Haleakala Observatory in Haleakala National Park

Haleakala Observatory

Whether your an amateur with a telescope or a professional astronomer, the summit of Haleakala is one of the best places in the world to observe the heavens.

Plan Around Haleakala Observatory

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Haleakala Observatory Details

Whether your an amateur with a telescope or a professional astronomer, the summit of Haleakala is one of the best places in the world to observe the stars, planets, and other celestial bodies. Officially the Haleakala High Altitude Observatory Site, and colloquially known as "Science City," the Haleakala Observatory features a varieties of telescopes and other observational equipment at the mountain's 10,000-foot level. Alas, it is not open to the public.

Difficulty

Low

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Estimated time

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Nearby Parks Around Haleakala Observatory

Compare nearby parks around Haleakala Observatory when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

3.6 mi away

Haleakala

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Lassen Volcanic

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Yosemite

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2494.4 mi away

Crater Lake

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Nearby Points of Interest Around Haleakala Observatory

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Haleakala Observatory while the map context is still fresh.

0.3 mi away

Pu'u'ula'ula

Pu'u'ula'ula is the highest point on Haleakala -- in other words, the real "summit" of the volcano.

0.5 mi away

Keonehe'ehe'e Trailhead

The Keonehe'ehe'e Trailhead is adjacent to the Haleakala Visitor Center near the park summit and marks the beginning of the Keonehe'ehe'e (Sliding Sands) Trail.

0.6 mi away

Keonehe'ehe'e (Sliding Sands) Trail

The Keonehe'ehe'e Trail, better known by its English name, Sliding Sands, is one of the most spectacular hiking trails in Haleakala National Park.

0.6 mi away

Pa Ka'oao (White Hill) Trail

The Pa Ka'oao (White Hill) Trail is a quick 0.6-mile walk that rewards you with outstanding views.

0.7 mi away

Haleakala Visitor Center

The compact Haleakala Visitor Center is the ranger station located closest to the summit, at an elevation of 9,740 feet above sea level.