Can you drive to haleakala summit

If you're a competent cyclist and biking down Haleakala appeals to you, be sure to check out available tours here low-price guarantee. We saw lots of police officers out on the road, and there was no shortage of speeders to keep them busy writing tickets. The main ticketing hot spot seemed to be the stretch of Haleakala Highway between the Hana Highway and Makawao. However, we also saw someone getting pulled over by the park rangers across from the visitor center.

Keep a close watch on your speed, and you'll be just fine! Altitude sickness is not likely to affect you on a casual drive to the summit and back. However, if you're planning on spending a longer time up there, ex. Symptoms to watch out for: dizziness, nausea, and headache. If you notice any of these, it may be due to the altitude.

If so, the way to fix it is to head for a lower altitude, and drink some water. If symptoms don't resolve, then get checked out by a doctor. Many people ask this question, and in case you're one of them, I'd like to reassure you.

Driving at the lower elevations is no more dangerous than any other major highway, with very good visibility and wide open spaces all around.

The higher elevations sometimes pose some challenges see above , but if you're careful, you'll stay safe! The only other thing that you might run into is ice on the roads IF you head to the summit during freezing temperatures. If this happens, just drive very slowly and take your time. Luckily, if you head up there during daylight hours, this is unlikely to affect you.

Layers are great - you can peel off the jackets and sweatshirts if you get too warm! You should bring along warm clothes for the summit, since temperatures will be quite a bit cooler up there compared to sea level.

Daily highs can vary anywhere from 50 - 65F 10 - 18C. One rule of thumb is to assume it will be about 32F 13C cooler at the summit compared to down at sea level - but keep in mind that wind and damp weather up there tend to accentuate the cold.

What should you wear? I usually start off my day in shorts and a t-shirt. At the visitor's center, I'll duck into the restroom to change into jeans, plus put on a fleece jacket for the rest of the journey.

If you go to the summit for the sunrise, then dress even warmer since temperatures can dip below freezing at that time of day. It's a 37 mile drive from sea level to the foot summit. It's the world's highest elevation gain in the shortest distance. On the drive to the summit, you'll pass through just as many ecosystems as you would if you drove from Mexico to Canada. Top 10 Things to Do in Maui.

Snorkeling Trips. Sunset Cruises. Did you find my site helpful? Please spread the word and share it with others! Barefoot Tours. How to Get a Deal on Maui Airfare. All rights reserved worldwide. Click here to read our privacy policy and disclaimer. Follow this for about 11 miles until you reach the volcano summit. Costs On Crater Road, at approximately feet elevation, you'll see the park entrance booth.

Enjoy this page? Explore This Park. Info Alerts Maps Calendar Reserve. Alerts In Effect Dismiss. Dismiss View all alerts. Frequently Asked Questions. Park operations continue to adapt to changing conditions and access is restored in a phased approach.

Current conditions are updated on the park website. How long will it take me to get to the park? Drive times vary depending on traffic and weather conditions. How do I watch sunrise or sunset from the summit? Sunrise viewing requires a permit. We have guidance on how to obtain a permit and a FAQ page dedicated to sunrise and sunset questions. When is the park open? The park does not close unless there is extreme, hazardous weather. The park posts updates with current alerts and conditions for any such closures.

Check current conditions before planning any park activities. Be advised: a sunrise reservation is required to enter the Summit District between the hours of am and am. Can I ride my bicycle in the park? Yes, bicycling is permitted.