Backcountry
The protected wilderness area of Haleakala National park covers 24,719 acres.
Plan Around Backcountry
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Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
Backcountry Details
The protected wilderness area of Haleakala National park covers 24,719 acres. There are opportunities for backcountry hiking as well as the chance to stay overnight at two wilderness campsites or one of three historic cabins. Overnight backcountry camping requires a permit, and cabins must be reserved in advance. Hikers can explore the volcanic environment of the summit or cloud forests dripping with red and green native ferns. Hikers may spot birds such as the nene and endemic honeycreeper in the lower, wetter parts of the wilderness area during the day, and seabirds can be heard (in season) at night. Hikers can access the Wilderness Area via two mountaintop trailheads: Halemau'u at 8,000 feet, and Keonehe'ehe'e (or Sliding Sands) near the summit at 9,740 feet. The trails merge eventually, and lead down the southeast side of the volcano to the relatively barren and unpopulated coast in the Kaupo district. Those who intend to explore the backcountry should check in at a visitor center before setting out and keep an eye on weather, which can be unpredictable.
Difficulty
Open
Distance
N/A
Estimated time
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Region
Learn About the Park
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Compare nearby parks around Backcountry when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
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