Magnificent place, phenomenal view, majestic view. Professional service very friendly and cordial, had all the answers we’re looking for, plenty of parking, handicap parking abundant. Gift shop well stocked with size options. Ring your camera, suggest coming early to observe the cloud movement into the crater. Beautiful. Some well maintained trails. Highly recommended. Enjoy!

Breathtaking Views, Even Through Renovations! The Haleakalā Visitor Center is currently being renovated, but that didn’t stop the experience from being incredible. No matter the time of day, the views are absolutely sick — you’re literally in the clouds, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and sweeping vistas. Even with construction, the center provides helpful information about the park, the crater, and the unique flora and fauna. It’s a must-stop for anyone visiting Haleakalā, whether you’re watching sunrise, sunset, or just taking in the otherworldly scenery during the day.

I've posted a review on this place before and it is the most enchanting place on the island in my opinion. Beautiful views sunsets sunrises if you can get an appointment and there are plants and Wildlife only available here in the world. Be mindful stay on trail watch out for the silver swords and the Ne Ne birds.

Most rangers are super friendly and very informative. Most are very excited about their jobs and are happy to amswer your questions with an exception of one grumpy, nasty gentleman with a scottish accent who kept his eyes on a tablet he was playing on while sitting at the counter. Instead of answering the question asked, he pretty much indicated that he is annoyed by tourists and them stucking their noses where they don't belong. The only thing that I asked was why were there posted signs stating that it's a hunting area and you can get shot there. Another nice lady was kind enough to explain. Aside from that grump, everything was absolutely amazing. Hiked the crater for about 2 hours. We were hiking before the sunset. It is hard to describe the stunning views which change with each step you take and as the sun changes position. Cameras don't do it justice, just enjoy it and take it in. If staying for sunset, go to the top, but make sure you show up at least an hour before or you won't find parking. Dress well as the temperatures go as low as 50 Fahrenheit. We packed warm clothes and still our feet froze. Thoiugh it was well worth it. We stayed till the very end as every second of that sunset was absolutely precious. Watching sunset beng located between clouds is an unparalleled experience. Make sure to schedule your trips to Haleakala and Hanna falls within 3 days. This way you pay park entrance fee once.

This visitor center is at the summit right on the rim. There is a large parking lot and decent restrooms. Also amazing views just outside as well as the start of the summit trails. Inside is a small store, limited exhibits and park rangers for info. See more pics and info on our website.

Got there about 1.5 hrs before the start of sunset and there was plenty of parking in the lower parking lot. I walked up to the summit to scope it out but decided that I liked the view from the lower lot better. I live in the high desert so the high altitude didn't bother me, but my aunt didn't feel well, so those who live at sea level should exercise caution.

Beautiful place, a bit chilly waiting for the sunrise but totally worth it! The drive was beautiful as well. Will visit again sometime

★★★★★ An otherworldly hiking experience! My wife and I were completely mesmerized by the Keoneheʻeheʻe Trail. Despite the chilly temperature, the hike was absolutely worth it - we truly felt like we were walking on another planet! The lunar-like landscape with its volcanic features, multicolored sand, and breathtaking vistas created an experience unlike anything else in Maui. We encountered unique wildlife (the native birds were surprisingly friendly!) and were constantly in awe of how the clouds would flow through the crater. This trail showcases a completely different side of Maui's diverse geological landscapes. One important tip: the descent is deceptively easy, but remember that you'll need to climb back up, so be mindful of how far you venture down as the return journey requires significantly more effort. If you want to feel like you're exploring Mars or the Moon while still on Earth, this trail is an absolute must-do!

We started with a hike into the crater — a vast bowl of shifting reds and grays, with volcanic cones rising like sculptures. It felt surreal, almost like walking on Mars. We ended the day at the summit, watching the sunset above the clouds as if the sky itself had dropped beneath our feet.

The trailhead is a good place to watch the sunset. The trail itself is very dusty but has wonderful views and you can go as far as you’d like. Be sure to bring as much water as you can carry and wear sunscreen!

Wowza beautiful trail. Looks like a painting and surreal. It gets cold and windy so pack pants and jacket. The sun is incredibly vibrant and bright and UV is high so even when it’s warm you need sunshirt with hood recommended. The brightness feels like morning even in afternoon. Pictures do justice to an extent the vastness is mind blowing.

This trail is a must when you are up there. It is breathtaking to hike down to the crater. The landscape is awesome and if you stop and listen it is just QUIET.

