 km) on a rocky path to a crater viewpoint. A popular destination on this hike is a natural land bridge commonly referred to as " Rainbow Bridge ." This area is about 0.25 miles from the first crater viewpoint. Hiking past this will take you down switchbacks carved into the crater walls. It is a little over 2 miles one way to reach the crater floor from the trailhead. | 2.2 miles (3.6 km) round trip. 400 ft (123 m) elevation change. |
| Supply Trail OPEN | Hike to the junction with the Halemau'u Trail . | 4.6 miles (7.4 km) roundtrip. 975 ft (297 m) elevation change. |
| Hosmer Grove OPEN | Compare non-native trees (planted before the park’s establishment, to control erosion) and native shrubland. View honeycreepers found nowhere else on earth. | 0.54 mile (0.87 km) loop trail. 50 ft (15 m) elevation change. |
| Pīpīwai Trail OPEN | Take a hike up a trail that winds through a freshwater stream and diverse forest areas with views of waterfalls and other natural features. This trail is moderately strenuous. Points of interest: Makahiku Overlook will give you your first glimpse of a waterfall, Makahiku Falls, at 0.5 miles in. The bamboo forest can be found about one mile in. Visitors can expect to see boardwalks and footbridges. Waimoku Falls viewing area brings visitors to the end of Pīpīwai Trail after two miles (one way). This hike to this area gains 800 feet in elevation. Note: check and comply with posted trail closures before heading out. Off-trail travel is dangerous and illegal. | 4 miles (roundtrip), 800 ft elevation change. |
| Kūloa Point Trail OPEN | This trail leaves the Kīpahulu Visitor Center and continues past a Hawaiian cultural demonstration area to Kuloa Point at the mouth of 'Ohe'o Gulch. Here, you will find beautiful ocean views and archaeological sites. This trail is popular for viewing the Pools of 'Ohe'o. The pools are sometimes closed to swimming because of hazardous conditions. The "alerts" section of the page will inform you of pool/stream closures. | 0.5 mi (total), 80 ft elevation change |
| Trail name | Description | Distance/elevation change |
| Pā Ka‘oao OPEN | Hike up the pu‘u next to Haleakalā Visitor Center to view ancient rock wall shelters and the crater. | 0.4 mile (0.64 km) round trip.100 ft (30 m) elevation change. |
| Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) OPEN | Hike downhill into the crater. The trailhead is in the Haleakalā Visitor Center parking lot near the road. | Distance to the first overlook is 0.50 mile (0.8 km) round trip, with a 50 ft (15 m) elevation change. Beyond that, refer to distances and elevations on the map. |
| Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) OPEN | Hike across the crater to Halemau'u Trail. The trailhead is in the Haleakalā Visitor Center parking lot near the road. | A popular 11-mile (17.8 km) full-day hike begins at Keonehe‘ehe‘e Trailhead, crosses the valley floor, and ends at Halemau'u (7,990 ft/2,436 m elevation). The park cannot offer hiker shuttles, so consider using the “hiker pick-up” near here. Points of interest: The "crater floor" is 3.9 miles down one way. The elevation change is almost 2,500 ft/762 m. "Pele's Paint Pot" (about 5.7 miles in) is roughly the halfway point of this hike, near the north side of Halāli'i cinder cone. Kawilinau (also about 5.7 miles in) was formerly called the "bottomless pit." The volcanic pit is 65 feet deep. View both of these areas after reaching the crater floor and heading north towards Halemau'u. Note: Plan ahead! Park visitation slows in inclement weather, decreasing the number of visitors who might offer you a ride up to Keonehe'ehe'e Trail parking lot. We recommend parking your vehicle at Halemau'u and hitchhiking up to Keonehe'ehe'e at the beginning of your hike . Upon concluding your hike, you will have immediate access to your vehicle at Halemau'u. |
| Trail Name | Description | Distance and elevation change |
| Leleiwi Overlook OPEN | Carefully cross the park road to the trailhead for a short walk to a crater viewpoint. | 0.30 mile (0.48 km) roundtrip. 100 ft (30 m) elevation change. |
| Halemau‘u Trail OPEN | Hike 1.1 miles (1.8 km) on a rocky path to a crater viewpoint. A popular destination on this hike is a natural land bridge commonly referred to as " Rainbow Bridge ." This area is about 0.25 miles from the first crater viewpoint. Hiking past this will take you down switchbacks carved into the crater walls. It is a little over 2 miles one way to reach the crater floor from the trailhead. | 2.2 miles (3.6 km) round trip. 400 ft (123 m) elevation change. |
| Supply Trail OPEN | Hike to the junction with the Halemau'u Trail . | 4.6 miles (7.4 km) roundtrip. 975 ft (297 m) elevation change. |
| Hosmer Grove OPEN | Compare non-native trees (planted before the park’s establishment, to control erosion) and native shrubland. View honeycreepers found nowhere else on earth. | 0.54 mile (0.87 km) loop trail. 50 ft (15 m) elevation change. |
| Trail name | Description | Distance and elevation change |
|---|---|---|
| Pīpīwai Trail OPEN | Take a hike up a trail that winds through a freshwater stream and diverse forest areas with views of waterfalls and other natural features. This trail is moderately strenuous. Points of interest: Makahiku Overlook will give you your first glimpse of a waterfall, Makahiku Falls, at 0.5 miles in. The bamboo forest can be found about one mile in. Visitors can expect to see boardwalks and footbridges. Waimoku Falls viewing area brings visitors to the end of Pīpīwai Trail after two miles (one way). This hike to this area gains 800 feet in elevation. Note: check and comply with posted trail closures before heading out. Off-trail travel is dangerous and illegal. | 4 miles (roundtrip), 800 ft elevation change. |
| Kūloa Point Trail OPEN | This trail leaves the Kīpahulu Visitor Center and continues past a Hawaiian cultural demonstration area to Kuloa Point at the mouth of 'Ohe'o Gulch. Here, you will find beautiful ocean views and archaeological sites. This trail is popular for viewing the Pools of 'Ohe'o. The pools are sometimes closed to swimming because of hazardous conditions. The "alerts" section of the page will inform you of pool/stream closures. | 0.5 mi (total), 80 ft elevation change |
NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS
Official NPS activity guide.
Explore how to make a reservation for sunrise at Haleakalā National Park.
In order to view sunrise at Haleakalā National Park, you will need to make a reservation ahead of time.
Reservations can be made online up to 60 days in advance of your sunrise visit on recreation.gov and are only valid for the day reserved. These tickets are released at 7:00 am HST.
A portion of reservations for any given day will be released 2 days (48 hours) in advance
A visitor may only purchase one sunrise reservation per three-day period.
Upon arrival, please have the reservation holder present with valid ID, reservation confirmation email, and your park pass or a way to purchase one.
Please note that calling the park directly, or visiting in-person, will not result in a reservation. Staff at Haleakalā National Park are unable to make reservations for you.
Reservations will not be refunded or exchanged due to weather.
