Outdoor
Hiking
Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala)
Hike into a volcanic crater through a Mars-like landscape of cinder cones
Ages
8–18+
Cost
Paid
Duration
~4hrs
Difficulty
Moderate
Setting
Outdoor
A surreal hike into the crater of Haleakala volcano through a landscape of red, orange, and grey cinder cones that looks like the surface of Mars. The trail starts at the summit visitor center at 10023 feet and descends into the crater on soft volcanic sand. Even hiking the first mile in and back out provides incredible scenery. The full trail is long and the altitude makes exertion harder so start slowly. Silversword plants, found nowhere else on Earth, grow along the trail. This is a genuinely otherworldly experience.
Pricing
$30/vehicle national park entry fee (verify)
Common Questions
- How much does Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala) cost?
- Admission to Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala) is paid. $30/vehicle national park entry fee (verify)
- What ages is Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala) good for?
- Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala) is best for kids ages 8 to 18+.
- Is Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala) stroller friendly?
- No, Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala) is not considered stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala)?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala).
- How hard is Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala)?
- The difficulty level is moderate. Plan for about 4 hours.
- Is Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala) free?
- No, Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala) costs paid.
- What should I bring to Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala)?
- Warm layers, lots of water, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, hat, snacks
- How long does Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala) take?
- Most families spend about 4 hours at Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala).
- When is the best time to visit Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala)?
- Morning for clearest views. Bring layers for high elevation.
- Is there parking at Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakala)?
- Summit parking lot at the visitor center
Plan Your Visit
Haleakala Crater Rd, Kula, HI 96790