The journey to Haleakalā and Upcountry Maui begins in Kahului at the Haleakalā Highway. The drive to the top of Haleakalā takes about 2½ - 3 hours depending on the weather and the traffic. Your drive will take you through beautiful woodlands and pastures with cattle grazing on the mountainside. You're likely to pass several groups of cyclists biking down from the summit of the mountain.
The winds on Haleakalā, especially the at 10,023 summit are often exceptionally strong. It's often difficult to hold a camera still to photograph into the crater. The hike to the top of nearby Pa Kaʻoao (White Hill) is strenuous but the views from the top are well worth the 15 minute hike.
Often the best views into the crater are to be found from the Kalahaku Overlook located at the 9324 foot level.
Haleakalā is a place of great importance to many people. To the Hawaiian people it is a place steeped in history, religion and culture. To the naturalist and geologist it is a place of great diversity and wonder.
The drive down from Haleakalā is somewhat easier than the drive to the summit.
For more information check out these related features:
Profile of Haleakalā National Park Summit Area - A Visit to the House of the Sun
Haleakalā National Park Summit Area Photo Gallery
Sunrise at Haleakalā
Sunrise at Haleakalā Photo Gallery