Visit the sunrise frequently asked questions page for more information.
For questions, call the recreation.gov help line at 1-877-444-6777.
Click Sign In or Sign Up to log in to your account or create a new one
Visit the page for sunrise reservations
Click the Book Now button under the first tab labeled Tour Park Details . This will take you to the next tab.
Click the Enter Date button under " Online** availability ."
Select the tour date for ticket availability , and enter " 1 " for number of tickets. Click Find Tour Times .
Select the 3:00 AM - 7:00 AM option.
Enter the number of vehicles as " 1 " again.
Click Book Tour .
Have the permit holder present a valid ID and reservation upon arrival at the park entrance station.
Weather immediately before dawn and immediately after dusk are regularly wet, windy, and below freezing.
There is no food, clothing, or gas for sale in the park.
The road up and down the mountain does not have streetlights or guard rails.
Drive time between the entrance gate and the summit is about 30 minutes.
Parking is restricted to designated lots only.
Parking lots will close when full.
For a more solitary experience, visit Leleiwi or Kalahaku overlooks.
Haleakalā is sacred to Native Hawaiians. If you see people practicing cultural traditions, please respect their practices and do not disturb them.
Staying overnight within Haleakalā National Park is only allowed in a designated camping area. Reservations can be made at Hosmer Grove Campground in the summit district or in Kīpahulu Campground in the coastal district. Staying overnight or sleeping within a vehicle outside of a campground is prohibited.
NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS
Official NPS activity guide.
Ranger Programs
Plants & Animals
The Summit District
History & Culture
Safety & Preparedness
There are plenty of opportunities for visitors to experience the wonders of Kīpahulu. You can take a hike! Observe the streams from the Pīpīwai trail and see if you can spot the freshwater shrimp and rock-climbing goby. Take a look at our calendar and join us for a ranger program . Rangers are available at the Visitor Center to answer questions, offer suggestions, and talk story. Drive-up camping is available in Kīpahulu although it is often wet, remote, and far from most amenities. Be sure to learn more about current conditions and brush up on the rules and regulations before finalizing any plans. The Pools of ʻOheʻo in the Kīpahulu District are not accessible for entry due to a number of safety concerns. While visiting the park, you are responsible for your own safety. It is important to obey all posted signs and heed all safety warnings. The pools can be viewed safely from the Kūloa Point Trail.
NPS / Jake McFee
The Kīpahulu District protects multiple intact ahupua'a . An ahupuaʻa is a traditional Native Hawaiian land division that protects all resources from sea to summit. The streams are home to endemic gobies and other fish species that evolved from ancient salt water ancestors. The following information will help you have a safe and enjoyable visit.
Dress for hot, humid, rainy weather.
Fill up your gas tank and bring food. Neither are available in the park.
Bring water, sunscreen, mosquito repellant, and wear sturdy shoes.
Pay the entrance fee with a credit card.
Kīpahulu is remote. Emergency medical assistance is at least one hour away.
Leave natural resources and cultural artifacts, rocks, and structures alone.
Flash floods and sudden rock falls can occur at any time! Entry and wading in the streams is not recommended. Always stay out of closed areas.
Listen to the Music of Bamboo Bamboo Forest
Ma Ka Hana Ka ʻIke Hale Hālāwai
Witness the Power of Water Makahiku Falls
NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS
Official NPS activity guide.
When you look up at your night sky at home, what do you see? Everyone has a unique view of their night sky. At Haleakalā National Park, visitors can enjoy pristine dark skies from the summit. Due to its high elevation, the atmosphere is often clearer and light pollution is minimal, allowing for ideal viewing conditions. For stargazers coming from more northern latitudes, the stellar views might appear a little different than what you’re used to! Check out our tips for stargazing at the summit below.
While the summit area can be quite warm during the day, depending on the weather, the temperature can drop quickly when the sun goes down! Proper preparation can make or break a stargazing trip, so keep the following pointers in mind:
Dress warmly. Bring layers, including a hat, coat, long pants, and warm shoes.
Bring something to sit on. To get the most out of the experience, it’s best to sit or lay down. Bring a towel, blanket, chair, or mat to insulate you from the ground and keep you comfortable.
Bring your own snacks. Even during daytime hours, there is no food or drinks available in the park. You’ll be glad you brought along that hot chocolate!
Drive carefully. As you make your way into the park, be aware that wildlife may become disoriented by your vehicle’s lights or land on the road. There are no lights or guardrails on the road up to or through the park. Obey all speed limits on your way into and out of the park.
Staying overnight within Haleakalā National Park is only allowed in a designated camping area. Reservations can be made at Hosmer Grove Campground in the summit district or in Kīpahulu Campground in the coastal district. Staying overnight or sleeping within a vehicle outside of a campground is prohibited.
NPS Photo / KEM
Give your eyes time to adjust to the darkness. Turn off all white lights (including phones!) so your eyes can make out even more stars above. If you have red lights, use those instead, but only when necessary.
Bring some star knowledge. Whether you like a printed star chart or a smartphone app, be prepared with the tools you need to orient yourself to the night sky.
Just relax! Stargazing does not have to be an academic venture. Simply look up and let your eyes wander. If you can’t remember of figure out your constellations, invent your own! Take time to just watch the stars rising and setting above you.
Remember that Haleakalā is both a sacred and natural place. Native Hawaiians continue to practice their cultural traditions at the summit, and endangered and endemic species like the ʻuaʻu (Hawaiian Petrel) call this place home. Obey all park rules and regulations during your stargazing visit, including:
Staying on paved and established trails
Packing out any trash that you bring in
Refraining from taking home rocks, cinder, or any other natural features
Avoiding being loud or disruptive, out of respect for the Hawaiian culture, fellow visitors, and the parkʻs animals.
Bishop Museum’s Monthly Star Charts
ʻImiloa Astronomy Center’s Monthly Star Charts
National Park Service Night Skies
NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS
Official NPS activity guide.
Deepen your understanding of the rich cultural and environmental tapestry of Haleakalā National Park at a guided activity. Park ranger staff lead hikes, talks, and special events throughout the year for the public to enjoy. Check out our events calendar to learn the specifics of each program.
Junior Rangers of all ages can complete an activity booklet and earn a badge every day—swing by a visitor center as ask how to become a Junior Ranger.
Who says learning can’t be fun? Take advantage of the educational opportunities at Haleakalā. For ranger-guided field trips, visit our education resources.
View a list of commercial tour operators that provide private tours into the park. Visit the Friends of Haleakalā National Park for information on volunter service trips that include day trips and overnight excursions.
NPS/Meagan Kubojiri
NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS
Official NPS activity guide.
