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Haleakala National Park Hiking Trail
Haleakala Tips
If you’re looking for a great Haleakala summit hike- one that just may be the best Haleakala summit hike, in fact- then Sliding Sands Trail is the perfect trek for you.
Located inside Haleakala National Park, this trail is definitely not an easy hike, but your efforts will be greatly rewarded.
The Keoneheehee (Sliding Sands) Trail starts beside the road in the Haleakala Visitor Center parking lot. The current NPS Summit Area trail table lists a 0.5-mile round trip to the first overlook with about 50 feet of elevation change. Reaching the crater floor is a much larger commitment: NPS lists it as 3.9 miles one way with almost 2,500 feet of descent, all of which must be regained if you return the same way. NPS advises allowing twice as much time to climb out as you spend hiking down. Stay on the marked main trail and do not enter any signed closed side trail.
For overnight trips, NPS lists Kapalaoa Cabin as 5.6 miles via Keoneheehee Trail (rounded to 5.5 miles in its cabin overview) and Paliku Cabin as 9.3 miles. On long treks to the central valley or beyond it is recommended that you hike the Halemauu Trail out of the valley due to the steepness and soft cinder base of the Keoneheehee Trail.
Haleakala Travel Tips
- Take water and necessities for hiking
- Wear proper clothing- it can be cold at 10K+ feet
- Wear sunscreen- the rays are harsh at this elevation
- Carry a hiking pole- it makes the climb back out of the crater much easier
- Prepare for this hike by getting a decent meal and good night's rest the day before.
A bit of wisdom from those who have lived and learned: hiking this trail with too little energy due to lack of food and sleep makes it about 10 times harder than it needs to be. So, for your safety and enjoyment, start out prepared and well-rested. Check out our Haleakala Packing List for everything you'll need to stay safe and comfortable- whether you'll be camping or just exploring on a day hike.
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Haleakala Tours
Visiting Haleakala is definitely a Maui bucket list adventure. Otherworldly landscapes, perhaps the world's best sunrise, and stunning views all around make for an unforgettable experience. We are proud to feature some of the best Haleakala tours- whether you choose to hike the summit, zip down on a bicycle, or fly over the crater. Book your Haleakala experience today, as these tours can fill up fast.
More Haleakala Information
Wondering where to stay near Haleakala and what to expect once you're there? Everything you need to know- from tips, hiking trails, sunset times, and silverswords- is all right here.
