Haleakala Summit
While crowds are racing up the mountainside to see the notoriously famous sunrise (and, as quickly, depart) we suggest you take your time to leisurely drive up toward the summit, enjoy a day in the park, and stay to watch the more dramatic sunset. You might even linger after dark to stargaze. You can expect the drive, from Kahului to the summit, to take about one and a half hours.

Another summit option is wilderness hiking. For a day of hiking, you may wish to get up early. Hiking is strenuous at these high altitudes, so know your limits. Keep in mind that hiking out is often uphill and takes twice as long as a downhill hike into areas such as craters.

Even though the summit is cooler, bring sunscreen. Skin burns faster in high, thin atmosphere than at sea-level.

Coastal Kipahulu
Perhaps, you’ll prefer to visit the sea-level, Kipahulu area of the park, 10 miles beyond Hana. The drive will take approximately three hours from Kahului. Expect to be lured by scenic stops along the way.

A quick overview of the park’s two areas can be seen by visiting this calendar page: http://www.haleakala.national-park.com/cal.htm

For both areas, you’ll want to bring all food you’ll need, water, sunscreen and your camera. Fill your vehicle’s gas tank when you start out. Include layers of warm clothes (coats, if you have them) when you visit Haleakala’s summit. A bathing suit may come in handy in the freshwater pools of the Kipahulu area.

We recommend you visit Haleakala National Park’s website as you plan your trip to Haleakala. It is full of information, including daily activities, conditions and current temperatures.
http://www.nps.gov/hale/index.htm