Staying overnight within Haleakalā National Park is only allowed in a designated camping area. Reservations can be made at Hosmer Grove Campground in the summit district or in Kīpahulu Campground in the coastal district. Staying overnight or sleeping within a vehicle outside of a campground is prohibited. Visitors to Haleakalā National Park have three different options for staying overnight. Both the Summit District and the Kīpahulu District offer frontcountry, drive-up camping. Tent camping and cabin camping are available with applicable permits and reservations. Take note there is a maximum of three (3) overnight stays total for all Haleakalā National Park areas in a thirty day period. Pets are not permitted in or around campsite facilities. Remember to check current conditions prior to planning a camping trip at the park.
Learn about camping at Hosmer Grove.
Learn how to reserve a site in the Kīpahulu Campground
Historic cabins available for reservations.
NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS
Official NPS activity guide.
Hiking in the Wilderness
Safety and Preparedness
Wilderness Camping
Wilderness in the National Park Service
Molten earth, erosional forces, and ocean have worked in concert over millennia to shape the land that is today Haleakalā National Park. Over 90% of the native biota of Haleakalā National Park are endemic to the Hawaiian Islands with nearly 50% endemic to Maui. The unique variety of terrain, vegetation, and scenery found here successfully capture the broad spectrum of ecology found across the Hawaiian Islands and specifically on the island of Maui. An unexpected and dramatic landscape at the top of the world, the Wilderness Area encompasses 24,719 acres and countless microclimates. Elevation change from rim to the floor can be 3,000 feet (914m). The Wilderness trails lead from dry desert terrain dotted with towering cinder cones to cloudforests alive with colorful flora and fauna. Nēnē and endemic honeycreepers can be seen in the lower, wetter parts of the Wilderness area during the day. At night, stars saturate the sky and rare seabirds let out a haunting cry. The Haleakalā Wilderness is unlike anywhere else on the planet.
With the proper preparation, visitors can day hike, spend the night in a tent at one of the two Wilderness campgrounds , or reserve one of the three historic cabins along the trail. The Wilderness Area of Haleakalā can be accessed by two mountaintop trailheads: Halemauʻu Trailhead at 8000 feet (2438m), and Keoneheʻeheʻe (or Sliding Sands) near the summit at 9740 feet (2969m). Learn more about planning a trip into the Wilderness area by visiting the park's Hiking page. The Wilderness Area is remote and encompasses extreme environments. Conditions can change quickly and help is not always immediately accessible. When planning to enter the Wilderness Area, review the park's tips on Safety to make sure the trip is an enjoyable one!
Overnight camping and cabin use requires a reservation, obtained in advance online at Recreation.gov .
Check current conditions before heading out for a hike of any length by speaking with park staff at a visitor center or over the phone.
Weather can be severe and unpredictable. Bring rain gear, sun protection, and layers to be prepared for changing conditions.
Water is scarce. There are no dependable, natural sources of water in the park. Cabin areas have water that must be filtered, and dry conditions may make this option unavailable.
Altitude can significantly affect a hiker's health and ability. Seek help if experiencing the signs of altitude sickness.
NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS
Official NPS activity guide.
Sunrise at the Summit
Safety and Preparedness
Ranger Programs
No place can prepare you for the experiences and feelings you will have on the summit of Haleakalā volcano. The landscape—deeply sculpted, richly colored, and forever changing—is unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Spend a few hours hiking in the cinder desert landscape or just a few minutes looking for rare forest birds in the native shrubland. Whatever you choose to do, you will do it surrounded by native Hawaiian plants and animals. The summit is one of the few easily-accessible places in Hawai‘i where our rare and endemic species survive and thrive.
NPS / Megan Miller
Visitors have a number of opportunities to experience the Summit District. Many will choose to embark on hikes throughout our varying ecosystems. Camping is an option, though anyone thinking about camping in the park should check the rules and regulations, along with current conditions , before finalizing plans. You don't have to go far or stay long to get a sense of the remote and windswept summit, however. Make reservations for viewing sunrise in the park, or plan for an evening trip to soak up the stars . Whatever you do, keep safety in mind. The remote and intense environment of the Summit District calls for good preparation and situational awareness.
Dress warmly. Be prepared for all kinds of weather. Temperatures at the summit are at least 20 degrees colder than at sea level and often drop below freezing.
Fill up your gas tank and bring food. Neither are available in the park.
There are no charging stations for electric vehicles at Haleakalā National Park. Even electric vehicles with a full charge have been unable to make it to the Summit.
Bring water and sunscreen and wear sturdy shoes.
Pay the entrance fee with a credit card.
Always respect speed limits. The park road goes through endangered species habitat.
Please leave natural resources and cultural artifacts, rocks, and structures alone.
Please be quiet and respectful. The summit is sacred to Native Hawaiians.
The summit is remote. Emergency medical assistance is at least one hour away.
NPS information imported 2026-10-17. Confirm current details at NPS
Open an activity to read its details here. Source links open in a new tab; check current conditions and permit requirements before travel.
Official NPS features and USGS park boundaries, imported 2026-10-17. An inventory snapshot, not live trail or parking availability.
Map coverage varies. Trail names may represent segments, connectors, or shared park units; mapped lines are not a hiking recommendation. Use official conditions and navigation resources before heading out.
23 matching named trail records
| Trail / mapped route | Surface | Recorded uses |
|---|---|---|
| Inventory record · 5 source segments; not a route distance. | Unknown | Hike |
| Drawn**Pipiwai Trail **Hand Inventory record · 1 source segments; not a route distance. | Native | Hike |
| HALEMAUU TRAIL Inventory record · 10 source segments; not a route distance. Matched official trail-table values; may describe a larger route than this inventory feature.
Official trail detailsTrail name: Halemau‘u Trail OPEN Description: Hike 1.1 miles (1.8 km) on a rocky path to a crater viewpoint. A popular destination on this hike is a natural land bridge commonly referred to as " Rainbow Bridge ." This area is about 0.25 miles from the first crater viewpoint. Hiking past this will take you down switchbacks carved into the crater walls. It is a little over 2 miles one way to reach the crater floor from the trailhead. Distance and elevation change: 2.2 miles (3.6 km) round trip. 400 ft (123 m) elevation change. Read trail source | Native | Hike | PackOrSaddle |
| Halali'i Loop Inventory record · 2 source segments; not a route distance. | Native | Hike | PackOrSaddle |
| Holua Cabin Trail Inventory record · 1 source segments; not a route distance. | Native | Hike | PackOrSaddle |
| Hosmer Nature Trail Inventory record · 4 source segments; not a route distance. | Native | Hike |
| KAUPO TRAIL Inventory record · 6 source segments; not a route distance. | Native | Hike |
| KULOA PT LOOP TRAIL Inventory record · 6 source segments; not a route distance. | Native | Hike |
| KULOA PT TO CAMPGRND Inventory record · 1 source segments; not a route distance. | Native | Bike | Hike |
| Ka Moa o Pele Loop Inventory record · 2 source segments; not a route distance. | Native | Hike | PackOrSaddle |
| Kapalaoa Tail Inventory record · 5 source segments; not a route distance. | Native | Hike | PackOrSaddle |
| Kaupo Tail Inventory record · 2 source segments; not a route distance. | Native | Hike | PackOrSaddle |
| Leleiwi Overlook Inventory record · 1 source segments; not a route distance. Matched official trail-table values; may describe a larger route than this inventory feature.
