Be advised that the NPS has issued alerts for this park.
Portion of Kekaulike Avenue in Kula to close for approximately nine months
A portion of Kekaulike Avenue (Route 377) between Waiakoa Road and ʻAlae Road will be closed for 24 hours, seven days a week, for approximately nine months.
Drive Cautiously - Endangered Birds on Roadway
Nēnē (Hawaiian geese) and ʻuaʻu (Hawaiian petrel) are nesting in the park and may land on or frequent park roads, parking lots, and road leading up to the park. Drivers are reminded to drive at the posted speed limits and exercise caution.
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 - r...
Valid for three days. Admits a private, non-commercial motorcycle to Haleakalā National Park including both the Summit and Kīpahulu Districts.
Entrance - Private Vehicle
$30.00
Valid for three days. Admits private, non-commercial vehicle (14 max capacity or less) and all occupants to Haleakalā National Park including both the Summit and Kīpahulu Districts.
Entrance - Per Person
$15.00
Admits one individual with no car to Haleakalā National Park including both the Summit and Kīpahulu Areas. Youth 15 and under are admitted free.
Commercial Entrance - Per Person
$15.00
$15.00 per person for non-road based organized groups that offer activities such as Astronomy and Hiking.
Commercial Entrance - Sedan
$30.00
$30.00 plus, $15.00 per person for road based tour vehicles, such as sedans, with a passenger carrying capacity of 1-7 people.
Commercial Entrance - Van
$45.00
$45.00 for road based tour vehicles, such as large vans and mini buses, with a passenger carrying capacity of 8-25 people.
Timed Entry Reservation - Park & Location
$1.00
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.
A tree stands out in the forest ahead among all the other trees along the path. It is distinguishable because of its many aerial roots that hang down from its many branches. This tree will be on the left side of the trail.
Facing the shelter window at the overlook, the Haleakalā Crater looms below. The cone-shaped hills line up across the crater floor from right to left. Beyond the craggy peaks and cliffs surrounding the crater, the distant summit of Mauna Kea can be seen on a clear day.
Standing at the metal railing with the Visitor Center to the immediate left, the Haleakalā Crater looms below. The curved erosional valley has a flat floor filled with cone-shaped hills and lobe-shaped lava flows that range from black, to red, to grey. The craggy peaks and cliffs surrounding the crater are defined by ancient layers of dark volcanic rocks, covered by green vegetation in many places.
A large grove of eucalyptus trees stands in front of you, with canopies that tower over head sixty to eighty feet above. The sound of the leaves rustling in the wind along with bird calls fill the air.
Learn about Hawaiian culture, both past and present, when you visit this traditional hale. The Hale Hālāwai is a great place to view cultural practices, when available.
An open air house, or hale, is built upon a dark lava rock foundation. The main postings are made from tree logs with a tawny color from the surrounding area and long, slim tree stumps make up the rafters and purlins. A thatch of dried leaves and grass makeup the roof covering and all is lashed together with cordage made from coconut fiber. Cut grass surrounds the structure and the backdrop is made up of lush, green native and non-native plant species. The hale sits at the junction of the Pīpīwai and Kūloa Point trails. To the left of the hale is the 4-mile (roundtrip) Pīpīwai hike up to Waimoku Falls. To the right of the hale is the (0.5 mile loop) Kūloa Point trail with views of the Pools of ʻOheʻo.
On the right side of the trail up ahead, there are two separate rock structures. The first one is an intentional rock stack or an ahu known as a koʻa or fishing shrine. The second is a larger and more organized nearly square arrangement of rocks known as a hale noa. On these archeology sites are signs that read “Archeological Site – Do Not Remove Rocks.”
The Hale Hālāwai is a thatch-roofed building. Literally meaning "meeting house" this elongated open-aired structure is typical of traditional meeting houses on the Hawaiian Islands.
Standing across the road in the pull-off, facing away from the Visitor Center, a manmade wall of dark volcanic rocks and cement stretches along the roadside. Above the wall, rough natural layers of black and grey volcanic rocks are visible underneath and in between the green vegetation.
A covered shelter perfect for taking a break from the sun or rain or enjoying a picnic next to the quiet forest grove. A short 0.5 mile (0.8 km) loop trail through the surrounding forest and shrubland departs from this parking lot.
