Trip Idea

A Half Day at the Summit

Multiple Parks

Clouds begin to fill in a volcanic valley dotted with cinder cones.
Duration Half Day
Topic(s) Geology, Mountains, Scenic Views, Trails, Unique Species, Endangered, Rare, Volcanoes, Wilderness, Thickets and Shrublands more »
Activities Hiking
Type Kid Friendly, Inspirational, Outdoors
Parks Haleakalā National Park

On Top of the World

For those making the most out of a few hours in the park, head for the moutain's peak. The crater vistas are an easy walk from the parking ares, and you can choose just how much of an adventure you want. Don't forget to make your way to the very tippy-top, Pu'u'ula'ula, which towers over the island of Maui at 10,023 feet above sea level. Marvel at the 'āhinahina (silverswords), snap some quick panoramas of the neighbor islands, and you're on your way!

Getting There

The Summit District is about an hourʻs drive from Kahului and Kihei, and an hour and a half from Lahaina, depending on traffic. Within the park, itʻs about a thirty minutes to drive from the entrance gate to the summit itself.

Know Before You Go

This district is remote, and there is no food or gas available within the park. Come prepared with snacks, plenty of water, and protection for both rain and sun. Conditions change frequnetly and can be very intense. As always, recreate responsibly.

  • Haleakalā National Park

    Short Hike to Leleiwi Overlook

    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: No
    • Activity: Hiking
    • Pets: No
    • Location: Leleiwi Parking Lot
    • Duration: 30–60 Minutes
    • Season: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
    • Time of Day: Day
    A path with a railing leads to an overlook next to a deep volcanic valley

    Take a short .3 mile (.5 km) roundtrip walk out to Leleiwi Overlook. Pass native plants on your way to a spectacular view of the crater and the Koʻolau Gap.

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    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: No
    • Activity: Hiking
    • Pets: No
    • Location: Keoneheʻheʻe Trailhead
    • Duration: 1–2 Hours
    • Season: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
    • Time of Day: Day
    A trail leads down into a colorful volcanic valley.

    Enter the park's Wilderness on the Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trail and take a moderate out-and-back hike partway down the windswept cinder slope. This is among the most popular hikes in the park thanks to its unbeatable crater views.

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Last updated: February 2, 2021