We started hiking right after sunrise, and it was beautiful. Keep in mind at this high elevation, it is cold in the morning and the UV index is pretty extreme. Bring a coat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The hike isn't too strenuous, but again, elevation plays a factor and makes it more challenging. Worth the trip!

The best trail at the summit! Easy to walk to many small volcanoes. But prepared to abrupt weather changes!

One of the best things I've ever done! We arrived an hour before sunrise and parking was still nearly full - thankful we got a spot. It was cold - I recommend pants, jacket and a big blanket. The sunrise itself was amazing. Check out my time lapse video! God's creation reflects His wonder!

Highly recommend sunset! Also to get there around 2 hours beforehand for parking! We chose to drive down after it started & it was a beautiful experience Partially wheelchair accessible especially with freewheel!

Beautiful sunset at the summit. It was very cold though so I would recommend getting some gloves to stay longer! The road to the summit was froggy but we end up above de clouds. We parked at the visitor center as there was a line of cars at the summit. A few people left once the sun was below the cloud as it gets even colder. We headed to the summit afterwards, totally worth it ! Road back is completely in the dark but the road is well maintained.

What an experience. We left Kaanapali around 2:15 pm, got there by 4:30 pm and, it was Saturday and we found parking easily. Make sure to go to the restroom before your way up to the summit. Some people who got there late, parked alongside the road which seemed okay too. We wore 3 layers of clothing with wind proof jackets. Just be aware it will be too cold and windy up there, my phone showed 49 degrees. The drive back was scariest but gladly we made to the hotel safely. We were lucky to have a great weather too.

Went for the sunset and star gazing, it was amazing. Highly recommend. Get there and hour and a half before sunset to get parking at the peak. Also maps will say it's an hour and a half drive but it's closer to 2 and half. You will also be driving through clouds on a cliffs edge at points so be careful and take your time. You have to buy sunrise reservations in advance.

We were NOT able to snag sunrise reservations so we went in the afternoon instead. It was cloudy and raining mid drive up but once we got to the top,we were above the clouds and it was blue skies and sunny. We couldn't see much below due to the clouds...which sounds like it's pretty typical (they roll in after the morning). It was still pretty cool to be that high and see the big fluffy clouds below. Kind of felt like we were on a different planet; the plants were cool and the rocks sounded like glass under our feet. On my bucket list to come back for sunrise! Bring a sweatshirt; it's pretty chilly at that elevation!

We've visited two times and Haleakala Summit was fantastic! The sunrise and sunset were breathtaking! both times we came, we were literally higher than the clouds. We had a covertible that we rented and the drive up and back down was super cool. the scenery along the way is nice. it was pretty dark and on the way down after our first visit, I saw some eyes hovering over the roadway, it turned out to be a group of cows. fortunately, we were driving slow enough, so no issues. Just a heads up, be careful. Also, the temp drops dramatically due to the high altitude, I suggest bringing a sweat shirt just in case. The park is well maintained and clean, the staff was friendly, helpful and informative, there is a plethora of histic facts posted throughout and the views are nothing short of amazing! I think it's really cool that they do biking, sunset & sunrise tours as well. If you're looking for a unique and breathtaking experience, I would highly recommend visiting Haleakala Summit!

Best place to watch the sunrise. We could even see the visitor center down below in the clouds. Relatively small parking lot though, sunrise was at 530 and when we arrived at 415, it was already half full. Suggest getting there at least an hour early for sunrise, otherwise the visitor center down below has some nice viewpoints if it's not cloudy. Deifntely bring layers. It was 38 degrees in June. Nice walking trails around the summit also, including a cool view of the telescopes. There's no services in this building or parking lot though. You'll have to go down to the visitor center for that.

We had to hike the 1/2 mile up. Was windy but pretty. Stay after sunset for the stars.

