Hiking near Haleakalā National Park Cabins delivers you into verdant volcanic landscapes that slide down into the glimmering ocean. The law requires hikers to remain on the marked trails in order to maintain the delicate balance of Hawaii's ecosystems. While hiking in the park, be aware that weather conditions can change rapidly. Don't miss out on these hikes through this extraordinary natural environment:
Wreathed in mist, the mouth of the volcano bears itself in the gilded morning sunlight. Down the southern side of the volcano, this trail winds silently over crunchy cinders to a photogenic crater. The full trail unfolds over 9 miles through forests adorned with the flowering evergreen, ohi'a lehua. The elevation of the volcano's summit reduces the amount of oxygen in each breath, which can lead to symptoms like nausea, headaches, and dizziness. Give yourself about double the time for the ascent that you would need to get back down to the foothills.
Follow 3 miles of trail through a plenitude of green plant life. Ribboned with delicate streams and interspersed with red sprays of ohi'a flowers, this surreally beautiful trail epitomizes the tropical allure of Hawaii.
The loop trail south of Kawlinau holds the most picturesque vista of the crater. The goddess Pele reputedly created the islands of Hawaii in a fit of passionate rage which still simmers in the volcano to this day.
More endangered species live right outside Haleakalā National Park Cabins than in any other American national park. Due to the incredible isolation of the island, the introduction of new species was extremely rare, leaving the island's native species open to extinction once humans had altered the local ecosystems. In this unique park environment, the nature is unparalleled. Here's how to experience it to the fullest:
Fly through canopies of eucalyptus trees and across canyons on 5 different zip lines. Visit Maui Lavender Farm next door before ascending the slopes of Haleakalā and zooming down once more, this time on cycling tracks that zigzag down the slope, providing natural acceleration.
Catch glimpses of bright birds shuffling through the scented pine and eucalyptus trees at Homer Grove. You'll spot nene, or Hawaiian geese, and other rare birdlife along this 1-mile loop trail.
Tucked away in ghostly bamboo groves, this graceful waterfall is surrounded by dense foliage which adorns 200-foot high basalt cliffs. Ancient banyan trees flourish near the Palikea Stream, and the bamboo trees make music together in the breeze. Waimoku Falls just along the boardwalk shoots 400 hundred feet downwards in a single rivulet.
According to Hawaiian legend, the demigod Maui imprisoned the sun on the island to lengthen the days. You'll find that family time in this pristine volcanic landscape radiate in gold just as the god intended. Here are the most golden family activities to enjoy at the park:
Stop by the Kipahulu Visitor Center to take part in traditional Hawaiian cultural activities, such as shell and seed lei-making demonstrations, weaving workshops, and world-famous hula dancing. Your family will love listening to the Hawaiian music and mo'olelo stories. The legends that surround the islands will transform your experience of this profoundly spiritual place. Take ukulele lessons and listen to Hawaiian steel guitar performances. Featherwork demonstrations and bamboo stamping delight children.
For more than 40 years, the University of Hawaii has carried out in-depth astrophysical experiments at this location. Due to the observatory's unique position on the face of the earth, these experiments have their exclusive laboratory here. One of the primary functions of the facility is observing satellites and debris in orbit around the earth. Stargazing at hotels near Haleakalā National Park, over which galaxies swirl nightly, is one of the most memorable experiences on the island.
Ascend to the highest point on the island. You'll feel as though you're on top of the world when you cast your eyes on the breathtaking panorama from the summit. The play of light dresses the crater alternately in grays, greens, and ochres.
