Haleakala means House of the Sun and has been a sunrise visitor attraction since Samuel Clemens (aka Mark Twain) wrote “It was the sublimest spectacle I ever witnessed, and I think the memory of it will remain with me always”.

Sunrise and Sunset are extremely popular and beautiful times to visit.    A sunrise visit requires a reservation 60 days before you arrive.  Sunset does not require reservations.  These can also be the busiest times at the park.

The weather is highly unpredictable, especially at Sunrise.  Dressing in layers is suggested.  When I went, it was the middle of the day, however we did see the temperature change from the base to the summit as we drove.

We enjoyed the drive to the summit, stopping many times to take short hikes/walks and to see the landscape.  The summit (over 10,000 feet) was amazing and the view were spectacular!  It was mid-afternoon and quite warm on the day in late October, when we visited.  Thankfully there was parking, as it can be limited during peak seasons and times.

This is part of the US National Park system and the entrance fees work like many other parks.  Typically, it’s a single fee per vehicle.  However, the entrance has limited staffing so there are self-pay machines which accept credit card only.

The park typically offers free fee days a couple of time a year! Check the website for more information.

Official National Parks Website: https://www.nps.gov/hale/

There are many tours that include Haleakala such as a Sunrise Bike Tour or Helicopter tour.  Your Marvelous Mouse Travels Planner can assist with planning your Hawaii vacation!

Thank you to our Marvelous Mouse agent Karen Fitting for sharing her experience at Haleakala National Park!