Haleakala National Park is an inspiring outdoor classroom rich in cultural and natural history. Many visitors enjoy learning about the area they are visiting by interacting with park staff. Park naturalists present a variety of interpretive programs and hikes throughout the year.

Kipahulu Area Programs: Orientation talks and short hikes are offered periodically throughout the day as staffing permits. Inquire at Kipahulu Visitor Center Desk or call 808-248-7375.

Summit Area Programs: Summit area naturalists offer programs ranging from 15 minute talks to half day hikes. When you arrive in the park, stop by one of the visitor centers for the day's program offerings.

Waikamoi Cloud Forest Hike
Location: Hosmer Grove - Just inside park entrance.
Time: Monday and Thursday at 9:00 a.m. (staffing and weather permitting).
Reservation recommended.
Length: 3 hours, 3 miles, round trip.
Rating: Moderately strenuous.

Hike into the Nature Conservancy's Waikamoi Preserve. Here in windswept native cloud forests, native plants, birds, and invertebrates have woven an ecological fabric that supports some of the rarest and most beautiful of Earth's creatures. Once frequented only by those versed in proper protocol to enter the wao akua (realm of the gods), the preserve today is still off-limits except to those on special hikes led by the Nature Conservancy or park staff. Reservations are recommended. Make a reservation for the hike up to one week in advance by calling 808 572-4459. Show up at least 15 minutes early and be prepared with layered clothing, raingear, water and sturdy shoes.

A sampling of Special Programs... Call for dates, details and other program offerings: 808 572-4400.

Walk on the Wet Side
Location: Hosmer Grove - Just inside park entrance
Time: Sunday afternoon, usually once a month.
Reservation required.
Length: 5 hours, 5 miles (round trip)
Rating: Moderately Strenuous

This is a wet and muddy hike deep into The Nature Conservancy's Waikamoi Preserve. Experience a truly native Hawaiian forest. Discover the inhabitants of this healthy ecosystem. Access to this area is limited to organized hikes offered only by Haleakala National Park or The Nature Conservancy. Call 808 572-4459 to make a reservation up to one week in advance.

Kilo Hoku Star Program
Location: Hosmer Grove - just inside park entrance
Time: Occasional evenings from May to September
Length: 1 hour

Join park staff to travel the night skies over Hawaii. Through stories, you'll learn major constellations and the secrets of Polynesian navigation. Wear warm clothes and bring a flashlight and something to lay or sit on.