Haleakalā, a dormant volcano that towers over the island of Maui, is a force of nature in every sense. At 10,023 feet above sea level, this majestic summit offers breathtaking views of landscapes—and skyscapes—that are truly unparalleled.

The Haleakalā Sunrise

One of Maui’s most memorable experiences is witnessing the Haleakalā sunrise from almost 10,000 feet above sea level. As the sun peeks over the horizon, an ever-changing swirl of color and light dances across the vast sea of clouds. This sight has been described as “the most sublime spectacle” and is definitely worth the early wake-up call.

To view the sunrise, visitors are required to make a reservation. The National Park Service requires a reservation for visitors in personal and rental vehicles to enter the Summit District from 3:00 am to 7:00 am. The one-day sunrise reservation can be made up to 60 days in advance. The park entrance fee is separate and payable on the day of visit.

The Journey to the Summit

Depending on where you start from on Maui, it can take up to two hours to drive the Haleakalā Highway (HI 37) and then up the winding Haleakalā Crater Road leading to the summit of Haleakalā. It’s recommended to arrive at the Haleakalā Visitor Center no later than a half hour before the sun rises for a good spot. In the summer, the sun rises as early as 5:38 AM, while in winter it can be as late as 6:55 AM.

Dressing for the Summit

Despite being in Hawaii, it gets very cold at the summit. The temperature drops 3º for every 1000 feet of elevation, so at the Haleakalā Visitor Center’s 9,740-foot elevation (where most people watch the sunrise), it’s about 30º colder than at sea level. Be sure to bring pants, shoes, layers of clothing, and blankets. Temperatures are often in the 40-degree range.

Beyond Sunrise

One common mistake visitors make is leaving immediately after the sun rises. If you stay just ten to twenty minutes later you’ll be treated to an incredible show as the colors of dawn stretch across the landscape of Haleakalā National Park.

The Haleakalā Sunset

Not an early riser? Consider experiencing sunset at Haleakalā. With its flaming clouds, it is as breathtaking as its morning counterpart although a little less known. As with sunrise, bring a snack, drinks and hang out for a while as dusk transforms into a starry night.

Guided Tours at Haleakala

Haleakala offers a variety of guided tours that cater to different interests and physical abilities. These tours provide an in-depth exploration of the park, led by knowledgeable guides who can share fascinating insights about the area’s unique geological and ecological features.

Sunrise Tours: These tours start early in the morning to catch the breathtaking sunrise from Haleakala’s summit. The tour includes a guided vehicle tour of Haleakala National Park and Upcountry, providing an opportunity to learn about the park’s interesting geology and ecology.

Summit Tours: These tours focus on Haleakala’s dramatic volcanic amphitheater. The excursion kicks off with a guided vehicle tour of Upcountry Maui before visiting Haleakala National Park.

Sunset Tours: For those who are not early risers, sunset tours offer an equally mesmerizing experience. The tour includes a guided vehicle tour of Upcountry and Haleakala National Park.

Road to Hāna Tours: This tour offers an in-depth exploration of East Maui, from the windswept north shore to the rocky Keʻanae Coast and beyond.

Accessibility Options at Haleakala

Haleakala National Park is committed to making its natural beauty accessible to everyone. Here are some of the accessibility options available:

Wheelchair Accessibility: The park is considered partially accessible for wheelchair users. There are designated handicap accessible spaces available at all overlooks and in the parking lots of the visitor center and the summit.

Accessible Transportation: Accessible Transportation: There are several accessible forms of transportation on the island including accessible van rentals and an accessible taxi service. The County of Maui Department of Transportation provides ADA para-transit service through the Maui Bus.

Helicopter Tours: For those who prefer a bird’s eye view, helicopter tours offer an exciting way to experience Haleakala. Helicopter tours are a great option for those with mobility issues as they require minimal physical exertion while offering maximum sightseeing value.

In conclusion, whether you’re exploring on foot, by vehicle, or from the air, Haleakala National Park offers a range of options to ensure that all visitors can enjoy its stunning landscapes.