A small paved parking lot is adjacent to this picnic structure with a vault toilet restroom on the opposite side. A tall forest canopy rises above this small wooden picnic shelter partially enclosed on three sides. On the right side there is a water bottle filling station. On the left side there are informational waysides about the campground and picnic area, with recycling and trash receptacles. There are two picnic tables inside with windows allowing in natural light. Across from the shelter there is a grass lawn for campers to pitch tents or open space for kids to run around. At the far end of the parking lot there is trailhead sign that says, Nature Trail. The trail is uneven over roots and rocks, traveling through the tall non-native pine and eucalyptus forest as it winds back to a boardwalk style overlook and then through an open native shrubland forest, returning to the parking lot.
A roughly ten foot tall sign stands at the start of the trail displaying a map outlining the .6 mile loop trail through Hosmer Grove. Behind the sign is a grassy field including Hosmer Campground. The trail winds down right of the sign, curving into a forest
Green shrubs and grass of the subalpine shrubland surround the parking lot. Volcanic cone-shaped hills and water-carved valleys shape the steep and uneven mountain slope. Several buildings are nearby. In the distance, white and silver observatory structures mark the summit of the mountain.
The Kalahaku Overlook features a 0.1 mile walk to a simple structure that provides a unique view of the Haleakalā crater. The overlook can be accessed via a sloped path that starts from the first parking lot, or via the stairs at the second parking lot.
A rock stairwell leads from the parking lot up to a rocky overlook area. A simple, open structure with a paved floor and rock wall on two sides overlooks the Haleakalā crater. A spectacular view of the cinder cones and valley floor thousands of feet below spreads out before you. One can also see the magnificent array of colors of the rocks including green, red, orange, yellow, tan, and black. The structure is surrounded by a rocky landscape, dotted with clumps of mostly dry grass and small green ferns. The plaques inside the structure describe the pu'u (cinder cones) in the crater. A metal railing stands between the structure and the cliff. Signs are placed along the walkway to encourage visitors to do their part to protect the native ʻuaʻu bird by staying on the trail.
Take a short walk to new views of the crater along Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trail.
he Keoneheʻehe’e Wayside Overlook is 0.25 mile (0.4 km) from the trailhead, located near the Haleakalā Visitor Center parking lot. On a clear day, the Wayside offers broad views of the expansive Haleakalā crater. Here, you can learn about the formation of this shield volcano as well as factors contributing to its erosion. The current dimentsions of the crater are roughly 7.5 miles(12 km) by 2.5 miles (4 km), and if you continue on the trail, you can expect to descend about 3,000 ft (914 m) in elevation to the crater floor. Once twice as deep, subsequent eruptions of Haleakalā have partially filled in the valley with flows and the 14 multicolored cinder cones (puʻu) you can see from this vantage point. The two breaks in ridgeline visible from this overlook are the Koʻolau Gap (left) and Kaupo Gap (right) where lava once flowed out. The last eruption in the crater area was roughly 1,000 years ago, while the most volcano's most recent erruption on Maui was actually on the island's southern coast, between 400 and 600 years ago. Geologists still consider Haleakalā an active volcano, with the potential for future erruptions. Native Hawaiians have been traversing the crater for hundreds of years as a way to get from one side of the island to the other. Cattle ranchers have also driven cattle through the crater to get to greener pastures or summer watering holes. While this is no longer allowed, cattle can still be seen grazing outside of park boundaries on the drive up the mountain. The current Keoneheʻehe’e trail was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1937. The CCC created 20 miles (32 km) of trail throughout the crater which are still very popular today.
Facing away from the Visitor Center, a large informational sign covered by a brown roof stands at the edge of the parking lot. Rough boulder-sized volcanic rocks surround the nearby buildings and parking lot, and large hills covered in these rocks tower above the area. The boulders are full of holes and look mostly grey, black, or red.
A breathtaking ending to the loop trail. From here, one has sweeping views of the coastline of east Maui. Sometimes we can see big island of Hawaiʻi from 30 miles across the Alenuihaha Channel. Looking towards the mauka - mountains, one sees the waterfalls of ʻOheʻo Gulch and mountains above.
Notice a building closest to the ocean with a brown railing and deck. There is a sign that says “Visitor Center” and under it in light blue “Haleakalā National Park” with a painting of the demi-God Māui snaring the sun in it. To the left of this building there is a detailed trail map that says “E Komo Mai (welcome.)”
Take a short, 0.3 mile (0.5 km) roundtrip walk to experience the native shrubland and catch a glimpse of the Haleakalā crater through the clouds. This rocky trail has a moderate elevation gain and leads to a partially enclosed shelter on the edge of the crater.
