The summit area of Haleakala National Park has over 30 miles (48 km) of hiking trails. Trails range from just 10 minutes to long overnight trips. You might hike in the native shrubland, looking for native forest birds and endemic plants, or in the aeolian cinder desert, exploring the geologic history of the summit.

The Kipahulu area of the park has about 10 miles (16km) of trails through the lush, green tropical coastal environment. Never cross streams that are flooding, and always check at the Visitor Center to ask about conditions before you head out.

• Stop by a visitor center to pickup a free trail map and check on current conditions before you head out. Or request one to be sent to you from our brochures page.
• Due to the fragile nature of the ecosystem it is required that hikers stay on the marked trials. Free trail guides are available at all visitor centers.
• Pets may not accompany hikers on the trails.
• No food, supplies, or gas is available in the summit area.
• When beginning your hike on a downward slope, allow for twice the time hiking to get out, i.e. 15 minutes hiking down + 30 minutes hiking up = 45 minute hike. Soft cinder trails create hiking conditions similar to walking on a beach in some areas.
• Trails are strenuous in the Summit Area because the high-elevation causes a lower concentration of oxygen in each breath. Altitude sickness is a concern. Be on guard for symptoms; nausea, headache, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Pregnant women and people with heart and respiratory conditions should consult their doctor before visiting and hiking in the summit area.
• In the summit area, temperatures commonly range between 30 to 65 degrees F (-1 to +18 defrees C), and can reach below freezing at any time with the wind-chill factor. Hypothermia is a danger. Hikers must be properly prepared for high altitudes and cold, rainy conditions.
• In the Kipahulu area temperatures are commonly warm and humid.