Official trail detailsTrail name: Leleiwi Overlook OPEN Description: Carefully cross the park road to the trailhead for a short walk to a crater viewpoint. Distance and elevation change: 0.30 mile (0.48 km) roundtrip. 100 ft (30 m) elevation change. Read trail source | Unknown | Hike |
| Pa Ka'oao Trail Inventory record · 1 source segments; not a route distance. | Native | Hike |
| Paliku Cabin Trail Inventory record · 2 source segments; not a route distance. | Native | Hike | PackOrSaddle |
NPS public GIS inventory, imported 2026-10-17. “Existing” is an inventory classification, not confirmation that a trail is open. Segment counts are not route distances. Parking records do not indicate space availability, fees, or accessibility certification. View government source ↗
Climate for Kīhei, 29 km from the park reference point. 1991–2020 normals. Source elevation: 3 m.
Mountain, rim, valley, and coastal conditions can differ sharply from the source town. Check park forecasts and current conditions before travel.
| Month | High | Low | Rain / snow water | Wet days | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 77° | 67° | 43 mm | 5.4 | 10.9 h | |
| 76° | 67° | 32 mm | 5.0 | 11.3 h | |
| 77° | 67° | 46 mm | 5.7 | 11.9 h | |
| 79° | 69° | 20 mm | 3.6 | 12.5 h | |
| 80° | 70° | 15 mm | 3.9 | 13.0 h | |
| 82° | 72° | 6 mm | 1.8 | 13.2 h | |
| 83° | 73° | 10 mm | 2.6 | 13.1 h | |
| 84° | 73° | 13 mm | 2.7 | 12.7 h | |
| 84° | 73° | 10 mm | 2.7 | 12.1 h | |
| 83° | 72° | 21 mm | 3.7 | 11.5 h | |
| 80° | 71° | 24 mm | 3.8 | 11.0 h | |
| 78° | 68° | 47 mm | 4.3 | 10.8 h |
Official NPS excerpts imported 2026-10-17. Fees, permits, road access, and operations can change; use the source link to confirm the latest information.
Weather Details
As of January 1, 2020 For detailed information, visit the park's Fees & Passes page.
Internet & Cellular Access Details
Remember that all areas of Haleakalā National Park are fairly remote - stores, services, and lodging are all at least 30 minutes away. Plan for your trip by reading these pages to make sure you bring with you all that you need for a safe and comfortable trip.
Don't forget that you will be visiting a natural area with unpredictable weather - it may be hot, dry, wet, or cold in any part of the park at any time.
Staying overnight within Haleakalā National Park is only allowed in a designated camping area. Reservations can be made at Hosmer Grove Campground in the summit district or in Kīpahulu Campground in the coastal district. Staying overnight or sleeping within a vehicle outside of a campground is prohibited. Visitors to Haleakalā National Park have three different options for staying overnight. Both the Summit District and the Kīpahulu District offer frontcountry, drive-up camping. Tent camping and cabin camping are available with applicable permits and reservations. Take note there is a maximum of three (3) overnight stays total for all Haleakalā National Park areas in a thirty day period. Pets are not permitted in or around campsite facilities. Remember to check current conditions prior to planning a camping trip at the park.
Learn about camping at Hosmer Grove.
Learn how to reserve a site in the Kīpahulu Campground
Historic cabins available for reservations.
The Headquarters Visitor Center, Haleakalā Visitor Center, and Hosmer Grove picnic area are all accessible sites in the summit area. The Headquarters Visitor Center has an accessible exhibit featuring Hawaiian culture. Park brochures in Braile are available to borrow at the Headquarters Visitor Center information desk. A transcript is available for the backcountry orientation video at the Headquarters Visitor Center as well. Accessible restrooms are located at Haleakalā Visitor Center, Kalahaku Overlook, Park Headquarters Visitor Center, and Hosmer Grove. Accessible water fountains can be found at Park Headquarters Visitor Center, and Haleakalā Visitor Center. The summit building is accessible, with assistance, via a steep ramp. Park trails are currently unpaved and not suitable for wheelchair use.
The Kīpahulu Visitor Center is accessible, and there are accessible parking spaces and restrooms near the visitor center connected by a paved path. At this time the trails leading to the pools and the forest are muddy, steep, and rocky. Access beyond the paved trail is difficult for wheelchairs or for persons requiring assistance.
Get an entrance pass All visitors must have one of these entrance passes: Pass Price Standard Pass $15.00–$30.00 Annual Pass $55.00 Hawai'i Tri-Park Annual Pass $55.00 America the Beautiful Pass (includes Senior Passes) FREE–$250.00 Help me choose an entrance pass
Make a reservation This park has a timed entry system. You may need to make a reservation in advance. Reservations and timed entry
Plan to go cashless This park does not accept cash.
Required to attend sunrise at Haleakalā National Park.
A reservation is required for each vehicle entering the park from 3:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. You may book a reservation up to 60 days in advance and 2 days in advance of the start date.
If you already have an America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, that's the only entrance pass you need. Seniors, military, visitors with a permanent disability, and families with a 4th grader are eligible for a free or discounted America the Beautiful pass.
America the Beautiful Pass
If you don't qualify for a discounted America the Beautiful pass, we recommend choosing an entrance pass based on your trip plans.
Haleakalā National Park has a variety of annual pass options available. Annual passes are available to the general public including international visitors. Passes are valid for 12 months from purchase date and are non-transferable.
Hawai'i Tri-Park Annual Pass
If you enter the park in a motorized vehicle, your entrance pass covers both you and your passengers. Your passengers do not need a separate pass.
Costs for vehicles with more than 15 passengers are listed below under Organizations and Businesses .
Haleakalā National Park Summit District Entrance Station Credit/Debit Only
Haleakalā National Park Kīpahulu District Entrance Station Credit/Debit Only
If you enter the park on a bicycle or on foot and are at least 16 years old, you need your own entrance pass. Children under the age of 16 don't need an entrance pass.
$30.00 plus, $15.00 per person for road based tour vehicles, such as sedans, with a passenger carrying capacity of 1-7 people.
Valid for 12 months from purchase date. Admits the pass holders and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle (14 max capacity or less) to Haleakalā National Park, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and Puʻuhonua ʻO Hōnaunau National Historical Park. All other National Park sites in the state of Hawaiʻi do not charge an entrance fee.
US citizens and residents
Valid for 12 months from purchase month. Admits the pass holders and occupants in a private, non-commercial vehicle (15 max capacity or less), or passholder and 3 additional adults to Haleakalā National Park, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and Puʻuhonua ʻO Hōnaunau National Historical Park.