A marked crosswalk allows for foot traffic to cross the main park road from the parking lot to the trail. The trail itself is a 0.3 mile (0.48 km) roundtrip walk out to a rocky overlook. The trail is unpaved and a moderate climb up to the overlook. It is quite rocky, with uneven steps and trip hazards. Near the trailhead is a section of a stone wall. The text of the accompanying interpretive sign is as follows: “This ranch wall stacked stone by stone in the late 1800s, represents an investment in the land. Stretching for two miles, it guided cattle through the harsh landscape of Haleakalā to pasture lands on the east and west sides of Maui. The ranching era shaped the economy and communities of Maui, which value rugged independence, self reliance, and sustainability. The paniolo (cowboy) culture still lives today on the slopes of Haleakalā in neighboring ranches and communities. Cattle also had a devastating impact on native vegetation, completely destroying some native forests and dramatically reducing others. The National Park’s investment in the land includes over 30 miles of fences to protect and preserve unique species, such as ʻāhinahina (silversword), and subalpine scrublands. Fences exclude cattle, pigs, goats, deer, and other grazers from destroying protected land in the park, providing resource managers the opportunity to restore and revive the native landscape.” Native plants found along the trail include a variety of trees with yellow flowers, and several shrubs with a variety of berries. From the overlook on a clear day one can see down to Maui’s north shore through a large gap in the valley wall. On the left of the gap the switchbacks of the new Halemauʻu trail built by the CCC are visible on the cliffside. The original Halemauʻu trail used by Hawaiians to traverse the crater and later by ranchers to run cattle has since eroded away. To the right of the gap is a tall peak on the rim of the crater. Another large gap in the valley wall leads to the ocean on the southeast side of the island. The volcanic extends for miles in front of the overlook. The drop from the edge of the crater to the floor is several thousand feet. On the floor are smooth, sandy hills cinder cones from the most recent eruptions. Vegetation has begun to fill in some of the lava flows.
A bench sits at the top of the trail with a 360 panaromic view. Visible from this point is a non-native timber tree stand, the Pacific Ocean, the west Maui mountains/Mauna Kahalewai, and surrounding native shrubland plants.
As you walk down to the end of the Kūloa Point Trail you will be able to hear the cascading waterfalls and pools, named the Pools of ʻOheʻo. The area is fenced off, with several signs indicating the area is closed due to rock fall and flash floods.
Drive to the highest point on Maui for 360 degree views of neighbor islands and ocean vistas. The observation deck can be accessed via a stairwell or an inclined path.
A circular parking lot sits at the base of a set of stairs leading up to the observation deck. At the center of the parking lot is a rocky garden feature spikey, silver plants of different sizes. These are ʻāhinahina, or silverswords. In the summertime, some of these plants will put off stalks two to three feet tall covered in purple flowers. Going up the staircase from the parking lot leads to the top of Puʻuʻulaʻula, where the small observation deck sits. It is a circular building made of stone and has wrap-around windows. Inside are interpretive signs that identify the islands on the horizon. On a clear day, you can see the Island of Hawaiʻi (Big Island,) Molokaʻi, and Lānaʻi, as well as West Maui Mountain. Beyond the islands. the Pacific Ocean extends out into the horizon. Spreading out in front of the observation deck, there is a view of the dozen cinder cones on the crater floor several thousand feet below. On an adjacent hill there are several large telescopes and observatories of various shapes and sizes.
A paved path leads from the parking lot up to a small building surrounded by a manmade rock wall. Rough reddish volcanic rocks cover the slope below the wall and around the parking lot. Spiky, silver-colored alpine desert plants appear among the red rocks. From this summit, the flanks of the volcano slope irregularly down to the ocean on almost every side. Facing away from the Observation Deck building, there are two clusters of white and silver domed observatory structures in the nearby restricted compound.
A short hike next to the Haleakalā Visitor Center allows you to see a different view of the crater and some cultural resources of the park. Though the trail is only 0.4 mile (.6 km) roundtrip, it gains 100 feet of elevation to the overlook.
