Visit the Summit of Spectacular Haleakaka!

Haleakala is the huge mountain that dominates the southeastern half of the island of Maui. Haleakala (pronounced “hah-lay-ah-kah-lah”), which means “house of the sun,” is the largest dormant volcano in the world. Rising 10,023 feet above sea level, the greater portion of this massive mountain lies below the ocean. If measured from the sea floor, Haleakala would rise to a height of nearly 30,000 feet.

You can drive to the summit of Haleakala yourself or enjoy a guided tour with any number of island tour companies. The view from the summit is awe-inspiring, as you stand above the clouds gazing over the vast volcanic crater with all of Maui at your feet.

Viewing the sunrise from the Haleakala summit is a moving and memorable experience, and many visitors make the drive up the mountain in the wee hours of the morning to experience it. However, if you aren’t a morning person, the summit of Haleakala offers a breathtaking experience at any time of day, as long as weather conditions are favorable. Haleakala National Park offers information on current weather and viewing conditions. Be sure you have packed a jacket or blanket, as the summit temperature can be 30 degrees cooler than the coast, and snow (yes, SNOW!) is a possibility in winter.