Covers entrance fees and standard amenity (day-use) fees at lands managed by
National Park Service
US Fish & Wildlife Service
US Forest Service
Bureau of Land Management
Bureau of Reclamation
US Army of Corps of Engineers
Depending on the type of entrance fee charged at a site, covers One private vehicle fee or Four per person fees
America the Beautiful Passes are non-refundable, non-transferable and cannot be replaced if lost or stolen . Passholders must show valid photo identification (ID) with each pass.
Physical passes can be purchased or picked up at over 1,000 federal recreation sites.
Purchase and pickup locations
To receive your pass by mail, order online at the USGS Online Store . Online orders are for physical passes, not digital passes, and may take up to three weeks to be processed and delivered. Order receipts may not be used in place of a physical pass. We recommend ordering at least three weeks in advance of your visit, or picking up a pass in person instead.
Skip the wait! Get a Digital America the Beautiful Pass through recreation.gov. Your digital pass can be saved to a mobile device and used immediately.
Get a Digital America the Beautiful Pass
Come experience the national parks! All National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to US citizens and residents (other fees, including timed entry or reservation fees, may apply). Mark your calendar for these entrance fee-free dates:
February 16 : Presidents Day (Washington's Birthday)
May 25 : Memorial Day
June 14: Flag Day/President Trump's birthday
July 3–5: Independence Day weekend
August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Service
September 17: Constitution Day
October 27 : Theodore Roosevelt's birthday
November 11: Veterans Day
Fee-free entrance days do not include sunrise reservations or admittance to the park between the hours of 3:00 am-7:00 am. People planning to view the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park must make sunrise viewing reservations for $1.00 in advance at https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/253731 .
If you arrive at the Summit or Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park and the entrance station is closed, please use the automated self-pay machine located next to the entrance station. The machines only accept credit cards as payment. Visitors with a valid 3 day receipt from the Summit or Kīpahulu District, a valid Hawaiʻi Tri-Park Pass, or an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass that is currently valid do not need to pay at the self-pay machine and may proceed into the park.
National Park Service regulations allow school groups and other bona fide national and international educational institutions to obtain a waiver of park entrance fees, provided that the visit is for educational or scientific purposes, and the resources or facilities the group proposes to use support those purposes.
Educational fee waivers are not granted automatically. Applicant groups must show they qualify for the waiver.
Learn more about how to schedule a field trip to the park.
| Pass | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Pass | $15.00–$30.00 | |
| Annual Pass | $55.00 | |
| Hawai'i Tri-Park Annual Pass | $55.00 | |
| America the Beautiful Pass (includes Senior Passes) | FREE–$250.00 | |
| I'm visiting... | We recommend | |
| This park, once | Standard Pass | |
| This park, multiple times | Annual Pass | |
| Visitors who will only visit Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park and Haleakala National Park, and Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. | Hawai'i Tri-Park Annual Pass | |
| More than one national park or federal recreation site | America the Beautiful Pass | |
| Type | Available to | Price |
| Resident Annual Pass | US citizens and residents | $80.00 |
| Non-Resident Annual Pass | Non-US residents | $250.00 |
| Senior Annual Pass | US citizens and residents 62+ years old | $20.00 |
| Senior Lifetime Pass | US citizens and residents 62+ years old | $80.00 |
| Military Annual Pass | Current US military and dependents | Free |
| Military Lifetime Pass | Gold Star Family members and veterans | Free |
| Access Pass | US citizens and residents with permanent disability | Free |
| 4th Grade Pass | US 4th graders | Free |
| Volunteer Pass | Federal recreation site volunteers with 250 service hours | Free |
| Pass | Price |
|---|---|
| Standard Pass | $15.00–$30.00 |
| Annual Pass | $55.00 |
| Hawai'i Tri-Park Annual Pass | $55.00 |
| America the Beautiful Pass (includes Senior Passes) | FREE–$250.00 |
| I'm visiting... | We recommend |
|---|---|
| This park, once | Standard Pass |
| This park, multiple times | Annual Pass |
| Visitors who will only visit Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park and Haleakala National Park, and Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. | Hawai'i Tri-Park Annual Pass |
| More than one national park or federal recreation site | America the Beautiful Pass |
| Type | Available to | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Annual Pass | US citizens and residents | $80.00 |
| Non-Resident Annual Pass | Non-US residents | $250.00 |
| Senior Annual Pass | US citizens and residents 62+ years old | $20.00 |
| Senior Lifetime Pass | US citizens and residents 62+ years old | $80.00 |
| Military Annual Pass | Current US military and dependents | Free |
| Military Lifetime Pass | Gold Star Family members and veterans | Free |
| Access Pass | US citizens and residents with permanent disability | Free |
| 4th Grade Pass | US 4th graders | Free |
| Volunteer Pass | Federal recreation site volunteers with 250 service hours | Free |
Summit District
Want to view the Crater of Haleakalā and explore volcanic geology? The Summit District can be reached from Kahului via Route 37 to 377 to 378. Driving time to the summit from:
Kahului is 2.5 hours
Wailea is 3 hours
Lahaina is 3.5 hours
Global Positioning System address: 30,000 Haleakalā Hwy, Kula, HI 96790
Kīpahulu District
Looking to explore waterfalls and a bamboo forest? The Kīpahulu District is reached via Route 36 to 360 to 31. Driving time from Kahului is approximately 4 hours.
Global Positioning System address: Mile Marker 41 Hana Hwy, Hana, HI 96713
Gas and Charging Please note that there are no gas stations within the park. The last place to get gas in route to the Summit Area is in the town of Pukalani. There are no charging stations for electric vehicles at Haleakalā National Park. Even electric vehicles with a full charge have been unable to make it to the Summit. If you are heading to the Kīpahulu Area, the last place to get gas along the Hāna Highway before Hāna is in the town of Pāʻia.
Left image Haleakalā Crater at the Summit District Credit: NPS Photo
Right image ʻOheʻo Gulch in the Kīpahulu District Credit: NPS photo
Located on the island of Maui, Haleakalā National Park extends from the 10,023 foot (3,055 meters) Summit District of Haleakalā down the southeast flank of the mountain to the Kīpahulu District near Hāna. These two sections of the park are not directly connected by road, but both can be reached from Kahului. Public transport is not available to access either district.
Several native and non-native bird species call Haleakalā home and are often seen in parking lots and in roadways, day and night. Some of these birds are endangered, endemic and only found at the summit of Haleakalā!
Help us protect them by:
Driving the speed limit
Stopping and waiting for wildlife to cross the road
Taking extra caution when driving in inclement weather (wind, rain, fog, etc).
Not feeding wildlife
Plan ahead and prepare for a cycle to the summit
Explore park and trail maps
Please remember that you are entering a natural area where you are responsible for your own safety. If you have concerns about any activity or situation, please seek advice from park rangers at the visitor centers. For your safety, it is important to always stay on trail and read and obey all posted signs. In the event of a medical emergency, medical assistance may take up to an hour to arrive from a nearby town so it is important that you come prepared.