Nestled on the rim of the Haleakalā crater, adjacent to the Haleakalā Visitor Center sits Pā Kaʻoao. This small puʻu (hill) is covered in medium to larger, reddish brown and tan basalt boulders. A small, green shrub with pointed leaves, Kūpaoa (Dubautia menziesii), is an endemic alpine desert plant that is scattered through the volcanic landscape. Kūpaoa gives the barren volcanic landscape a pop of green. There is an uneven dirt trail that takes you up the puʻu to a small overlook to see a different view of the crater. The trail is 0.2 miles (0.32km) one way and takes you around the leeward side of the puʻu at an elevation change of 100ft (30km). The trail is lined with tan basalt stones. On the trail there are a few steep steps and small boulders to walk over. Halfway up the trail are archeological sites. These stone structures known as pā or enclosures blend into the volcanic landscape. The pā are circular stacked stone enclosures that stand about one to two feet off the ground. In the enclosures are a variation of red and black cinder. Once you are at the top of the hill there is a circular area to view the crater. A low stone wall encloses you into the little space with boulders on each side. The view is of the crater with miles of volcanic landscape. There are seven puʻu in the distance ranging from small to large. Almost the entire crater is surrounded by steep mountains that are slowly eroding away.
As you walk down to the end of the Kūloa Point Trail you will be able to hear the cascading waterfalls and pools, named the Pools of ʻOheʻo. The area is fenced off, with several signs indicating the area is closed due to rock fall and flash floods.
About a 30 minute drive from the Headquarters Visitor Center, the Haleakalā Visitor Center is perched on the edge of the impressive volcanic valley. Inside, park staff can answer questions at the information desk. Visitors can learn about the history of the mountain through various displays. There is also a Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association bookstore with souvenirs available for purchase. Restrooms are located nearby in a separate building and are open 24/7. Please check the alerts page for any closures.
The Headquarters Visitor Center is 1 mile (1.6 km) past the Summit District entrance gate. Inside, park staff can answer questions at the information desk. A small exhibit hall features displays on the park's natural and cultural history. Restrooms are accessible from the outside and open 24/7. Please check park alerts for information on closures.
Located at the coastal Kīpahulu District. Information desk, exhibits on natural and cultural history, and a Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association bookstore inside. Restrooms are open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, except when the park is closed during severe weather events. Please check park alerts for information on closures.
Enter the park's Wilderness on the Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trail and take a moderate out-and-back hike partway down the windswept cinder slope. This is among the most popular hikes in the park thanks to its unbeatable crater views.
Strenuous Hike Across the Crater Floor
Experienced hikers can "thru" hike the crater from Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trailhead, across the crater floor, and out to Halemauʻu Trailhead. This hike is extremely strenuous and should only be undertaken by individuals who are equipped for a wilderness environment.
Enjoy the Sunrise
Start your day at the top of Haleakalā. With an advance sunrise reservation, visitors can await the dawn from any of four lookouts leading to the summit.
Become a Haleakalā Junior Ranger
Complete activities featuring the plants, animals, and history of Haleakalā to earn your Junior Ranger badge!
Shopping
The HPPA operates three bookstores at Haleakalā National Park and they are located at Park Headquarters, Haleakalā Visitor Center, and Kīpahulu Visitor Center. The HPPA also maintains an online bookstore.
Moderate Hike up to the Bamboo Forest
Listen to the sounds of the bamboo forest as the towering stalks creak, clack, and clang along the Pīpīwai Trail! Pick up the trail to the left of the Kīpahulu Visitor Center. The hike is 1 mile (1.6 km) round trip with an average hiking time of 1 hour. Be prepared for a hot hike and carry water, a snack, and sun protection!
Short Hike to Makahiku Falls
Golden light. Verdant forests. White waters. View Makahiku Falls from the Pīpīwai Trail in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park.
Short Hike to Leleiwi Overlook
Take a short .3 mile (.5 km) roundtrip walk out to Leleiwi Overlook. Pass native plants on your way to a spectacular view of the crater and the Koʻolau Gap.
Moderate Hike to the Crater Edge
Meander through native shrubland to glimpse rare forest birds and a variety of plants found only in Hawaiʻi.
Tours
Count: 3
Geology Road Tour
Have you ever driven up the side of an active volcano? While on your 30 minute drive up Crater Road, follow the stops along this tour to explore the extraordinary volcanism that built more than 75% of Maui. Drive safe and never let your phone distract you while operating a vehicle.
Hosmer Grove Nature Walk
Enjoy a .6 mile hike through Hosmer Grove and explore how human curiosity shaped the land around you in a place unlike anywhere else in Haleakalā National Park. This trail experiences about 100ft elevation change, exposed roots, and potentially muddy and uneven ground.
Kūloa Point Guided Hike
Along this half mile walk explore why Kīpahulu is an important homeland for generations of Hawaiians; archeological sites, native plants, and a landscape that includes important resources such as fresh water. This is a gravel path with about 60 feet of elevation change.
