Hiking

A roundtrip down and then back up the first mile generally takes around 1 hour. However, those wishing to take it easy or wanting to walk more slowly on the return hike should account for the steep elevation and high altitude and budget additional time.  A good rule of thumb is to expect to take twice as much time to hike out of the crater as it did to hike into the crater. If you hiked down for 30 minutes, expect spending about 1 hour to hike back out.

A trail leads down into a colorful volcanic valley.

Start of Keoneheʻeheʻe Trail

This hike starts from the Keoneheʻeheʻe Trailhead, which is located at the Haleakalā Visitor Center parking lot. There are restrooms and a water fountain located by the visitor center. 

For an adventure into an otherwordly landscape, hike a short ways down the Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trail and experience the crater up close. Make your way down the sandy trail to a natural overlook that offers new perspectives on the puʻu (cinder cones) that dominate the crater floor. Each puʻu represents a different erruption site, the youngest of which occured only about 1,000 years ago. Geologically speaking, thatʻs recent! Discover what makes the Hawaiian volcanoes stand out in our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/hale/learn/nature/geology-guide.htm">Geology Guide</a>. Life is harsh in this windy, sunny environment. The ʻāhinahina, or Haleakalā silversword, is a plant unique to Haleakalāʻs summit area. Its special adaptations allow this species to live where few can. While they are equiped to handle intense sun and desert conditions, they are easily damaged when curious people get too close. Protecting this endangerd species from harm is an excellent reason why all visitors stay on the established park trails. Learn more about ʻāhinahina and other native plants in our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/hale/learn/nature/plants-of-the-summit-district.htm">Plants Brochure</a>.  For a moderate hike, follow the trail down 1 mile (1.6 km) to a natural overlook before the trail begins a series of switchbacks. Making it down to this point loses about 500 feet (152 m) in elevation, equivalent to a 50-story building. The steep, sandy nature of the trail can be strenous as such high altitude. Be prepared with sun protection and plenty of water for everyone in your group before hiking this trail.

There are no pets permitted on trails or in the Wilderness Area. 

Temperatures generally start off cool in the morning and warm up in the afternoon all year. Winter is the rainy season in Hawaii, and there may be an increased chance for fog or storms in the afternoon, no matter the season. 

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.

Moderate Hike into Haleakalā's Crater

Geology

Mountains

Scenic Views

Trails

Unique Species

Endangered

Rare

Volcanoes

Wilderness

This hike is best suited for experienced, adult hikers who can carry their own supplies. 

This hike is a full day. Budget time accordingly, and pack enough to be self-sufficient in the Wilderness Area for extra time, if needed. 

A hiker walks a trail between two red and yellow cinder cones.

Hiker at Puʻu Halāliʻi

Most thru hikers prefer to start at the Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trailhead, located in a corner of the Halekalā Visitor Center parking lot. Be advised that the thru hike is not a loop, and hikers will conclude their hike at the Halemauʻu Trailhead, several miles down the road from their starting point. Hikers are responsible for coordinating their own transportation between trailheads. The park does not offer any hiker shuttling services. 

For experienced and prepared hikers, there's no better way to appreciate the challenge and the joy of the crater than to hike into it, across the floor, and out the other side. This hike is extremely strenous, crossing 11.2 miles (17.7 km) of rugged terrain, and involving several thousand feet of elevation change. Anyone undertaking this hike should be familiar with extreme mountain environments. The entire hike is in the remote Wilderness Area, where assistance may be hours away or unaccessible altogether.  Most thru hikers prefer to start at the Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trailhead, located in a corner of the Haleakalā Visitor Center parking lot. Be advised that the thru hike is not a loop, and hikers will conclude their hike at the Halemauʻu Trailhead, several miles down the road from their starting point. Hikers are responsible for coordinating their own transportation between trailheads. The park cannot offer hiker shuttles, so consider using the “hiker pick-up” near here. Points of Interest: <ul> <li>The "crater floor" is 3.9 miles (6.3 km) down one way. The elevation change is almost 2,500 ft/762 m.</li> <li>Kawilinau is about 5.7 miles in (9.2 km) was formerly called the "bottomless pit." The volcanic pit is 65 feet deep. Hike around the Halāli'i pu'u to catch the view of Kawilinau, and explore this colorful cinder cone. </li> </ul>

Pets are not permitted on any trails or in the Wilderness Area. 