The park is divided into two districts with different elevations, features, and climates. For more details on the specifics of these areas visit Kīpahulu District and Summit District ,
It’s exciting to have the opportunity to view wildlife when visiting a National Park and Haleakalā is no different! Several native and non-native bird species call Haleakalā home and are often seen in parking lots and in roadways day and night. Some of these birds are endangered, endemic and only found at the summit of Haleakalā!
Help us protect them by:
Driving the speed limit
Stopping and waiting for wildlife to cross the road
Taking extra caution when driving in inclement weather (wind, rain, fog, etc).
Not feeding any wildlife—all the food they need is provided for them in their natural environment!
Prepare for the Weather: The wilderness area is remote and experiences unpredictable weather. Temperatures vary from 40-70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 30-50 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Plan for rain at all times of year. If it is stormy, winds can exceed 80 miles per hour with temperatures dropping well below freezing.
Terrain: Hiking trails may be steep. Terrain may include loose cinders and/or rocks. Sturdy hiking shoes are highly recommended. Change in altitude can be from a high of 9,780ft to a low of 6,380ft. Due to the soft sandy nature of the trails, plan on spending twice as much time to hike out as to hike in.
Stay On-Trail: Protect fragile species found in the park by staying on the trail! Haleakalā is an on-trail park and all visitors required to stay on designated trails. Staying on trail not only helps fragile habitat but in addition keeps you safe as hiking off trail increases the potential for injury or becoming lost.
Stay Together: When hiking with a group, keep track of each other by staying in sight of one another at all times. If separated wait along the trail, and especially at all trail junctions. Reminder: There is no cell phone service in Haleakalā Crater and it is very limited at trailheads.
Share Your Itinerary with Someone You Trust: Let someone know your itinerary or trip plan and instruct them to contact emergency personnel if you are overdue.
The park's emergency communication center's phone number is 808-985-6170. This number is for emergencies only!
Make sure the person you designate understands that if you are overdue, lost, or injured on the trail, they are your only link to help and should report you overdue if you fail to contact them by a predesignated time.
If Lost: If you become disoriented or lost, attempt to fix your location using a map, compass, and landmarks. If you are unable to locate the trail, stay put! Use a mirror or reflective object to signal for help. Any signal done three times in a series is a universal distress call. Bright colors and reflective materials to attract attention.
If Sick of Injured: If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to hike, send someone in your party or a passing hiker for help. Write down and give the messenger your exact location, age, gender, height, weight, and a description of your illness/injury in order to ensure the appropriate emergency response. There is no cell phone service in Haleakalā Crater. Emergency signal devices work in the crater but should not be the only thing you rely on, remember to share your itinerary with someone you trust and instruct them to contact emergency personnel if you are overdue.
Plan for the Best, Prepare for the Worst: Always carry extra food and water, rain gear, and warm clothing in case you have to spend the night out unexpectedly
The roads of Haleakalā National Park are remote, prone to extreme weather conditions, and are accessed via winding, sometimes steep, roads. Follow these tips to ensure a safe drive. Follow these tips to ensure a safe drive:
Obey the speed limit
Use established pull outs and parking lots
Obey all posted traffic signs and instructions from park staff
If you have a line of vehicles behind you, pull over at the nearest designated pull out to let them pass.
Do not stop in the road to take pictures, use designated pull outs and parking lots
Use headlights when driving in clouds, rain, or other low visibility conditions
Pass only in passing zones
During strong winds, drive with both hands on the steering wheel, watch for flying debris, and be careful when opening your car doors.
Watch for wildlife in the road. Honk your horn to encourage them off the road. Pass them if and when it is safe to do so.
In the Kīpahulu District, make sure to obey "blow horn" signs. Honk your horn and listen for the horns of others. Proceed slowly.
When descending the mountain, use a low gear. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions.
For your visit, we suggest bringing the following:
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunblock)
Cold/wet weather clothing (raingear, pants, jacket, poncho)
Food (no food for sale in the park)
Water bottles (drinking water available at all visitor centers)
Sturdy shoes (hiking boots or athletic shoes)
Pool and Ocean Hazards:
Flash flooding (water can rise as fast as 4 feet in 10 minutes resulting in people washed out to sea and drowning)
Rock falls (in gulches and below waterfalls)
Tripping hazards (from overlooks, ledges, jumping, and diving)
Water quality (Leptospirosis, E. coli)
Strong currents and rip currents
Forest and Kim Starr
With over 30 miles (48 km) of hiking trails, that range from just 10 minutes to multi-day overnight trips, there are many options in the Summit District. You can hike in the native shrubland, looking for native forest birds and endemic plants, or in the aeolian cinder desert, exploring the geologic history of the volcano.
Trails are strenuous in the Summit Area because the high-elevation causes a lower concentration of oxygen in each breath. Altitude sickness is a concern. Be on guard for symptoms: nausea, headache, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Pregnant women and people with heart or respiratory conditions should consult their doctor before visiting and hiking in the Summit Area. When beginning your hike on a downward slope, allow for twice the time hiking to get out, e.g. 15 minutes hiking down + 30 minutes up = 45 minute hike. Soft cinder trails create hiking conditions similiar to walking on a beach in some areas.
Temperatures commonly range between 30 to 65 degrees F (-1 to +18 degrees C), and can reach below freezing at any time with the wind-chill factor. Hypothermia is a danger. Hikers must be properly prepared for high altitudes and cold, rainy conditions. Weather in the Summit Area is unpredictable and ever-changing. Prepare for harsh UV rays, wind, rain, and cold temperatures year-round. What to bring: - Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunblock) - Cold/wet weather clothing (raingear, pants, jacket, poncho) - Food (no food for sale in the park) - Water bottles (drinking water available at all visitor centers) - Sturdy shoes (hiking boots or athletic shoes)
Jonathan Irish, National Geographic
- Kaupō Trail is not within park boundaries and is not maintained by NPS - It is a rugged, unimproved trail and injuries have occurred - Visitors go at their own risk - NPS recommends that visitors use Crater trails only
NPS Photo J. Mansfield
This remote district is only accessible via the Hana Highway. Prepare for hot, humid, rainy weather. Enjoy hiking to two waterfalls, camping in the Kīpahulu Campground , cultural demonstrations, and exhibits. Due to flash floods and rock slides, swimming is not recommended in ‘Ohe‘o Gulch.
