Haleakala Summit
Maui's majestic volcano summit, offering breathtaking sunrise and sunset views above a sea of clouds. A sacred site with unique flora.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, no reservation needed
Haleakala Summit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, no reservation needed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Maui's majestic volcano summit, offering breathtaking sunrise and sunset views above a sea of clouds. A sacred site with unique flora.
"Sunrise above the clouds at Haleakala National Park = absolute magic. "
🧥 Dress in Layers!
It's extremely cold at the summit, even in summer. Bring heavy jackets, hats, and gloves.
🚗 Book Sunrise Reservations Early
Sunrise spots are limited and sell out fast on recreation.gov. Plan months ahead!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunrise Above the Clouds
Summit
Witness a magical sunrise painting the sky from above a sea of clouds. A truly unforgettable, bucket-list experience.
Sunset Over the Pacific
Summit
Experience a serene sunset casting a warm glow over the vast Pacific Ocean. Often less crowded than sunrise.
The Unique Silversword Plant
Summit area
See the rare Silversword plant, which blooms only once every 20-50 years. A unique endemic species.
Crater Views and Hikes
Summit and crater trails
Explore the dramatic volcanic crater landscape with short, scenic hikes offering stunning vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sunrise Reservations are Key
Sunset Offers More Flexibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Dress in Layers!
It's extremely cold at the summit, even in summer. Bring heavy jackets, hats, and gloves.
🚗 Book Sunrise Reservations Early
Sunrise spots are limited and sell out fast on recreation.gov. Plan months ahead! +2
⛽ Fill Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce. Ensure your car is full before starting the ascent.
🥾 Sturdy Shoes for Hikes
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for any hikes. White shoes will get dirty quickly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress in Layers!
It's extremely cold at the summit, even in summer. Bring heavy jackets, hats, and gloves.
🚗 Book Sunrise Reservations Early
Sunrise spots are limited and sell out fast on recreation.gov. Plan months ahead! +2
⛽ Fill Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce. Ensure your car is full before starting the ascent.
🥾 Sturdy Shoes for Hikes
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for any hikes. White shoes will get dirty quickly.
💧 No Facilities at Summit
Use restrooms before you reach the summit; there are no facilities available there.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera! The views are stunning, and you'll want to remember this experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of Haleakala Summit, particularly the sunrise and sunset views above the clouds. The unique Silversword plant and the dramatic volcanic landscape are also highlights. However, the extreme cold, the need for advance sunrise reservations, and the lack of facilities at the summit are common points of concern.
"The Haleakala Summit at 3AM is super cold (about 30 degrees) so please dress accordingly. No washrooms available so use the facilities before arriving to the Summit. There’s no handicap ramp available. The sunrise was gorgeous, majestic! After watching the sunrise we stayed a little longer to enjoy the view and take more pictures."
C Mendoza
"Beautiful! The hike was really cool! A bit tricky because you start with a downhill and finish with the uphill as it’s a back and forth hike but it’s really nice! I would recommend it the hike but do not were white shoes as they’ll not stay the same colour and its a bit windy at first so i would recommend it bring something on top of the t-shirt! We went there around 11am in June and it was not crowded at all! Booking required between 3 and 7am!"
Maëli
"Amazing view! Go at dawn to watch the sunrise over the island, mind that there are limited spots and you have to book in advance. To see the sunset there is no need of booking but to go to the summit you want to be there at least an hour before and you still need to pay the park entrance fee. If you want to stargaze check the moon phase to have a nice dark sky."
Giovanni B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The summit is accessible by car via Highway 377 and then Highway 378. The drive from central Maui can take 1.5 to 2 hours and is very windy. +1 Ensure your gas tank is full before you start, as services are limited.
The road is dark and winding, so drive cautiously. Many visitors make the drive for sunrise, so you'll encounter other vehicles. It's recommended to have a co-pilot to help navigate.
Yes, numerous tour operators offer guided trips to Haleakala for sunrise and sunset. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive yourself.
Parking can be challenging, especially for sunrise. Arrive early for sunrise reservations. For sunset, it's less crowded, but still advisable to arrive an hour before to secure a spot.
