Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park is an inactive volcano which forms more than 75 % of the island of Maui. The crater is 3000 feet deep, 7. 5 miles long, and 2.5 miles wide. Haleakala has erupted at least ten times in the last 1,000 years and it is likely it will erupt again in the geological future. In the meantime, Haleakala is an impressive spectacle, with one of the largest dormant craters in the world, at nearly 20 miles in circumference.
Most visitors wind their way up to the 10,000 foot summit early in the morning to see the sunrise or wait until later afternoon to experience an unforgettable sunset, followed by an exceptionally clear view of the stars–stars so bright, you feel you can almost touch them.
The trip to the top takes approximately 2 hours, an other-worldly journey for sure. Be prepared for temperatures between 40 F and 60 F at the summit. If you are hiking expect breathing to more difficult because of the high altitude. There is no food or gas available in the park. You do not need a four wheel drive to reach the summit but beware of bicycles descending from the top of the mountain.
Haleakala National Park is open 24 hours a day unless weather does not permit safe access to the top. Price for admission to the park is $10 per vehicle and $5 for hikers and bikers. Visitors can enjoy Haleakala by hiking, bicycle, horseback, motorcycle or car.
Bike down from the 10,000 ft elevation of the Haleakala Volcano.
Visiting Haleakala National Park is truly a mountaintop experience, with the entire Island of Maui spreading out below you. Haleakala is a highly recommended Touch Hawaii adventure.
