Haleakala National Park
Posted in North America | March 14, 2010 | Comment NowHaleakala national park stretches across east Maui. The park is home Haleakala Crater, which is an active volcano that not does erupt presently. It is also the highest peak in Maui. The magnificent slopes of Haleakala rise more than 10,000 feet above sea level. They can be seen from any point in the island.
The word Haleakala means ‘house of the sun’ in Hawaiian. According to legend, the demigod Maui lassoed the sun from the summit to slowdown the journey of the sun across the skies.
Haleakala National Park comprises an unbelievable range of natural environments. Reaching the peaks of Haleakala Crater is a popular tourist activity. You also get the opportunity to walk above the clouds. Hiking across the diverse landscapes, deserts, and wilderness is also popular with the tourists. As you near the coast, you can witness lush tropical regions replete with waterfalls and streams.
The sunrise at Haleakala Crater draws many visitors. Many locals wake up early for this spectacle. Watching the sunrise from the Haleakala summit is a rejuvenating experience. The sunsets of the region are equally fabulous with bright, starry nights.
Haleakala can be explored at a leisurely pace by car, bike, or foot. The road to Haleakala national park is long and winding and needs effort on your part. There are several hiking trails that offer scenic beauties and areas of solitude. Guided hikes give you the guidance and insight of an expert. The park is the most popular destination at Maui.
At 7000 feet above sea level, the Park Headquarters Visitor Center 
comprises the first stop. Sunrise is best when viewed from the Haleakala Visitor Center. Kipahulu Visitor Center can be accessed by passing through Hana. The wilderness is home to wonderful pools of Oheo Gulch.
Haleakala is a humungous shield volcano that rises up to 10,023 feet above sea level. The national park comprises area from the summit to the sea. It also contains subalpine scrublands, forests dry in nature, and rainforests. The pools of Oheo Gulch are equally fascinating.
The high altitudes of the region give spectacular views. Three Hawaiian Islands are seen on clear days from Haleakala. Both sunrise and sunset captivate the observer. Stargazing is a favorite activity with many programs offered in summer.
Along the summit, many trails are present. Kipahulu area, which includes Sliding Sands and Pipiwai Trail, has some of the best trails. Hiking activities may last between half an hour and three days. Exploring the area through horseback is common.
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