Temperatures generally start off cool in the morning and warm up in the afternoon all year. Winter is the rainy season in Hawaiʻi, and there may be an increased chance for fog or storms in the afternoon, no matter the season. Always come prepared with both sun and rain protection, along with extra layers and emergency shelter. 

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.

Strenuous Hike Across the Crater Floor

Cultural Demonstrations

Visitors can choose to remain in the parking lot or walk along trails to catch the sunrise. As always, be prepared for the elements. While the climate in Hawaiʻi is hot and humid down by the coast, at such high elevations the summit can be cold, dry, and windy. Storms can roll in at any time of year and cause white-out conditions. 

To get the most out of the experience, and to be able to park and your preferred location, itʻs ideal to arrive at the park gate no later than 90 minutes prior to sunrise. The distance between the park entrance gate to the highest elevation of Puʻuʻulaʻula is about 10 miles, but takes 30 minutes to drive to the winding nature of the road. Advance sunrise reservations are required to enter the park between 3 am and 7 am each morning.

All visitors to park must pay the park entrance fee at the entrance gate or present a valid park pass. Find our more about <a href="https://www.nps.gov/hale/planyourvisit/fees.htm">Fees and Passes. </a> In addition to the entrance fee at the gate, advance sunrise reservations are required to enter the park between 3 am and 7 am. Reservations can be made on <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/253731">Recreation.gov</a>. The reservation fee is $1.

A dawn sky colors clouds yellow and pink, silhouetting an overlook shelter.

<ul> <li>Leleiwi Overlook (8840 ft / 2694 m) is a short, .3 hike from the Leleiwi parking lot. Visitors are treated to clear views of the Koʻolau gap and the meadows on the crater floor below. Because of the rocky nature of the trail, visitors are advised to bring headlamps or flashlights if choosing this for their sunrise spot. </li> <li>Kalahaku Overlook (9324 ft / 2842 m), offers a sweeping vista of the valleyʻs volcanic landscape. As the sun rises, visitors might be able to make out the miles of trail that crisscross the crater floor. </li> <li>Haleakalā Visitor Center (9740 ft / 2969 m) sits on the edge of the crater. A popular spot for visitors and locals alike, sunrise watchers here might hear an oli, a traditional Hawaiian chant, to welcome the sun. </li> <li>Puʻuʻulaʻula Observation Deck (10,023 ft / 3055 m) marks the highest point on the island. From here, visitors can enjoy 360 degree views of Maui and the neighboring islands as dawn spreads over the eastern sky. Sunrise watchers at this location may hear an oli, a traditional Hawaiian chant, to welcome the sun.</li> </ul>

There are four excellent overlooks from which to watch sunrise (see the location dropdown below). Each one presents unique opportunities for experiencing the best of Haleakalā. On a busy morning, some parking lots may fill up sooner than others. Plan to be flexible, and know that all four options are excellent for sunrise viewing. Sunrise watchers at any one of the locations listed below may hear an oli, a traditional Hawaiian chant, to welcome the sun. Mahalo (thank you) for your respect during these oli.

All pets must be leashed. Pets are only permitted on paved surfaces. Pets are not permitted on any park trails.

Advance reservations are required for sunrise viewing at Haleakalā. Reservations can be made online at <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/253731">Recreation.gov.</a> The reservation system was established in 2017 to better protect both visitors and the endangered species within the park. Read more about <a href="https://www.nps.gov/hale/planyourvisit/sunrise.htm">Sunrise Reservations. </a>

Sunrise reservations are available year round. No matter the season, plan for cold, windy weather at the summit. Temperatures can often approach or even dip below freezing. Weather is unpredictable, and storms can quickly blow in and obscure views of the crater and 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.