Unfortunately, there are no handicap ramps available at the summit. The terrain can be uneven, so visitors with mobility issues should plan accordingly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a reservation is required for sunrise viewing between 3 AM and 7 AM. These are released in batches and sell out quickly. +2 No reservation is needed for sunset or daytime visits, but the park entrance fee still applies.
The park entrance fee is $30 per vehicle, valid for three days. Alternatively, an America the Beautiful Pass ($80) covers entry to all national parks for a year.
Sunrise reservations must be made on recreation.gov. They are released in two batches: 100 spots 60 days in advance and 50 spots two days in advance at 7 AM HST.
The park is open 24 hours a day. However, access to the summit for sunrise requires a specific reservation between 3 AM and 7 AM.
Yes, the America the Beautiful Pass is accepted for park entry, covering the $30 per vehicle fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The summit is extremely cold, often near freezing (around 30°F or 0°C), with strong winds. It's crucial to dress in multiple warm layers, including a jacket, hat, and gloves.
The Sliding Sands Trail offers a unique hike into the crater, though it's a strenuous uphill return. The Pipiwai Trail in the Kipahulu District (part of Haleakala National Park, but a separate drive) is famous for its bamboo forest.
The Haleakala Silversword (ʻĀhinahina) is an endangered plant endemic to Maui's high-altitude volcanic regions. It's known for its silvery appearance and unique life cycle, blooming only once every 20-50 years before dying.
Yes, Haleakala is an excellent spot for stargazing due to its high elevation and minimal light pollution. Check the moon phase for the darkest skies.
Bring warm clothing, water, snacks, a camera, and a fully charged phone. A headlamp is useful for navigating in the dark for sunrise. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities at the summit. It's essential to bring your own snacks and drinks.
For dining options, consider visiting Kula or other towns in Upcountry Maui. Kula Lodge offers great views, and Kula Bistro is highly recommended for its delicious food.
Yes, picnicking is allowed in designated areas. Pack out everything you pack in to help preserve the park's natural beauty.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. The golden hours before and after these events also provide beautiful, soft light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during sunrise and sunset.
While photography is generally encouraged, be mindful of the environment. Do not disturb the Silversword plants or other natural features.
Drone usage is prohibited in Haleakala National Park to protect wildlife and preserve the visitor experience.
The summit overlooks offer panoramic views. The Hosmer Grove Campground area also provides scenic opportunities, especially for stargazing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks is essential, as there are no concessions within the park. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive crater and cloudscapes. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light conditions. Remember to be patient, as the light and cloud formations are constantly changing, offering new perspectives. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Sunrise vs. Sunset: Making the Choice
Sunset, on the other hand, provides a similarly breathtaking experience with a more relaxed approach. No special reservation is needed, only the park entrance fee. The drive up is less frantic, and while it still gets cold, the crowds are generally smaller. Many visitors find the sunset views to be just as magical and a welcome alternative to the sunrise rush.
+6Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities. If the iconic sunrise is a must-do, plan meticulously. If you prefer a more spontaneous and less crowded experience with equally stunning views, sunset is an excellent option.
Navigating the Drive and Summit Conditions
Upon reaching the summit, be prepared for a significant temperature drop. Temperatures can hover around freezing, even in summer, and the wind can make it feel even colder. Layering is essential. Pack heavy jackets, hats, gloves, and warm pants.
For those interested in exploring beyond the summit viewpoints, several hiking trails descend into the crater. The Sliding Sands Trail is a popular choice, but be aware that the return journey is a strenuous uphill climb.
The Unique Ecology of Haleakala
It's a symbol of resilience and rarity, and visitors are urged to admire it without touching or disturbing it. The park's volcanic landscape itself is a geological marvel. The vast crater, often filled with swirling clouds, creates an otherworldly atmosphere. Beyond the summit, the park also encompasses lush Kipahulu Valley, featuring the famous Pipiwai Trail through a stunning bamboo forest and past cascading waterfalls.
Conservation is key to preserving Haleakala's natural beauty. Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and avoid feeding wildlife.
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