You can’t miss Mt. Haleakala when you visit Maui…literally. The world’s largest dormant volcano towers 10,023 feet above sea level and forms over 75% of Maui. So, yeah, it’s kind of a big deal in every sense of the word, but that’s not the reason why you need to pay our granddaddy volcano a visit. Mt. Haleakala is also beautiful, offering you a trip through a huge variety of ecosystems. There’s are also tons of different ways you can enjoy the volcano, from family friendly hikes, to teeth-rattling biking, and romantic star gazing. Put Mt. Haleakala on your Maui to-do list!
See the Sunrise and Sunset
We don’t mean to brag (yes we do), but Maui sunrises and sunsets are some of the most beautiful in the world. The only thing better than watching the sky light up in amazing colors from the balcony of your vacation condo is to see it from the top of the world on the peak of Mt. Haleakala. The volcano is so tall that you’ll be able to get an amazing view of the sun greeting the sky in the morning or the beautiful show it puts on as it sinks into the water at night. If you’re looking for that perfect romantic outing that your special someone will remember forever, this is it.
Take a Hike
Surrounding Mt. Haleakala is Haleakala National Park stretching over 30,000 acres, most of which is pristine wilderness. Whether you are on a solo vacation or with the whole family, the park is crisscrossed with hikes that will make for the perfect outing. Depending on how far you want to go, these hikes are as short as half a mile or as long as the arduous Sliding Sands Trail that meanders over 10 miles, depending on how far you want to go. Along the way you’ll get to view lots of unique wildlife, flora and fauna, including towering redwood trees and plum trees.
Star Gazing
Without the glow of a nearby city washing out the rich blackness of the night sky, you’ll be amazed at how many stars you can see glittering like diamonds overhead. Star gazing at the top of Mt. Haleakala can be an experience that shifts your soul and makes you feel part of the greater universe around you. This is a great thing to do with children, good friends, or your life partner. Make sure you bring warm clothing. The temps drop quickly that high up.
Biking
If you’re the kind of person who picks surfing over paddleboarding or would prefer to be jumping out of the plane rather than taking a standard aerial tour, then a hike around Mt. Haleakala might be a little too boring for you. Instead, rent a bike, bring it to the top of Mt. Haleakala, grab those handlebars tight, and start going down. Adrenaline junkies love rolling down the challenging trails of the volcano. You’ll zip past many beautiful sights while keeping the excitement high.
Horseback Riding
If you’d rather not put your legs through all the trouble of hiking Mt. Haleakala, hop aboard a friendly horse and see where your new four-legged friend will take you. A few different outfits offer horseback rides around Haleakala National Park. The experience can be relaxing and fun as you enjoy the lush surroundings. A horseback ride will definitely offer you some nice vacation pics and will get the kiddos excited!
Need some more ideas of what to do during your time at Mt. Haleakala? If you are booking a vacation condo through Ali’i Resorts, just give us a call. We’re full of ideas that we’d love to share!
