Is the Drive Up Haleakalā National Park Worth It?

If you're visiting Maui, you might wonder if the long, winding drive up Haleakalā National Park is truly worth it. Let me assure you—it absolutely is. And as someone who’s terrified of heights, if I’m saying it’s worth it, you know it has to be! Please note: The photos below do not do justice for what this place looks like. It's more incredible than what the pictures show.

Before I dive into the driving part of the visit, you may want to consider checking out this Haleakala Sunrise Spectacular: Legendary Views + Local Breakfast tour via Viator that my friend recommended to me. She said it was the best tour she's ever done. Unfortunately, it didn't fit in our schedule, so we opted for the drive.

The Drive Up to Haleakalā: A Journey Through the Clouds

The road to the summit of Haleakalā is an adventure in itself. With over 30 switchbacks and steep elevation gains, it takes you from sea level to more than 10,000 feet in just a couple of hours. Along the way, the landscape shifts dramatically—from lush greenery to a stark, almost lunar-like terrain (I felt like I was in space). As you climb, the views stretch out across the island, and on clear days, you can even see neighboring islands in the distance.

Driving up Haleakalā National Park

The Summit: Stunning Views and Space Exploration

Reaching the top feels like stepping onto another planet. The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the crater below, and even the Big Island on a clear day. While the journey wasn't easy for someone like me who is scared of heights, I was so thankful I fought through it. I even looked out the windows for some of the ride! Haha.

Holding my Haleakalā National Park certificate saying I survived the 37-mile journey to the top

Haleakalā National Park certificate

View of Haleakalā National Park from the top

The summit is also home to several world-class observatories, including those operated by the University of Hawaiʻi’s Institute for Astronomy, the U.S. Air Force, and international research groups. Scientists use these telescopes to study space, track satellites, and even observe the sun with the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope, the largest solar telescope in the world. I love learning about space, so this area was particularly interesting to me. I wish we were allowed to go inside to explore and see all the work they do!

The observatories at Haleakalā National Park

What to Expect: Elevation, Wildlife, and Vegetation

At over 10,000 feet, the air is thinner, and you might find yourself short of breath. I felt it a bit. Walking slowly and staying hydrated can help ease the effects of the altitude, so make sure you bring water with you. The ecosystem here is unlike anywhere else, with silversword plants that grow only on Haleakalā and rare wildlife like the nene (Hawaiian goose), Hawaii’s state bird. Please be respectful of the plants and the landscape, as they are unique to the area and should not be disturbed.

Walking on one of the trails before the summit of Haleakalā National Park

Plants at Haleakalā National Park

Stunning view at Haleakalā National Park

Additionally, you can find accessible restrooms in the visitors center in the Kalahaku Overlook area and at the Hosmer Grove picnic area. If you're looking to eat around this area, I heard Kula Lodge was the place to go with 180 degree views of Maui! You can view more places to eat here. Personally, we packed some snacks so we didn't end up stopping anywhere. If we go back, I definitely would like to check out those places.

Is It Worth It?

Between the mesmerizing ocean views, the unique ecosystem, and the thrill of standing at Hawaii’s highest point, the answer is a resounding yes. Just be prepared for the cold—temperatures can drop significantly at the summit, even in summer! We went in December and I was pretty comfortable in my outfit of shorts and a sweatshirt, for what it is worth!

Have you driven up Haleakalā National Park? Share your experience in the comments!

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