Haleakalā Summit is one of the most stunning and otherworldly places you can visit in all of Hawaiʻi. Most people come for the famous sunrise — and can be spectacular! — but if you want clear skies and fewer crowds, I highly recommend visiting in the mid-morning. You’ll have a better chance of those brilliant blue skies, and the lighting is gorgeous for photos! A lot of people refer to Haleakalā as a “crater,” but geologically speaking, it’s actually a massive erosional basin, not a true volcanic crater. It’s approximately 3,000 feet deep and filled with dramatic 1,000-foot cinder cones, making it feel like you’ve landed on another planet. Crossing the basin on foot would take 2–3 days, and there are hiking trails if you want to explore up close. It’s only about 60–75 minutes from Kahului Airport (depending on how often you stop to take pictures), and well worth the drive. (no street lights FYI, and very edge of the cliff with no guard rails as you get closer to the summit) Be sure to bring layers — it can be cold and windy at the top, even when it’s warm at sea level. It’s all about the windchill if we have our normal tradewinds it’s super cold up there but these last few years it hasn’t been so bad but you never know when it’s going to be so you can watch the weather as far as the wind is concerned. Even if they’re calling for rain, it’s a 95% chance it’s not gonna happen or only for a few minutes. (probably a slight exaggeration as I don’t really know the percentage ) This is a U.S. National Park, so there is a $30 entrance fee per vehicle, good for three days. If you have a National Park Pass or Senior Pass, it’s included. Don’t forget to check the park’s website if you plan to visit for sunrise — reservations are required for early morning access. Whether you’re interested in Hawaiian history, geology, photography, or just incredible views, Haleakalā Summit is a must-see. Truly a sacred and awe-inspiring place. And did I mention 10,000 feet in one hour? !! The first half is gradual the second half is switchbacks with no guard rails! on most of the drive. Which is why so many people want to take a taxi or a tour up there. Ubers are not allowed FYI.

Some of the best views of the volcano. There’s a small info center that you can get too from a slanted sidewalk or stairs. There’s are usually silver woods and nene’s there and great views of the observatory.

Worth the drive and if you’re lucky you’ll find rare flowers in bloom.

Beautiful place to catch the sunrise or sunset. Curvy road. Well maintained.

Very windy, unexpected view from what you see driving up.

The views from the top are absolutely mind-blowing. The trail is well-maintained all the way up to 10,000 feet, and seeing the sun above the clouds is something you don’t experience every day. This is definitely one of the must-do activities in Maui. If you’re a tourist or a local, you probably already know that—so don’t wait, just plan your sunrise trip! We went right after sunrise since we didn’t have a reservation, but next time, I’m definitely getting that damn reservation.

BREATH TAKING!!! SCARY!!! FUN!!!! All in one visit!!! This is one place, once in your life you should visit! We went there for the sunrise. But you can also go for sun down. Don’t buy tickets through an advertising company unless you want to take a tour bus or ride bikes down. We purchased our tickets through the government website and paid $1!!! Yes ONE DOLLAR! Took some time to get up there driving but well worth the drive. It’s cold when you get to the top… also a little different to breathe. But oh my god!! What a sight once the sun start peaking!! Breathtaking all the pun intended. The ride down in the daylight is kind of scary you don’t even realize how steep some of the cliffs are because when you go up it’s dark. Park rangers tell you that you are on your own so be weary of that. But it’s safe. Don’t let a little fear stop you if you are in Maui definitely make this part of your morning.

I am going to be honest upfront - I don't like "bald" type of mountains - without any greenery. Also, we travel a lot, so our expectations are getting higher and higher after each trip. That being said, after reading reviews I had pretty high expectations. Sunrise option wasn't available for us, so we went with the sunset. Parking was a nightmare even hours before the sunset, so take it into consideration when planning your trip. There are few trails nearby that we did since we had plenty of time to kill. Views were indeed like from another planet, but got old pretty quick. About an hour before the sunset light conditions were not very good for taking pictures, so keep it in mind if you plan taking photos out there. I was holding my breath waiting for sunset.... only to be puzzled by all these raving reviews how amazing it is... It was typical sunset, nothing really special in my opinion. Sunset from our Kihei condo was pretty much the same if not better. I didn't feel I was on top of the world. Before sun even remotely went down, the majority of people run to their cars and headed down creating a major traffic congestion. We packed picnic type of dinner and spent time in the car waiting for full darkness to see night sky and stars. There was only one other car left and again, nothing spectacular. Night sky in the middle of the ocean on the cruise is 100 times more impressive. One thing reviews were not lying about was the temperature drop once sun is down. I am glad we had hats and gloves with us. The wind was very cold making you feel uncomfortable.

Really unique park that you would not expect on hawaii because of the elevation. The best place to watch the sunrise was the summit building. We could even see the visitor center down below in the clouds. Relatively small parking lot though, sunrise was at 530 and when we arrived at 415, it was already half full. Suggest getting there at least an hour early for sunrise, otherwise the visitor center down below has some nice viewpoints if it's not cloudy. Deifntely bring layers. It was 38 degrees in June. Nice walking trails around the summit also, including a cool view of the telescopes. There's no services in this building or parking lot though. You'll have to go down to the visitor center for that. The visitor center near the summit was super helpful for maps of the park and the few hiking trails that start there and go through the "crater." A lot of good tips from the staff. Also, fantastic views of the "crater" that you don't get anywhere else right off the back walkway of the visitor center. On the ride down, there's a couple overlooks that provide for perfect photo ops of both sides of the island: kalahaku and leleiwi. The seven pools are still closed to swimming because of unpredictable floods, but it's also a must-see accessible via the road to Hana. Aside from the black sand beach and waterfalls, there's a lot of informative displays along the short .5 mile or longer 2 mile hikes there. The visitor center there is also a great resource for trail maps and other park information, also with a small gift shop.

