Maui is a truly a hikers’ paradise. From epic high elevation volcanic craters to lush tropical rainforests, there’s something for everyone at every level of hiking on Maui. There’s no place on Earth quite like Maui that captures the intersection of biodiversity and photography. Maui is home to several climates, including mountains, deserts, coastlines, and rainforests. Today we will highlight an amazing Maui hiking experience: Haleakalā Crater. Approximately 7.5-1 million years old, Haleakalā stands 10,023 ft above sea level. Haleakalā translates to “House of the Sun”, and is a very sacred and important geological site in Hawai’i.
Astrophotography at Haleakalā Observatory by Daniel Sullivan. Click on the image to be directed to the fine art photography print shop.
Maui Hike Highlight - Haleakalā National Park
Start at the Pu’u’ula’ula Summit, and catch an unforgettable Sunrise at Haleakalā National Park. To make a sunrise reservation, click here. For daily sunrise, sunset, and tide times visit this site.
One of my favorite hiking trails at Haleakalā is the Halemau’u Trailhead Hike know to locals as the switchbacks. If you’re looking for epic views of the crater, a great workout, and one of the most serene places on earth, this is it. Starting at 7,990 ft, this trail descends across a series of switchbacks to the floor of the crater.
Out of this world experience and spectacular views at Haleakalā National Park. Photo by Daniel Sullivan.
HIKING HALEAKALĀ - 5 ESSENTIAL TIPS
Pack your own water or bring a water filter. There is running water inside the cabin and faucets just outside the cabins, but it must be treated before drinking. There is also water available at visitor centers.
If you’re camping, check-in at the Visitor Center just inside the entrance gate. There’s a fee per car to enter. If you’re caught without a permit, you’re in trouble. As of right now, camping in the crate is prohibited until COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.
Haleakalā National Park follows the 7 leave-no-trace principles, which means if you pack it in, expect to pack it out. Yep, even those extra banana peels and apple cores.
Bring something for blisters, just in case. Duct tape works really well. Rather than packing an entire roll, simply wrap some tape around a bottle to save space.
Wear sun protection!! Even though its chilly at the summit in the morning and evening, if you’re hiking across the crater or down the switchbacks, the sun can blast on you. I recommend a hat, neck coverage, locally made reef-safe sunscreen, and sunglasses.
The Hawaiian Silversword, known as ‘āhinahina, can be seen flourishing in the crater. These plants are a rare and endangered species to Hawai’i, and can live to be almost 100 years old! Photo by Daniel Sullivan.
Visit the National Park Service Haleakalā National Park official website for more tips, trail guides, and information on everything Haleakalā. You should also check out a new nonprofit called the Halekalā Conservancy whose mission is “to inspire present and future generations to support projects and programs that preserve Haleakalā National Park”.
P.S. Don’t forget to schedule a photography tour with me on your upcoming trip to Maui or if you are looking to learn more about photography! Fill out a form here - or DM me on Facebook or Instagram! Mahalo for reading :).