Trails:
In the summit area two trails lead into the Wilderness. Sliding Sands Trail starts at the Haleakala Visitor Center parking lot and descends 2,500 feet through a cinder desert to the valley floor in 4 miles. The return trip is difficult due to the steep grade, elevation, and reduced oxygen. Allow twice the time to hike out as it takes to hike in. Halemauu Trail begins at the 8'000 foot parking lot 3.5 miles above park headquarters. The first mile gradually descends through native shrubland to the valley rim. Two miles of switchbacks then descend 1,400 feet to the valley floor. Sliding Sands and Halemauu trails eventually join after about nine miles, and are also connected with short spur trails. Ask at park headquarters or Haleakala Visitor Center about alternatives for shorter hikes; even short walks offer spectacular views on clear days.
At Kipahulu, all trails start at the Ranger Station. Check at the station for current trail and swimming conditions. Be alert to water conditions as flash flooding may occur within minutes. Obey posted warning signs. The Kaloa Point Trail is an easy half mile loop towards the ocean along pools and waterfalls and back to the ranger station. Kaloa Point is a windy bluff overlooking Oheo Gulch. Crashing surf and views of the Island of Hawaii are a five minute walk from the Ranger Station. Enjoy a picnic on the grass next to the remnants of an ancient fishing shrine and house site. Explore a Lau Hala thatched building and envision an earlier time.
The Pipiwai Trail is a moderately difficult four mile (round trip) hike through the rain forest up to Waimoku Falls. The trail ends upstream, near the base of 400' Waimoku Falls. Take a picnic lunch, snack, insect repellant and water along on this three hour hike.
