The best walks and hikes in Haleakala National Park
4.7
(296)
3,780
hikers
28
hikes
If you've ever tried planning hiking in Haleakala National Park, you know how quickly the options can become overwhelming. With so many trails, it's hard to tell which ones are genuinely worth your precious time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in: our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed these routes, so we've curated a shortlist of the absolute best to save you the guesswork.
Hiking in Haleakala National Park is an experience unlike…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4.9
(130)
1,739
hikers
6.32km
01:55
230m
230m
The Pīpīwai Trail offers an enchanting journey through a lush Hawaiian rainforest, culminating in the spectacular Waimoku Falls. As you hike, you'll pass the impressive Makahiku Falls viewpoint, wander beneath…
4.9
(35)
351
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(36)
342
hikers
6.86km
02:22
380m
380m
If you're looking for Haleakala Crater hiking trails that transport you to another world, the Sliding Sands Trail is a must-do. This 4.3-mile (6.9 km) out-and-back route plunges you into…
5.0
(18)
128
hikers
22.8km
07:13
910m
910m
The Sliding Sands and Halemau'u Trail Loop offers an unparalleled journey through Haleakalā National Park's volcanic heart, starting with a descent into the crater that feels like stepping onto another…
4.8
(12)
111
hikers
3.59km
01:11
170m
170m
The Halemauʻu Trail offers a fantastic, easy way to immerse yourself in the unique volcanic landscape of Haleakalā National Park. This 2.2-mile (3.6 km) hiking route takes you along the…
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Popular around Haleakala National Park
Tips from the Community
You shouldn't jump into the water from here, as you might hit your head on the rocks.
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A remarkable natural spectacle, accessible via an easy hike, partly along wooden plank paths. Direct access is prohibited.
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Actually a hiking trail, but it shouldn't stop you...start as early as possible!
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This is a great lookout point, and a good turnaround point if you're only out for a day hike and don't want to hike down the switchbacks to the bottom of the crater. But if you're up for hiking just a little more there's another great viewpoint, Rainbow Bridge, where you can soak up more views and not have to climb very far back up the wall of the crater.
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This is a wonderful drive on an excellent road up to 3060 m altitude. We drove partly through clouds and short before the summit it cleared up and we got awarded with an outstanding view around the island.
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This majestic waterfall cascades down a sheer lava rock wall for 400 feet, creating a boulder-strewn pool at its base. It is one of the tallest waterfalls on Maui and boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. You will be greeted with mist, wind, and a vast jungle rock face that will leave a lasting impression. While you may be tempted to take a dip in the pool below, it's important to note that getting too close to the waterfall can be dangerous due to the risk of falling rocks from its 400-foot drop.
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This trail leads into the crater of Haleakalā Volcano, also known as Keonehe'ehe'e. This most stunning route section offers panoramic views that defy the imagination. As you continue your run down the trail, be aware of the loose gravel, as it can cause loose rocks and sand to find their way into your shoes. The descent can also be deceiving, so watch your energy for the challenge back to the trailhead.
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Split Rock is a large rock cut in half, and the Keonehe'ehe'e trail passes between the two parts. Here, the endangered Haleakala silverswords grow, and it's crucial to avoid touching them. These delicate 'ahinahina live for 3-90 years, producing a stunning flowering stalk before scattering their seeds. Park staff protect them by fencing out silversword-munching ungulates, removing non-native plants, and educating visitors to stay on trails and avoid stepping on fragile seedlings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Haleakala National Park?
There are over 25 hiking trails documented in Haleakala National Park on komoot, offering a wide range of experiences from easy walks to challenging expeditions. The komoot community has highly rated these routes, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 250 reviews.
What types of terrain can I expect when hiking in Haleakala National Park?
Haleakala National Park offers incredibly diverse terrain. You can expect to hike through volcanic crater landscapes with unique geological formations and cinder cones, subalpine desert environments at higher altitudes, and lush rainforests in other sections of the park. This variety provides distinct natural features across different areas.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Haleakala National Park?
Yes, Haleakala National Park has 14 easy trails suitable for families. An excellent option is the Waimoku Falls via Pīpīwai Trail, which is 3.9 miles (6.3 km) long and takes about 1 hour 55 minutes to complete, leading through a bamboo forest to a 400-foot waterfall.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints I can see while hiking?
Hikers can explore several notable landmarks and viewpoints. The Pā Ka'oao Overlook offers stunning views into the Haleakala Crater. You can also visit the Summit Building and the Waimoku Falls, a magnificent waterfall accessible via the Pīpīwai Trail.
Are there any challenging multi-hour hikes for experienced hikers?
Absolutely. For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) Trail Loop to Bottomless Pit is a difficult 14.2 miles (22.8 km) trail that takes approximately 7 hours 13 minutes to complete, leading deep into the Haleakala Crater.
What is the difficulty level of trails in Haleakala National Park?
The trails in Haleakala National Park cater to various skill levels. There are 14 easy routes, 8 moderate routes, and 3 difficult routes. This range ensures options for casual walkers, intermediate hikers, and those looking for strenuous, multi-hour expeditions.
Can I find trails that offer views into the Haleakala Crater?
Yes, several trails provide incredible views into the Haleakala Crater. The Pā Ka’oao Overlook and Keonehe’ehe’e (Shifting Sands) Trail is a moderate 4.6-mile path that descends into the unique volcanic landscape, offering expansive crater views.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the Waimoku Falls via Pīpīwai Trail is a popular route that leads through a bamboo forest to the impressive Waimoku Falls, a 400-foot waterfall.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Haleakala National Park?
The routes in Haleakala National Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 250 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the unique volcanic landscapes, the diversity of ecosystems, and the well-maintained paths that lead to stunning natural features like waterfalls and crater viewpoints.
Is there a visitor center in Haleakala National Park?
Yes, the Haleakalā Visitor Center is available within the park, providing facilities and information for visitors.
Are there any trails that include a 'Split Rock' feature?
Yes, the Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) Trail to Split Rock is a moderate 6.8 km (4.2 miles) hike that leads to the distinctive Split Rock formation within the Haleakalā Wilderness.
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