Haleakala Crater Tours

We went for the sunset and star gazing. Even though the forecast was for mostly cloudy by the time the sun went down, the clouds were gone and the viewing excellent. For those that don't want to get up for the sunrise or can't get a reservation, this is a great option which we enjoyed very much.

The drive up to the crater has wonderful views and lookout points. The peak is above the clouds and the twin peaks of the volcanoes on the Big Island over 100 miles away can be seen also rising above the clouds. Haleakala crater itself is one of the most amazing places I have ever seen with 1000 foot cinder cones inside a huge area of multi-colored ash and lava. There are plants that are found on the side of the mountain that are found no-where else on the planet. Awe-inspiring!

You can go into the valley (its NOT a crater, so please just dump that terminology). This is an extremely rare unique place and has some amazing views. The drive up itself is something to remember. There are 2 easy summit "hikes". They are really quick walks, not hikes. 1st hike (white hill) is at 2nd visitor's center, 2nd hike (red hill) is at the summit just beyond the visitor's center. you drive 30 seconds to get there. The summit has a great indoor viewing building with excellent educational info that you can take in quickly. The views at these 2 spots are totally different. Do both, trust me. You can and should (you are there, what the heck) hike into the valley to a viewpoint, starting at the visitors center (sliding sands trail). 20 very easy minutes down, 30+ kinda taxing minutes coming back. Viewpoint isn't marked, but you'll know you are there. Reddish cinder cone will be close by, off to your left, from this natural overlook. Hiking beyond that overlook, you need to seriously consider the difficulties of hiking back out at this challenging elevation. Bring plenty of water, and plenty of clothing / hats to limit sun exposure! You'll also experience a weird combination of hot and cold breezes. Footwear will get totally covered in dust / dirt. Comes off easily, no worries. Don't go hiking into the valley in open-toed footwear, for many reasons.

Parking not so good.

Plan to go on your very first day as we are West coasters and we're up 3 hrs before anything opened up.

You dont need to get up at 3am and do the sunrise. Make it up by 8 or 9 and you will beat the clouds. Watch out for bikes. If you drive, switch drivers at the top so your partner can look.