Super cool! It's worth the drive and $30 park fee. Breathtaking views. Bring warm clothes + hiking shoes if you are going to hike! We messed up and didn't have anything warm, I'm still upset at myself for this, lol!

If your in Maui, this is not something you wanna miss. This is a must to visit and you won’t regret it! 100% Best time to visit here is either sunrise or sunset! For sunrise you need to book it in advance and it always sold out! We went on the sunset time, however come in like minimum 1 hour in advance, so that you can a parking on the summit or else you’ll be parking on the visitor center and will be probably walk a little further more. I would suggest bringing a jacket because it get cold once you’re up at the summit. Feels like a late fall whether in North America. Getting there is very winding and steep road, advice is that you’re gonna need someone who’s capable of driving it and with quite a bit of experience driving in the dark. Careful when you drive and always take your time! There’s also at the time a $30 fee for the entrance for the national park. They only accept card. Overall, this is quite an experience to do here at Maui and it’s something you don’t want to miss out! Have fun and respect the land!

One of the best US National Parks I've visited, $30 entry or free with America the Brave card Watching the sunset was alright but extremely cold, a stark contrast to the beach bathing suit attire at sea level so wrap up!!

SUPER windy and cold at the top to view sunrise. We had jackets and layers on and were still cold. Kids and I were huddled up at the entrance of the visitor center, which was still closed, to not be directly blasted by the wind. We woke up at 2 am to leave Kihei at 3 am to make it in time to see the golden hour and sunrise at 5-something. Saw many folks in light hoodies or shorts not able to handle the winds/cold and running back to their cars. You literally need thick jackets with hoods or thick blankets to withstand the weather elements in the morning. I realize this will be an unpopular take but I don't think the sunrise makes up for being blasted by the winds in the near-freezing temps. Also, there are TONS of people here for sunrise including tour operators and I saw many standing on rocks or off trails and getting yelled at by rangers. On the whole, I didn't think this was worth it but my wife thought otherwise.

Absolutely beautiful! What an amazing adventure and experience!

Wow, impressive like you just won't believe until you are here. The colors, the geography, and lost sense of the distance of this crater. It's tough to understand what distance you are looking at into you see someone hiking one of the trails below. I did not get a chance to hike, but spent a good few hours here and thoroughly enjoyed it. Wait for sundown if you can. Even if it is cloudy, the colors on the clouds is extremely gorgeous. Not hard to look at, at all. Oh yeah, you can see Hawaii from here.

We had a wonderful time here but wasn't going to spend 200 per head to go up on a tour bus because apparently if you want to go here for the sunrise you need to go online and reserve your spot maybe a month or more in advanve to do so. So we went up for the sunset it was still quite busy so I can see this eventually needing reservations so check ahead of time on these rules

Wow you literally have to drive above the cloud line to get there. It was an experience we will never forget. Over 10000 ft 3000 meters

Be aware that it's over 10,000 feet where the air is thinner, so take your time climbing the short trail to a higher vantage point. It cost $25US for two of us and our rental vehicle to enter the park. The drive from the bottom to the top was a bit longer than expected, took 45 minutes or so. Lots of turns and it winds all the way up the crater. There are multiple good spots to get photos on the way up, but I would suggest not bothering until you get to the top because you will then see everything. We have been previously in the morning, but this time we caught the sunset. It was truly amazing watching the sun set over the bed of clouds. It was very foggy on the drive up, so I was hoping that we would crest over the clouds when we first ally reached the summit. We were not disappointed.

5* location 5* beauty 3* accessibility ♿ Wonderful crator lanscape where one can get by the hiking trail, but there is also accessible parking with magnificent view over Haleakala trails, peak and crator right next to the observatory center. The trails are of an easy leven, whithout any steepness on the way, but pay attention that it is already around 9,000 ft above the sea level and it's pretty cold here... so some good warm cloths would really help!

