The Haleakalā Crater is an unmissable part of any visit to Maui. Surrounded by protected parkland and filled with native fauna and flora, this impressive natural feature offers views, exploration and a chance to see geology in action.
Haleakalā, also known as the East Maui Volcano, is the bedrock on which most of the island of Maui stands. Together with the volcano of the West Maui Mountains, millions of years of lava flow built up from the seabed to form the island of Maui. Today, this towering volcano is dormant, and its fertile soil is home to the Haleakalā National Park, which spreads over 135 square kilometres.
The best way of exploring Haleakalā is on foot, but because of the scale of the park, you should take advantage of the many roads running through it to get close enough to walk. Drive to the visitors’ centre for stunning views across a landscape that many have described as Martian in appearance. The red colour comes from the rocks here – the tallest peak in Maui at over 3,000 metres tall, and which sits in the park, is called Puʻu ʻUlaʻula or Red Hill. This is a popular climb, and many visitors aim to arrive in time to see dawn breaking while they stand above the clouds.
Haleakalā Crater is the park’s biggest attraction. And not just in terms of popularity – the crater itself is a massive 12 kilometres long and 4 kilometres wide. To get to the crater, make your way to the Summit Area and follow the paths up from there. It is easy to see why this immense geological feature has captured visitors’ imaginations for centuries – according to Hawaiian folklore, this was where the grandmother of the demigod Māui lived.
Haleakalā means “House of the Sun”, and sunrise is the most magical time of day here. As dawn breaks, the wildlife in the park comes to life – head up to the Kipahulu section of the park to catch a glimpse of rare birds and beautiful butterflies fluttering around lush greenery and colourful flowers.
Haleakalā National Park is open all year round. The terrain can be rough, so wear appropriate footwear, and bring layers to protect against the cooler weather as you climb.
