Haleakala Crater and National ParkDescriptionHaleakala, that literally means "House of the Sun", is the deep pit at the top of one of the Maui's dormant volcanoes. It sits at 10,023 feet above sea level. Actually, Haleakala is not a true crater, it was formed by erosion, but it has the shape of the crater, so the name has stuck for many years. Visitors have here a feeling, as if they were on the moon. And the reason of it is not only the lunar landscape. The air at Haleakala's summit has about 20% less oxygen than the air at the sea level. The Apollo Astronauts trained at Mount Haleakala.
In addition to the great views, Haleakala offers the unique experience: here you can witness a spectacular sunrise that you will not soon forget. In one moment the sun emerges over the crater walls and blasts you with intense light. It is really one-of-a-kind experience.
Bicycle tours from the top is another popular way to experience the Haleakala Crater and National Park. But be careful, it is one of those things that looks fun only before you do it. You will travel at high speeds in the cold, high altitude air, so take you warm clothes with you, otherwise you will freeze to death.
Getting TherePick up route 37 near Kahului Airport and follow it to route 377. Route 377 intersects route 378, which will take you to the top of Haleakala. It takes about two hours to drive from the Kahana/Kaanapali area to the summit and a bit less than two hours from the Wailea/Makena area (assuming no more than a few short stops on the way up).
Operating Hours The park is open 24 hours a day.
Park Headquarters Visitor Center is open 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Haleakala Visitor Center is open 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
If you want to watch the sunrise, you can find out the time of the sunrise by calling the National Weather Service at (808) 871-5054.
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