By More Than Just Parks

5 Surreal moments on the Haleakala Crater Hike

Hawaii

HALEAKALA CRATER TRAIL STATS

11 Miles

2,500' elevation change

ABOUT HALEAKALA CRATER

Haleakala Crater is a large shield volcanic crater near the summit of East Maui. This erosion-sculpted basin features numerous cinder cones. The high altitude hike starts at nearly 9,700 feet and drops 2,500 feet before once again rising 1,000 feet at the Halemau'u trailhead.

Legendary ohi'a Trees

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You might have heard about the Curse of Pele, but this is a different tale. Pele fell in love with a man who was in love with someone else. Enraged, Pele turned the man into a gnarled tree and the woman into the flowering leaves. In fact, legend has it that someone shocking happens if you pick these flowers.

The "bottomless" pit

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It's a "bottomless" pit once said to lead to the sea, 65 feet deep, and an example of sibling rivalry all wrapped up into one. Legend has it that Pele's sister Kamakokahai, used this access point to try to put out Pele's fires.

pele's paint pot

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Pele's Paint Pot brings color to its own volcanic crater surrounded by colorful mineral deposits from ancient lava flows. The reds, oranges, greens, and yellows contrast starkly against the dark lava rock, reminiscent of a painter's vibrant palette.

SILVER SWORD LOOP

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The endemic silversword flowering plant endemic grows on volcanic slopes and craters. Identified by its dense rosette of silvery sword-shaped leaves and towering flower stalk covered in hundreds of maroon blossoms, the silversword lives up to 90 years before flowering just once.

SUMMIT SUNRISE

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The most epic experience near Haleakala Crater is the summit sunrise, which is by permit only and requires an early but worthy wake-up call. Sunsets aren't too shabby, either.

THE SURREAL HALEAKALA CRATER HIKE ON MAUI

The trail isn't for the faint of heart or those who don't like heights, but if you're ready to tackle the "House of the Sun," the complete trail guide is linked below.