We need your kōkua (help) to deter a plant disease from reaching native forests on Maui. Learn how you can do your part to help stop the spread of rapid ʻŌhiʻa death .
| Trail name | Description | Distance and elevation change |
|---|---|---|
| Trail name | Description | Distance/elevation change |
| Pā Ka‘oao OPEN | Hike up the pu‘u next to Haleakalā Visitor Center to view ancient rock wall shelters and the crater. | 0.4 mile (0.64 km) round trip.100 ft (30 m) elevation change. |
| Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) OPEN | Hike downhill into the crater. The trailhead is in the Haleakalā Visitor Center parking lot near the road. | Distance to the first overlook is 0.50 mile (0.8 km) round trip, with a 50 ft (15 m) elevation change. Beyond that, refer to distances and elevations on the map. |
| Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) OPEN | Hike across the crater to Halemau'u Trail. The trailhead is in the Haleakalā Visitor Center parking lot near the road. | A popular 11-mile (17.8 km) full-day hike begins at Keonehe‘ehe‘e Trailhead, crosses the valley floor, and ends at Halemau'u (7,990 ft/2,436 m elevation). The park cannot offer hiker shuttles, so consider using the “hiker pick-up” near here. Points of interest: The "crater floor" is 3.9 miles down one way. The elevation change is almost 2,500 ft/762 m. "Pele's Paint Pot" (about 5.7 miles in) is roughly the halfway point of this hike, near the north side of Halāli'i cinder cone. Kawilinau (also about 5.7 miles in) was formerly called the "bottomless pit." The volcanic pit is 65 feet deep. View both of these areas after reaching the crater floor and heading north towards Halemau'u. Note: Plan ahead! Park visitation slows in inclement weather, decreasing the number of visitors who might offer you a ride up to Keonehe'ehe'e Trail parking lot. We recommend parking your vehicle at Halemau'u and hitchhiking up to Keonehe'ehe'e at the beginning of your hike . Upon concluding your hike, you will have immediate access to your vehicle at Halemau'u. |
| Trail Name | Description | Distance and elevation change |
| Leleiwi Overlook OPEN | Carefully cross the park road to the trailhead for a short walk to a crater viewpoint. | 0.30 mile (0.48 km) roundtrip. 100 ft (30 m) elevation change. |
| Halemau‘u Trail OPEN | Hike 1.1 miles (1.8 km) on a rocky path to a crater viewpoint. A popular destination on this hike is a natural land bridge commonly referred to as " Rainbow Bridge ." This area is about 0.25 miles from the first crater viewpoint. Hiking past this will take you down switchbacks carved into the crater walls. It is a little over 2 miles one way to reach the crater floor from the trailhead. | 2.2 miles (3.6 km) round trip. 400 ft (123 m) elevation change. |
| Supply Trail OPEN | Hike to the junction with the Halemau'u Trail . | 4.6 miles (7.4 km) roundtrip. 975 ft (297 m) elevation change. |
| Hosmer Grove OPEN | Compare non-native trees (planted before the park’s establishment, to control erosion) and native shrubland. View honeycreepers found nowhere else on earth. | 0.54 mile (0.87 km) loop trail. 50 ft (15 m) elevation change. |
| Pīpīwai Trail OPEN | Take a hike up a trail that winds through a freshwater stream and diverse forest areas with views of waterfalls and other natural features. This trail is moderately strenuous. Points of interest: Makahiku Overlook will give you your first glimpse of a waterfall, Makahiku Falls, at 0.5 miles in. The bamboo forest can be found about one mile in. Visitors can expect to see boardwalks and footbridges. Waimoku Falls viewing area brings visitors to the end of Pīpīwai Trail after two miles (one way). This hike to this area gains 800 feet in elevation. Note: check and comply with posted trail closures before heading out. Off-trail travel is dangerous and illegal. | 4 miles (roundtrip), 800 ft elevation change. |
| Kūloa Point Trail OPEN | This trail leaves the Kīpahulu Visitor Center and continues past a Hawaiian cultural demonstration area to Kuloa Point at the mouth of 'Ohe'o Gulch. Here, you will find beautiful ocean views and archaeological sites. This trail is popular for viewing the Pools of 'Ohe'o. The pools are sometimes closed to swimming because of hazardous conditions. The "alerts" section of the page will inform you of pool/stream closures. | 0.5 mi (total), 80 ft elevation change |
| Trail name | Description | Distance/elevation change |
| Pā Ka‘oao OPEN | Hike up the pu‘u next to Haleakalā Visitor Center to view ancient rock wall shelters and the crater. | 0.4 mile (0.64 km) round trip.100 ft (30 m) elevation change. |
| Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) OPEN | Hike downhill into the crater. The trailhead is in the Haleakalā Visitor Center parking lot near the road. | Distance to the first overlook is 0.50 mile (0.8 km) round trip, with a 50 ft (15 m) elevation change. Beyond that, refer to distances and elevations on the map. |
| Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) OPEN | Hike across the crater to Halemau'u Trail. The trailhead is in the Haleakalā Visitor Center parking lot near the road. | A popular 11-mile (17.8 km) full-day hike begins at Keonehe‘ehe‘e Trailhead, crosses the valley floor, and ends at Halemau'u (7,990 ft/2,436 m elevation). The park cannot offer hiker shuttles, so consider using the “hiker pick-up” near here. Points of interest: The "crater floor" is 3.9 miles down one way. The elevation change is almost 2,500 ft/762 m. "Pele's Paint Pot" (about 5.7 miles in) is roughly the halfway point of this hike, near the north side of Halāli'i cinder cone. Kawilinau (also about 5.7 miles in) was formerly called the "bottomless pit." The volcanic pit is 65 feet deep. View both of these areas after reaching the crater floor and heading north towards Halemau'u. Note: Plan ahead! Park visitation slows in inclement weather, decreasing the number of visitors who might offer you a ride up to Keonehe'ehe'e Trail parking lot. We recommend parking your vehicle at Halemau'u and hitchhiking up to Keonehe'ehe'e at the beginning of your hike . Upon concluding your hike, you will have immediate access to your vehicle at Halemau'u. |
| Trail Name | Description | Distance and elevation change |
| Leleiwi Overlook OPEN | Carefully cross the park road to the trailhead for a short walk to a crater viewpoint. | 0.30 mile (0.48 km) roundtrip. 100 ft (30 m) elevation change. |
| Halemau‘u Trail OPEN | Hike 1.1 miles (1.8 km) on a rocky path to a crater viewpoint. A popular destination on this hike is a natural land bridge commonly referred to as " Rainbow Bridge ." This area is about 0.25 miles from the first crater viewpoint. Hiking past this will take you down switchbacks carved into the crater walls. It is a little over 2 miles one way to reach the crater floor from the trailhead. | 2.2 miles (3.6 km) round trip. 400 ft (123 m) elevation change. |
| Supply Trail OPEN | Hike to the junction with the Halemau'u Trail . | 4.6 miles (7.4 km) roundtrip. 975 ft (297 m) elevation change. |
| Hosmer Grove OPEN | Compare non-native trees (planted before the park’s establishment, to control erosion) and native shrubland. View honeycreepers found nowhere else on earth. | 0.54 mile (0.87 km) loop trail. 50 ft (15 m) elevation change. |
| Trail name | Description | Distance and elevation change |
|---|---|---|
| Pīpīwai Trail OPEN | Take a hike up a trail that winds through a freshwater stream and diverse forest areas with views of waterfalls and other natural features. This trail is moderately strenuous. Points of interest: Makahiku Overlook will give you your first glimpse of a waterfall, Makahiku Falls, at 0.5 miles in. The bamboo forest can be found about one mile in. Visitors can expect to see boardwalks and footbridges. Waimoku Falls viewing area brings visitors to the end of Pīpīwai Trail after two miles (one way). This hike to this area gains 800 feet in elevation. Note: check and comply with posted trail closures before heading out. Off-trail travel is dangerous and illegal. | 4 miles (roundtrip), 800 ft elevation change. |
| Kūloa Point Trail OPEN | This trail leaves the Kīpahulu Visitor Center and continues past a Hawaiian cultural demonstration area to Kuloa Point at the mouth of 'Ohe'o Gulch. Here, you will find beautiful ocean views and archaeological sites. This trail is popular for viewing the Pools of 'Ohe'o. The pools are sometimes closed to swimming because of hazardous conditions. The "alerts" section of the page will inform you of pool/stream closures. | 0.5 mi (total), 80 ft elevation change |
Dogs are permitted in parking lots and on roadways and paved pathways only. Dogs are not permitted on trails or at Hosmer Grove Campground. You may not leave animals unattended at any time. Please do not bring dogs into park buildings.
