About
Length (round trip)2.2 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain400 ft up
Typical time1 hr 30 min
TrailheadHalemauu trailhead, mile 14.6
SurfaceRocky path along a cliff edge
Best seasonTemperatures generally start off cool in the morning and warm up in the afternoon all year. Winter is the rainy season in Hawaii, and there may be an increased chance for fog or storms in the after...
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityDue to the rocky, sometimes steep nature of this trail, it is unfortunately not accessible to wheelchairs. This trail enters remote sections of the parks wilderness, and help may not be readily avialable.
What you'll see ⛰️ Summit🌄 Big views

Hike to an overlook of both the Haleakala crater and the Koolau Gap along the ridge of an erosional valley. Halemauu Trail makes its way through native shrubland to the edge of the crater and several specatular scenci viewpoints along the way. At 1.1 miles (1.8 km) the ridge drops away on both sides for an impressive overlook into a lush valley and the volcanic crater. Turn around here for a 2.2 mile (3.6 km) roundtrip hike. The rocky trail is not extremely steep up to this point, but hikers should be careful of loose or slick rocks. On your way out there, be on the lookout for the endemic forest birds that frequent this native shrubland. For birding enthusiastists, the Bird Brochure helps identify some of the most common birds you might see on this hike. While birds can come and go, you'll probably have excellent luck in finding some of the native plant species. Common shrubs like the ohelo, pilo, and mamane line the first mile of this trail. For a complete guide, check out our Plant Brochure . The trail continues beyond the overlook and quickly loses elevation over a series of switchbacks that bring hikers to the crater floor. If undertaking a longer hike beyond this first mile of the trail, be sure to have snacks, water, rain gear, and sun protection. The return hike from the crater floor is strenuous and gains 1400 feet (430 m) of elevation in a few miles.

Tips
A moderate hour out and back, but the drop beyond the railing-free edge is serious. Cloud often pours through the Koolau Gap here in the afternoon, which is a sight in itself.
Location

Halemauu trailhead, mile 14.6

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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Trail data: USGS National Map / PAD-US, the National Park Service, state agencies, and © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Access and conditions change — check with the managing agency before you go.