Haleakala is a Hawaiian word which, when roughly translated means, “house of the sun.” That should be all you need to know right there, right? Well no, not exactly.
You’re going to get your climb on.
Along the 37 mile drive up to Haleakala summit, you will navigate over thirty switchbacks to complete the climb from sea level to 10,000 feet. The amazing fact about such a steep climb (the quickest, most drastic in the world) is that you will encounter several “life” zones: alpine/Aeolian, subalpine/shrubland, rain forest, dry forest and a lowland/coastal zone. In order to encounter these life zones during a drive on the mainland, you would have to trek from Mexico to Canada!
It’s going to be windy. Then cold. But it could be hot. And rainy. But also sunny too.
If you haven’t already figured out what traversing all of those ecosystems means for your wardrobe, it means lots of layers, and preparing for rain and shine. The temperature can drop an average of 3 degrees per thousand feet that you climb towards the summit- so if it is 70 degrees on the main part of the island, it will be roughly 40 degrees on the summit of Haleakala. (The temperatures at the summit range between 20 and 40 degrees.) Layering on the sweaters, hats and jackets and possibly bringing comforter from your hotel room or condo are all fine ideas. (Just don’t tell them I told you to.) The weather at Haleakala summit is unpredictable so go prepared for all scenarios; sun, cold, wind, rain and yes, even snow. If you go to Haleakala without warm clothing, rain gear and sunscreen, you’re going to have a terrible time. There are few things more miserable than standing around in the freezing cold and wind waiting for something beautiful to happen – and as beautiful as the sunrise over Haleakala is, nothing is really that enjoyable if you are downright uncomfortable.
Fuel up.
There are no pop up restaurants, Starbucks, or vending machines at Haleakala summit, so packing a lunch and snacks is a great idea, especially if there are children involved. But don’t expect to spread out the checkered blanket and paper plates at the summit. It’s so windy up there, it’s actually easier to eat in the car. Which reminds me, leave with a full tank of gas to avoid being stranded- there are no gas stations at Haleakala summit. Lastly, if you aren’t prepared to deal with traffic, potential parking issues and crowds of people that can number almost 1000, then try going at sunset, which is equally as stunning.
Try not to lose your lunch.
Did I mention you should bring ginger, and probably dramamine? I’m not a doctor so I can’t prescribe medication, but if ever there was a trip that would induce car sickness, this is the one. As long as you can avoid hunger pangs and motion sickness, and are able to stay warm and hydrated – your experience at Haleakala summit should be nothing short of dreamy.
The drive up is intense.
I know I mentioned this already, but the switchbacks up the volcano are no joke. You are going to turn left and then right and then left and then right again and then left and right again, until you just don’t want to do it anymore, all the while trying to take in the scenery and not smash into other cars. Mentally prepare.
Is it worth it?
Is waking up long before the crack of dawn and piling everyone in the car to drive over an hour up winding switchbacks in the dark just to watch the sunrise over a dormant volcano worth it? Absofuckinglutely, but don’t take my word for it. Experience Haleakala for yourself.
*Blog written for a Maui travel related media company for the thirty-something traveller.