Working guide dogs accompanying a person with a disability are permitted in buildings. Please talk to a park ranger for information on hiking with guide dogs.
NPS/Meagan Kubojiri
Haleakalā is known for a wide range of weather; on any given day the temperatures in the park can vary from a high of 80°F (27°C) in Kīpahulu to a low of 30°F (-1°C) at the summit. Conditions can change quickly with clouds and rain replacing warm sunshine. Prepare for all conditions when planning your trip, as the weather can deviate considerably from the forecast.
NPS Photo / Jake Mcfee
Weather in the high-elevation areas of the park is highly unpredictable and changes often. Cool temperatures, intense solar radiation, and rapidly moving clouds are characteristic. On average, the temperature drops about 3°F for every 1,000 foot rise in elevation (or approximately 5°C for every 1,000 meter elevation rise), making the 10,023 foot (3055m) summit of Haleakalā about 30°F (or 17°C) cooler than the coast. Year-round summit temperatures range between below freezing to highs of 50°- 65°F (10-18°C). The outside temperatures can feel much colder because of wind chill and damp, overcast conditions.
Zone Forecast for Summit District of Haleakalā from 7,000 ft. to the summit.
Point Forecast for the summit of Haleakala at 10,023 ft.
Summit Webcam for the latest viewing conditions of Haleakalā Crater from the summit.
In contrast to the summit, the weather in the Kīpahulu Area of the park is more mild and wet. Located on the windward (eastern) coast of the island, Kīpahulu receives an average of 187 inches (475cm) of rain each year. The proximity of the ocean and the trade winds moderate the temperature and keep it at a daytime average of 70°-80°F (21-27°C) year round. Night time lows average 65-75°F (18-24°C).
Zone Forecast for Kīpahulu and coastal Haleakalā.
Point Forecast at the Kīpahulu Visitor Center.
Reservations are currently required for Hosmer Grove campground through www.recreation.gov .
Campsites cost $20 per night with a three-night consecutive night stay maximum. All overnight camping is limited to three nights per 30-day period across all park sites.
Each campsite allows a maximum of six people and two tents.
Pets are not permitted in or around campsite facilities.
A printed reservation from the confirmation email must be held by the reservation holder.
All vehicles must park in a designated parking space within the paved lot.
Historic cabins available for reservations.
Primitive wilderness campsites accessible only by trail.
Learn how to reserve a site in the Kīpahulu Campground
Hosmer Grove lies in the cloud belt of Haleakalā, at nearly 7,000 feet (2134m) in elevation in the Summit District. Come prepared for rain and cold weather! The forest comes to life in the early dawn with the many native birds in the area, making this a beautiful early morning hike.
Six designated sites are located in an open, grassy area near the forest and shrubland of Hosmer Grove. Each site has a picnic table, grill, and access to potable water. The campground has pit toilets located in the parking lot. All vehicles must park in a designated parking space within the paved lot. A self-guided nature trail begins and ends at the campground.
Campers who obtain a reservation to camp at Hosmer Grove campground also receive a reservation to view sunrise the morning after camping. Those without a campsite reservation for Hosmer Grove who wish to view sunrise will need to obtain a reservation through recreation.gov .
To learn more and reserve a site at the Hosmer Grove campground explore the information below or visit the rec.gov page directly at Hosmer Grove Campground, Haleakala National Park - Recreation.gov
Fire/Stove Policy
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Visitors need to reserve campsites in advance at Kīpahulu Campground through Recreation.gov
Reservations are required for Kīpahulu Campground on a 30-day rolling basis through Recreation.gov .
Campsites cost $20 per night with a three-night consecutive night stay maximum. All overnight camping is limited to three nights per 30-day period across all park sites.
Each campsite allows a maximum of six people and two tents.
A printed reservation from the confirmation email must be held by the reservation holder.
Haleakalā National Park also offers a drive-up campground in the Summit District . at Hosmer Grove Campground .
Historic cabins available for reservations.
Primitive wilderness campsites accessible only by trail.
Learn about camping at Hosmer Grove.
The Kīpahulu campground is about 1/8 mile (.2 km) south of the Kīpahulu Visitor Center. Sites overlook ocean cliffs and are a short walk from ʻOheʻo Gulch. Entry into the stream at any point in the park is prohibited. Be prepared for rain, harsh sun, and mosquitoes. There is no beach access. There are 20 sites total including 5 walk-in sites, 15 drive-in sites, and 1 group drive-in site. Camping trailers or pop-up campers require a campsite reservation (which allows use of the campsite picnic table and grill) and are only permitted in corresponding parking spaces. Pets are allowed on a leash no longer than 6 feet within the campground and on the roads within campground boundaries. Dogs are not permitted on trails. Quiet hours are 10 pm to 8 am. Check-in is after 2 pm. Check-out time is 11 am. Both walk-in and drive-up sites have picnic tables. Drive-up sites have a charcoal grill, and walk-in sites only permit use of propane stoves, which must be brought in by campers. Campers must bring their own charcoal; no wood collecting is permitted. No water is available at the Kīpahulu Campground. There are no showers or electrical outlets. There are vault toilets in the campground, and a water station nearby at the Kīpahulu Visitor Center. Staying at the Kīpahulu campground takes you back in Hawaiian ahupuaʻa times, surrounding the campground are historic rock walls and archeological sites. Please do not touch, dry clothes on, or climb on the walls. Refrain from wandering in tall grass off established trails so as to allow archeological sites to rest. Local fishers ultilize the coastline, please be respectful of their equipment. Relax and enjoy watching sunrise over the Alenuihāhā channel.
There are two general stores in the nearby town of Hāna (10 miles [16 km] away) where you can purchase water and basic food supplies.
To learn more and reserve a site at the Kīpahulu campground visit: Kipahulu Campground, Haleakala National Park - Recreation.gov
Fire/Stove Policy
Phone number (Voice)
Mailing Address
Physical Address
Additional Information
Cell Phone Additional Information
Internet Additional Information
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