Great views and experience. We did the morning sunrise view and it was truly magical - need to prebook parking quite in advance, check the site. - also need to buy a park entry ticket when you drive in. - drive is extremely windy and steep. And if going for morning drive - very dark with little lighting. Was warned some animals may appear too. - also very cold, bring blankets and warm clothing

Parking lot at the summit has great views of the observatories which are closed to the public. But check out the silverswords in the parking lot!

Breathtaking Sunset Above the Clouds 🌤️ Watching the sunset from Haleakalā Observatory is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The views are nothing short of breathtaking – seeing the sun dip below a sea of clouds from such a high elevation is surreal and unforgettable. That said, be prepared: the temperatures at the summit are surprisingly cold, even in Hawaii, so bring layers. We waited in line for over 30 minutes to get in, and parking was hectic with so many people trying to find a spot. The drive itself isn’t for the faint of heart – narrow winding roads with steep drop-offs can be intimidating, especially for novice drivers or those with vertigo. But once you’re there, every challenge fades away. Standing above the clouds as the sky turns vibrant shades of red and gold is magical. Despite the crowds and logistics, it’s absolutely worth the effort.

Mt. Haleakala Sunrise was Magical. My wife and I made the early morning drive from Kanapali Beach and would recommend everyone put this on their bucket list. The viewing areas are at over 10k feet, so you are above the clouds. The Colors you see when the Sun rises makes the drive worthwhile. 🌅

Amazing a must-visit bring a coat it's cold

There is an admission fee to this national park. The park is well maintained and very clean. You need to make a reservation to come early to watch the sunrise. You do not need a reservation during regular hours. Note: there is no food or gas for sale. Due to the high elevation, breathing can be a little difficult. There are two visitor centers, both have restrooms.

Didn't make it all the way up there but Road to it is stunning!

The views from this hike are really unique, with red mountain soil meeting green plants and lots of interesting succulents along the way! 🌵 The terrain is mostly reasonable, but the sands and gravel are slippery, so it is advisable to wear proper hiking boots. 🥾 Also, be careful going down as it takes about 1 1/2 times as long going back up! I drank about 1.5 litres of water. 🍶 There is a water refill station outside the bathrooms but nothing during the hike.

The Sliding Sands Trail (Keonehe‘ehe‘e Trail) is a well-known hiking route here, renowned for its spectacular crater views and otherworldly landscapes. Beginning near Haleakalā’s summit (at 10,023 feet), the trail descends into the crater, reaching depths of 2,800 feet. An overnight permit is required to go all the way to the bottom. Along the way, the volcanic terrain feels like stepping onto an alien planet, with lava flows, silversword plants resembling cacti, and breathtaking seas of clouds. It’s awe-inspiring! To our surprise, our little one walked the entire trail with us, chatting and laughing along the way! 👍 Looks like we, the adults, are the ones who need to work on our fitness! 😅

Did sunrise at Haleakala, had breakfast and then went down the Sliding sands trail that eventually meets with the Halemau’u trail that ends/starts close to the hiker pick up area —- took a little over 6 hrs with some stops. Recommend good hiking shoes, plenty of sunscreen and something waterproof (the clouds brought rain in and we were drenched but luckily had extra clothes). SO WORTH IT!

Summit to Halemau’u Trailhead hike (one way/through hike). Incredible hike. Super cool views at the top and very cool to watch the colors and vegetation change on the way down. You could also see the ocean on the north shore in a few spots. The hike up at the end was hard but great views and it was partially shaded by 3pm. The hike overall took exactly 6 hours with a few breaks of about 1 hour total. The app was a little off at times, but our final stats were 11.5mi and 2,500 elevation gain (2,200 gain the last 3mi).

Excellent trail. Don't need to be an advanced hiker by any means to do this trail. A few switchbacks at the end to get up, but nothing crazy. A few areas with cliff edge path, safe but if you're afraid of heights, keep this in mind. Tips: bring wide brimmed sunhat with string tie as it's quite windy. Hiking boots are a must, the terrain is quite rocky and it would hurt a bit through regular shoes. Bring at least two litres of water per person. Hiking poles are recommended. Bring layers of clothing including windbreaker. All trails map recommended as it's not super well marked and most of the hike has no cell signal.

Beautiful early in the morning after you see the sunrise. I made 10 km in total: to get down it was super easy and fun but going up was really tough. Consider that further you go down, more difficult it will be to go up, so evaluate your capabilities. At the end, I think it would have been fine to do 30 Min of trail one way and then to return up to the parking. I cannot say that by making 10 km I got a better view. But if you like walking, I recommend doing it (put layers as the temperature might change)

Gorgeous hike, pretty tough coming up but worth it.