Haleakala is an active shield volcano that hovers in the clouds above Maui. The dented landscape of the crater at the summit makes this a must-see attraction on your next visit to Sands. Most of the volcano is in Haleakala National Park, which charges $10 per car and $5 for bikers and hikers.
Biking Haleakala is both exhilarating and perilous. Numerous accidents have caused the National Park Service to suspend guided bike tours from the summit, but there are still two-wheel options. You can take unguided bike tours from the crater summit (proceed at your own risk), or guided tours that begin outside the park.
Touring Haleakala lets you enjoy the scenery as you navigate the winding Crater Road. You can choose from sunrise tours (sunrise here is a breathtaking sight), crater and summit tours, and combo tours that include biking, hiking and horseback riding.
The crater and summit are Haleakala’s main attractions. Be sure to look for the endangered silversword plant that grows exclusively on the slopes of Haleakala. Listen for the honking of the endangered nene goose that lives on the wooded slopes of the volcano. You will also notice an outcropping of white round buildings. They are the Haleakala observatories.
High altitude makes hiking the volcano a challenging trek. The crater and summit have more than 30 miles of trails for your enjoyment. If you would rather descend the summit on four legs instead of two, you can also saddle up a horse and ride down into the crater.
Please note that temperatures are cold at the summit, especially at dawn, so it is recommended you bring a jacket or sweater. There also are no gas stations or convenience stores on the road to the summit. Remember to fill up on gas, snacks and drinks beforehand.
Haleakala Fast Facts
Last erupted: 1790
Summit: 10,023 feet
Crater: 3,000 feet deep
Drive to summit: Two hours
Weather information: 808-871-5054
Please see your concierge for more information.