Enjoy the Sunrise

Night Sky

Junior Ranger Program

Junior Ranger activities can be completed virutally, before your arrive, or during your trip.

There are no age limits on who can participate! Anyone can learn something meaningful and interesting about the park by completing the activities. Itʻs never too late to become a Junior Ranger!

A colorful cover shows native plants and animals and says "Junior Ranger Activity Book."

Junior Ranger Booklet

Do you have what it takes to become a Haleakala Junior Ranger? Give it a shot! The Junior Ranger programs are a huge part of many families' national park experience. At Haleakalā, Junior Rangers learn about the unique plants, animals, and history that we protect and preserve in the park.  Due to the park's phased reopening, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/hale/learn/kidsyouth/be-a-junior-ranger.htm">Junior Ranger activities</a> are available online.

When completing activities in the park with pets, be aware that pets are not allowed in the backcountry or on any trails. 

Complete activities featuring the plants, animals, and history of Haleakalā to earn your Junior Ranger badge!

Become a Haleakalā Junior Ranger

Schools and Education

Gift Shop and Souvenirs

A bookstore with shelves of books, bottles, and plush animals

HQVC Bookstore

The <a href="http://www.hawaiipacificparks.org/">Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association</a> (HPPA) is a nonprofit cooperating association working in partnership with the National Park Service in Hawaiʻi and American Samoa. Proceeds from our park stores support interpretation, educational programs, research projects, publications, and cultural activities. Park stores feature a wide range of merchandise such as books, maps, guides, collectibles, apparel, water bottles, plush creatures, educational games, and other items to enhance your visit and connection to the parks. 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 <a href="http://www.hawaiipacificparks.org/store/">online bookstore</a>.

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.

Shopping

Oceans

Hiking up to the bamboo forest takes approximately 30 minutes. Returning from the forest requires about the same amount of time. The total time for a round trip hike is approximately 1 hour. The trail is unpaved, uneven, rocky, contains exposed roots, and can be slippery following rain. Wear proper footwear and adjust your timing accordingly.

A canopy of bamboo rises from the left and right blocking out the blue sky above.

Pīpīwai Trail with Bamboo NPS

The Bamboo Forest is found along the Pīpīwai Trail in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park.

Polynesian voyagers brought many plants with them on their journeys across the Pacific Ocean. One such plant was the versatile ʻohe (bamboo). An instrument, ʻohe hanu ihu (nose flute), is made from ʻohe and the hollow tubes can also be used to start fires, carry water, or split to make irrigation troughs. When immigration to the Hawaiian Islands started to increase, new species of bamboo made their way to Hawaii. Today, many groves of different bamboo varietes can be found throughout the islands. On breezy days the leaves rattle and the bamboo stalks creak, clack, and pop! Hike one mile along the Pīpīwai trail to reach the bamboo forest and listen to this unique type of natural music. The trail begins to the left of the Kīpahulu Visitor Center. Be sure to have water, sun protection, and a snack for the trail! The trail is unpaved, uneven, and can be slippery following rain. If desired, the trail continues past the bamboo forest for another mile and terminates at Waimoku Falls.

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!

Moderate Hike up to the Bamboo Forest

Natural Sounds

The hike to Makahiku Falls is half of a mile (0.8 km) along an unpaved trail. Average hike time to the falls is approximately half an hour, and the same can be expected returning from the overlook. 

White waters fall over a cliff surrounded by verdant trees.

Makahiku Falls

From the parking area, head towards the Kīpahulu Visitor Center. Follow the paved trail in front of the Visitor Center to a T-intersection. The Pīpīwai Trail that will take you to the Makahiku Falls Overlook is on the left. The Pīpīwai trail is unpaved, uneven, and may be muddy. Be sure to have good footwear, water, snacks, and sun protection.

