Tips for Maui at High Altitudes

If your Maui vacation brings you outdoors for some hiking, camping or casual exploration of Haleakala's higher elevations, we have some tips on making your trip even better. Understanding and learning about your surroundings is the best thing you can do to ensure your trip is smooth, safe and fun. 

Newcomers to Maui sometimes assume that because our island is tropical, it is always warm. While temperatures hover blissfully between 75 and 85 degrees in most places at or near sea level, the magnificent slopes of Haleakala ascend to the cloud level, and have a completely different set of temperature averages. Whether you're planning on experiencing the awe-inspiring sun rise at Haleakala's summit, cabining at Polipoli, or camping at Hosmer's Grove, it's best to prepare for cold weather. Wear or bring warm clothes (even scarfs, gloves and warm hats) and thick sleeping bags. These regions range between 40 to 65 degrees, and can drop below freezing at night, with the addition of an unpredictable and biting windchill factor. 

The weather at Maui's high altitudes can change quickly between overcast, rainy and sunny. The air may be cool, but the sun is still surprisingly piercing. After all, Haleakala means, "house of the sun." Bring sunscreen to protect against sneaky sunburns.

Haleakala's peak is 10,023 feet above sea level, and boasts a fantastic view of Maui and neighboring islands from its summit on a clear day. Visitors truly feel on top of the world. If your activity plans include hiking in or around the Crater, keep in mind that the air is significantly thinner at that elevation and can make trails feel more strenuous. Remember to take a break if you're feeling dizzy. There's nothing wrong with stopping to "smell the roses" so to speak, and it may help you avoid the temporarily ill effects of altitude sickness. 

Be sure to stick to the trails. Wandering off trail can be dangerous. Not only can a person accidentally harm the ultra-rare endemic wildlife, but it's easy to become lost, and sheer cliffs and canyons make off-trail travel dangerous. Following trails is much safer and you get to experience a more direct route to Maui's most breathtaking views. 

Haleakala National Park and Polipoli State Park are both beautiful natural sanctuaries and since they are so remote, it's always a good idea to bring food and drinks along for these windy scenic drives and for any hiking or camping trips you're planning. Snack shops and grocery stores are between 45 minutes to an hour away from each location. Both parks are equipped with restroom facilities.

Hopefully this will help you plan your trip to Haleakala's loftier regions. Be safe, have fun, and enjoy the view! In the meantime, if you are still in search of Maui accommodations, feel free to peruse the links on our website to find lovely vacation homes and condos. We can assist you in finding the right Maui vacation rental to meet your needs. If you need help, you'll find our contact information at the bottom of the page. Mahalo!