Ahihi Bay Trail

If you're headed up to Haleakala to catch the sunrise or sunset at the summit, leave a few hours before or after to do a quick hike into the crater on the Sliding Sands Trail.This is not an easy hike (high elevation and therefore lower concentration of oxygen, altitude sickness concerns and steep climbs*), but the different perspectives of the Haleakala crater make it very worthwhile! Depending...

Haleakala means "House of the rising sun" and is a wonderful description of the mountain. Haleakala is a large dormant volcano that makes up ~75% of the island of Maui. On the slopes of Halekala are rain forests, pastures, endemic birds, the endangered but beautiful silversword, and a summit that has one of the best sunrises in the world.This spot will have fewer people (although you will not b...

Head to Haleakala's summit for amazing views of the island and your choice of a stunning sunrise or sunset. Keep in mind that you are 10,000 feet up once you're at the summit, so be prepared with warmer layers. If you're planning to get there early for the sunrise, make sure to bring a little food with you as there's nowhere to pick supplies up inside the park.For those looking for a real chall...

It can be difficult to spot the trailhead and parking lot, but look for an opening in a pack of trees off of Highway 30. If you are traveling with one car, make sure to come back down the same way from the crest. If you have another car with you, alternatively, you can park one at the east side and one at the west. The east side is really tough on the legs and is eroding quite a bit, however, s...

Day 1, the trailhead begins just off the highway at 7,990 feet elevation and takes you to the north and east to an opening in the ridgeline. After 1.1 miles, you will begin your 2.6 mile descent from the crater ridge south, into the heart of the wilderness area and where you will arrive at Holua Cabin and campsites at 6940 feet elevation. From here you can set up camp and refill water. Note: Th...

Hosmer Grove is the closest drive-up campground to the Haleakalā summit. Camping at 7,000 feet you should be prepared chill, fog, and rain during the evening and morning. Nighttime temperatures can drop close to freezing while daytime highs average around 50-60s.As soon as you turn onto Highway 378, be prepared with a full tank of gas, plenty of food, and all of your overnight supplies. The twi...