Red Hill, Haleakala — Local services in Maui

Exploring Haleakala is basically the ultimate 5-Star adventure. You drive up a 10,000 foot mountain and are treated to one of the most spectacular views Maui has to offer. I don't often give 5 star ratings, but this takes the cake. Here is my reason why:

+1 Star: Spectacular view. Once you reach the top you won't want to come down. At the top of Haleakala you are treated to a view of the clouds and miles of scenery. Another cool view is of the NASA observatory at the top of the mountain. I recommend going in the morning to watch the sunrise or evening for the sunset. Bring a camera for some great shots!

+1 Star: Amazing drive. This is probably one of the most epic drives I have ever made. Going up you go through the clouds and eventually go above them. It's kind of surreal. The roads are kind of windy so be careful making tight turns/watch your speed. Be careful if you are sensitive t altitude - I got a little light headed while driving up. If this happens to you pull over, take a break and some deep breathes.

+1 Star: Hikes. This place has so many trails and they all look awesome + offer more amazing scenery. Me and my wife did a short hike, but there are some that go through the crater - those are very long hikes. If you decide to go on a long hike be well prepared.

+1 Star: Information Centres. Info centres are located midway and at the top of the mountain. Both have washrooms (thank god). It's good to check out the bits of information they have on the history of the mountain and what kind of life/plants live on it. Saw some truely unusual plants even at 10,000 feet called Silverswords.

+1 Star: Life-changing. When I think about Hawaii I think about this location. Watching a sunset 10,000 feet above sea level is truly amazing.

Overall: I recommend to everyone who goes to this island to visit this location! I would definitely go back in a heart beat. Get a rental car (convertible if possible). Be well prepared - bring food and lots of water as well as sunscreen. Go for the...

Amazing veiws at the summit; looking out above the clouds is breathtaking! You can drive directly to the summit but be prepared to pay the $25 gate fee. If you are interested in seeing the sunrise you need to make a reservation well in advance; the park won't allow you entrance prior to 7:00 am unless you have a reservation. After 7:00 AM the park is open to all. There is a strenuous hike to view one of the craters, which I highly recommend if you are in decent shape, but be aware that the trails are very rustic and can be confusing. The scenery on this part of the volcano is unreal; you feel like you're on another planet! There is also an 11 mile hike down from the summit that I really wanted to do but wasn't able to complete because we ended up getting a late start and got lost a few too many times. It's best to park at the lower lot and either hitch hike up to the summit, or bring 2 cars and leave 1 at the lower lot so you have a car when you complete the hike. Be prepared with lots of water, and snacks for the trail. Sturdy shoes are also recommend. I think the only drawback to this park is that the trails aren't well marked at all, and the rangers could do a better job at explaining the trails as well. But even with the drawbacks, I still highly...

Red Hill, located at the summit of Haleakalā in Maui, Hawaii, offers one of the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring experiences on the island. As the highest point on Maui at over 10,000 feet above sea level, the views from Red Hill are nothing short of spectacular. On a clear day, you can see the vast crater of the Haleakalā volcano, with its striking red and black lava rock landscape, along with sweeping views of Maui’s coastline and even neighboring islands.

The sunrise and sunset views from Red Hill are particularly famous, with the sky often transforming into a palette of vibrant colors that reflect off the clouds and crater below. It’s a peaceful and surreal experience, making the early morning trek to catch the sunrise or staying for the sunset completely worth it. The area is well-maintained with visitor facilities, but it still feels like a remote and untouched natural wonder.

Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or just seeking an unforgettable view, Red Hill at Haleakalā is a must-visit destination when in Maui. It’s the perfect spot to appreciate the raw beauty and vastness of the...