Haleakala National Park

About Haleakala National Park

Haleakala is located on the island of Maui and was newly designated as an independent entity in July 1961 and declared an International Biosphere Reserve in 1980. The park protects endangered species and preserves the natural beauty of Haleakalae and its slopes, as well as the island's natural resources.

Over 24,719 hectares have been designated as wilderness, with a total area of 1,848,943 hectares.

The main airport is located in Kahului in central Maui, but flights to and from the island are common. Major airlines fly to the US mainland via Honolulu International Airport, Honolulu's main international airport, as well as other major cities.

Two sections of the park are accessible from Kahului, but not directly connected to the road. The summit area of Haleakala is accessible by road from the main park entrance on the north side of KahULui Road, follow the signs to the highway and park on top of a hill.

The Kipahulu area of the park is located at the eastern end of Maui, between Hana and Kaupo. This is the largest and most scenic part of Haleakala National Park and the only park in the state of Hawaii.

Kipahulu is the most scenic part of Haleakala National Park and the second largest park in the state of Hawaii. An extension of the road, Highway 31, leads from the dry side of the island to Kaupo and Ulupalakua on the dry side, the journey takes about 3-4 hours each way. It is only partly asphalted and can be dangerous and closed in stormy weather.

Public transportation to and from the park is public transportation from Kaupo and Ulupalakua to Kipahulu via the Kilauea Expressway and Mauna Kea Trail.