The best walks and hikes around Haleakala

Yes, the park offers several options suitable for families. In the Kīpahulu District, the famous Pīpīwai Trail is a great choice, leading through a bamboo forest. For a different experience in the Summit District, the Waikamoi Ridge Trail is a short loop that offers a glimpse into the area's unique forest life.

Dressing in layers is essential. The weather can change rapidly, especially in the Summit District where temperatures can be much colder than at sea level. We recommend sturdy hiking shoes, a waterproof and windproof jacket, a hat, and sunscreen. For crater hikes, the high altitude and sun exposure make sun protection critical.

While most day-hiking does not require a specific permit, reservations are mandatory for vehicle entry to the Summit District between 3:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. for sunrise viewing. Additionally, permits are required for all overnight camping and cabin stays. For the most current information, it's best to check the official National Park Service website.

Absolutely. The Kīpahulu District is famous for its waterfalls. The Pīpīwai Trail is the premier waterfall hike in the park, culminating at the base of the spectacular 400-foot Waimoku Falls. The trail itself passes several other smaller falls and pools along the way.

Hiking inside the crater, such as on the Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) Trail, means walking on volcanic sand and rock. The terrain can be loose and uneven. The high altitude (over 9,000 ft / 2,740 m) makes hikes more strenuous due to lower oxygen levels, so it's important to pace yourself and bring plenty of water.

Yes, hiking after sunrise is a popular activity. A great option is the Pā Ka’oao (White Hill) Trail near the visitor center. It's a short walk that provides fantastic views into the crater as the morning light fills the landscape.

For those seeking a challenge, the park has several difficult hikes. The Keonehe‘ehe‘e Trail Loop to Bottomless Pit is a long, demanding trek deep into the crater. Another strenuous option is the Silversword Loop, which combines significant distance and elevation change at high altitude.

The trails in Haleakalā are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the otherworldly landscapes of the volcanic crater and the lush, vibrant scenery of the Kīpahulu District's bamboo forests and waterfalls.

Yes, Haleakalā offers a unique wilderness experience for backpackers. You can hike between three historic cabins located within the crater: Hōlua, Palikū, and Kapalaoa. This requires advance reservations and a permit, as well as careful preparation for changing weather and rustic conditions. The Halemau‘u Trail to Hōlua Cabin is a popular segment of these longer treks.

Yes, if you're looking for a different kind of forest hike, the Kahakapao Loop Trail in the nearby Makawao Forest Reserve is a local favorite. It offers a cooler, shaded experience through eucalyptus and pine trees.

The park is filled with incredible viewpoints. For a short walk with a big payoff, the trail to Leleiwi Overlook can offer stunning crater views and sometimes the 'Brocken spectre' phenomenon. For a view from within the crater walls, the switchbacks on the Halemau‘u Trail provide a dramatic perspective looking down into the valley.

There are nearly 80 designated hiking trails in and around Haleakalā. These range from short, easy nature walks under half a mile to strenuous multi-day backpacking expeditions, covering the diverse landscapes from the volcanic summit to the coastal rainforests.