Haleakalā National Park has three visitor centers: Headquarters Visitor Center is open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Haleakalā Visitor Center from sunrise to 12:00 PM, and Kīpahulu Visitor Center from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, all open daily year-round.
Entrance fees at Haleakalā National Park are $30 for private vehicles, $25 for motorcycles, and $15 per person. Fees are valid for three days. Children under 16 are free. Separate $1 reservation required for sunrise viewing between 3:00 AM and 7:00 AM. Annual and lifetime passes also available.
Drive from Kahului via Haleakalā Highway and Crater Road; guided tours and limited bus routes available.
At Haleakalā National Park, there are two main parking areas: the Pu’u’ula’ula Summit Observation Deck at 10,023 ft for best views, and the Summit Visitor Center lot at a lower elevation with restrooms and oversized vehicle parking. No overnight parking. Reservations required for sunrise hours.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Haleakalā National Park spans over 33,000 acres of diverse volcanic and rainforest terrain on Maui. Its iconic crater, soaring summit, lush ecosystems, and cultural sites make it a destination for hiking, sunrise views, and spiritual reflection.
- Area (mi²)
- 52
- Annual visitors
- 1 000 000
- Established year
- 1916
Top 3 Facts about Haleakalā National Park
The crater of Haleakalā spans through 6 of the world’s 14 climate zones as you ascend to its summit, which is 10,023 feet above the Pacific Ocean. This unique elevation change creates a variety of ecological conditions within a relatively small area.
Haleakalā Crater is over 3,000 feet deep and seven miles long.
The summit rises over 10,000 feet, offering panoramic views and stargazing.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Review park maps and reserve campsites in advance. Tours fill quickly for sunrise access.
Pack Appropriately
Layered clothing is essential; weather changes rapidly from base to summit.
Respect Wildlife
Observe from a distance, don’t feed wildlife, and stay on trails to protect rare flora and fauna.
Stay Informed
Be aware of altitude effects; ascend slowly, take breaks, and hydrate.
Seasons
Mild weather, wildflowers, and fewer crowds make it ideal for hiking and photography.
Peak visitation season; warm, clear conditions perfect for sunrise, hiking, and camping.
Fewer crowds, colorful foliage, and comfortable temperatures offer peaceful exploration.
Off-peak but ideal for stargazing and cooler, quiet adventures with occasional rain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Haleakalā National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit Haleakalā National Park, it is best to stay in the towns of Kula or Hāna. Kula is closer to the Summit Area, while Hāna is nearer to the Kīpahulu Area. Both towns offer various hotels and bed-and-breakfast options.
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The Pipiwai Trail is a great option for kids, offering a 4-mile roundtrip hike through a bamboo forest and ending at the spectacular 400-foot Waimoku Falls. This trail provides an exciting and manageable adventure for families. Good footwear and plenty of water are recommended for the hike.
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Pets are allowed in certain areas, such as parking lots, roadways, and paved pathways, but they are not permitted on trails or at Hosmer Grove Campground. Service animals accompanying people with disabilities are allowed in buildings and may be permitted on hikes with permission from park rangers. Pets can also stay at the Kipahulu Campground.
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Parking is included with admission, but it can be challenging during sunrise and sunset at popular areas like the Summit and Puʻu ʻUlaʻula (Red Hill) parking lots. All parking lots are accessible to everyone.
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The best time to watch the sunrise is between 5:38 AM in the summer and 6:55 AM in the winter. You should leave your starting point on Maui no later than 3:30 AM to ensure you arrive at the summit with time to spare. A reservation is required for entry between 3:00 AM and 7:00 AM.