Summit Building – Haleakalā Visitor Center loop from Pan-STARRS
Summit Building – Haleakalā Visitor Center loop from Pan-STARRS
3.1
(13)
76
hikers
Summit Building – Haleakalā Visitor Center loop from Pan-STARRS
01:44
5.78km
190m
Hiking
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Haleakalā Wilderness
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
979 m
Haleakalā
Highlight • Volcano
Tip by
981 m
Summit Building
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
1.17 km
Lava waves
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
2.65 km
Pā Ka'oao Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
2.97 km
Haleakalā Visitor Center
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
3.10 km
Sliding Sands trailhead with a view of the observatory
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
3.40 km
Missing Summit — Geological Signpost
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
3.64 km
Keonehe‘ehe‘e Trail (Sliding Sands)
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
5.78 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.09 km
1.83 km
855 m
Surfaces
3.45 km
1.99 km
299 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (3,040 m)
Lowest point (2,880 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Wednesday 24 June
21°C
13°C
37 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an accessible way to experience the otherworldly landscape of Haleakalā, the Summit Building – Haleakalā Visitor Center loop from Pan-STARRS is an excellent choice. This easy 3.6-mile (5.8 km) hiking route, with 617 feet (188 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 44 minutes to complete. It's a high-payoff win for those seeking dramatic volcanic vistas without a strenuous climb, making it ideal for families or anyone wanting a taste of the summit's unique environment.
What to expect on Summit Building – Haleakalā Visitor Center loop from Pan-STARRS
This loop offers a journey through Haleakalā's high-altitude alpine desert, where the terrain underfoot can feel like walking on soft cinder, similar to a beach. You'll be treated to panoramic, lunar views of a vast volcanic valley, dotted with colorful craters and ancient lava flows. Keep an eye out for endemic plants like the 'āhinahina, or silversword, which thrives in this harsh environment. While the hike is rated easy, remember you're over 10,000 feet (3,000 metres) up, so even gentle slopes can feel more demanding due to lower oxygen levels. The route is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the unique natural features of the summit area.
Planning your visit
The weather at Haleakalā's summit is notoriously unpredictable, so come prepared for anything. Temperatures can drop to freezing at any time, and strong winds and harsh UV rays are common. Dress in layers, bring sun protection, and carry plenty of water. Altitude sickness can be a concern for some, so take it easy and be aware of your body's signals. While there's no specific mention of permits for this particular loop, remember that Haleakalā National Park generally requires permits for entry, especially for sunrise viewing, so check the official park website before you go.
Trail details
- Distance: 3.6 miles (5.8 km)
- Elevation gain: 617 feet (188 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 44 minutes
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