Hike to an overlook of Makahiku Falls by taking the Pīpīwai Trail. Make your way through a verdant canopy along the way to the falls. About 0.5 of a mile (0.8 km) into the trail you will reach the overlook of the nearly 200 foot (61 m) tall waterfall and the valley carved by these powerful waters. Turn around here for a 1 mile (1.6 km) roundtrip hike. This hike is great for visitors looking for a shorter hike that does not require a half day. The Pīpīwai trail continues past this point for another 1.5 miles (2.4 km) and terminates at another waterfall, Waimoku Falls. If you decide to continue, be sure to have water, snacks, rain gear, and sun protection. Reaching Waimoku and returning to the parking lot is a 4 mile (6.4 km) roundtrip hike.

Golden light. Verdant forests. White waters. View Makahiku Falls from the Pīpīwai Trail in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park.

Short Hike to Makahiku Falls

Waterfalls

This short hike is good for families, although the trail does have some steeper steps. 

A path with a railing leads to an overlook next to a deep volcanic valley

Leleiwi Overlook

Get out and stretch your legs on this short hike out to Leleiwi Overlook. Halfway between the Headquarters Visitor Center by the entrance and the Haleakalā Visitor Center at the summit, Leleiwi offers the perfect opportunity to take in the changing scenery and walk through a native Hawaiian shrubland.  Learn more about <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/leleiwi-overlook.htm">Leleiwi Overlook</a> and the layered history of this special place.

Pets are not permitted on trails in the park. 

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.

Mornings have a better chance of being clearer for expansive crater views. Walk the trail in the afternoon to see the clouds pushing up the mountain sides, or to even stand in a cloud yourself!

Short Hike to Leleiwi Overlook

Thickets and Shrublands

A roundtrip out to the lookout can be as short as an hour, but for younger children or folks who want to take their time, allow for two hours to complete the hike out to the overlook and back. 

a rocky trail follows a ridgeline surrounded by shrubs.

Scenic Overlook from Halemauʻu Trail

Begin your hike at the Halemau'u Trailhead. There are pit toilets here but no water, so be sure to fill up before arriving. The trail begins its moderate, rocky descent from the far end of the parking lot. The nēnē, Hawaiʻi's native goose, likes to spend time in the grassy areas of the trailhead. Give them a respectuful distance, and be careful when driving your vehicle in the parking lot.  

Hike to an overlook of both the Haleakalā crater and the Koʻolau Gap along the ridge of an erosional valley. Halemauʻu Trail makes its way through native shrubland to the edge of the crater and several specatular scenci viewpoints along the way. At 1.1 miles (1.8 km) the ridge drops away on both sides for an impressive overlook into a lush valley and the volcanic crater. Turn around here for a 2.2 mile (3.6 km) roundtrip hike. The rocky trail is not extremely steep up to this point, but hikers should be careful of loose or slick rocks.  On your way out there, be on the lookout for the endemic forest birds that frequent this native shrubland. For birding enthusiastists, the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/hale/learn/nature/birds-of-the-summit-district.htm">Bird Brochure</a> helps identify some of the most common birds you might see on this hike.  While birds can come and go, you'll probably have excellent luck in finding some of the native plant species. Common shrubs like the ʻōhelo, pilo, and māmane line the first mile of this trail. For a complete guide, check out our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/hale/learn/nature/plants-of-the-summit-district.htm">Plant Brochure</a>. The trail continues beyond the overlook and quickly loses elevation over a series of switchbacks that bring hikers to the crater floor. If undertaking a longer hike beyond this first mile of the trail, be sure to have snacks, water, rain gear, and sun protection. The return hike from the crater floor is strenuous and gains 1400 feet (430 m) of elevation in a few miles.

Pets are not allowed on the trails or in the Wilderness Area. 

Temperatures generally start off cool in the morning and warm up in the afternoon all year. Winter is the rainy season in Hawaiʻi, and there may be an increased chance for fog or storms in the afternoon, no matter the season. 

Meander through native shrubland to glimpse rare forest birds and a variety of plants found only in Hawaiʻi.

Moderate Hike to the Crater Edge

Animals

Birds

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.