Introduction
Haleakalā National Park is located on the island of Maui in the state of Hawaii. Named after Haleakalā, a dormant volcano within its boundaries, the park covers an area of 33,265 acres, of which 24,719 acres is a wilderness area. The land was designated a national park in 1976 and its boundaries expanded in 2005.
Recommendation
Watch the sunrise/sunset: This is the most popular thing to do on Haleakalā. More than half a million visitors per year. Haleakalā Crater is the best place for this.
Go stargazing: Hawaii is known worldwide for its amazing stargazing and observation sites.
Go hiking: The Pipiwai Trail is known for its bamboo groves and it is the best hike on the island. The total length is 2 miles. The trail reaches a dramatic terminus at the 400-foot-high Waimoku Falls.
Tips
1. Make sure to check the time of the Haleakalā sunrise and plan to arrive about 30 minutes prior. The most crowded sunrise viewing place at the park is the summit visitor center overlook. You can avoid the crowds by going to the Kalahaku Overlook.
2. Remember to dress for cold weather because the temperature is often below freezing.
3. Cabin reservations often sell out early. For info on cabins in Haleakala Crater visit the wilderness cabins section of the park’s website. For wilderness camping, permits are available at the park visitor center and are completely free of charge.