Haleakala National Park & Crater - Maui, Hawaii

Address:Makawao, Hawaii
Tel: (808) 572-4400

This heavily-visited Maui park not only preserves the Haleakala volcanic landscape but also several rare and endangered endemic species. The park is divided into two separate regions: the Summit Area, which includes the volcano, and the Kipahulu Area. The Summit Area is known for its picturesque and diverse landscapes and wildlife. You may spot a nene (a Hawaiian goose), found nowhere else in the world. The massive and marvelous Halakalea Crater should be one of your main stops in the Summit Area. The crater is so impressive that one day may not be enough if you want to really take your time exploring this natural wonder. This is where overnight lodging comes in handy (just be sure to reserve a space way in advance).
In contrast, the Kipahulu Area on the coast is famed for sparkling natural pools along the Palikea Stream filled with beautiful rare fish. Silver waterfalls and vibrant rainforests are other key destinations in Kipahulu. You can go for a dip here but there is no access to the ocean.
Hiking is popular in both areas as is sky-watching (and more specifically star-watching), an ancient Hawaiian tradition encouraged in the park with various summer sky-watching programs.

The Park preserves the outstanding volcanic landscape of the upper slopes of Haleakala on the island of Maui and protects the unique and fragile ecosystems of Kipahulu Valley, the scenic pools along Oheo Gulch, and many rare and endangered species. Haleakala, originally part of Hawaii National Park, was redesignated as a separate entity in July 1961. Haleakala National Park was designated an International Biosphere Reserve in 1980. Of its 30,183 acres, 24,719 acres are designated wilderness.