Is Haleakala National Park Wheelchair Accessible?
As a lover of national parks and someone who’s on a mission to visit as many as possible, I had to visit Haleakala National Park during my trip to Maui. I had done some research ahead of time, but there wasn’t a lot of information available on just how accessible Haleakala National Park is. So, I’m writing this post to help you know what to expect if you decide to visit and to answer once and for all is Haleakala National Park wheelchair accessible?
Is Haleakala National Park Wheelchair Accessible?
In short, Haleakala National Park is considered partially accessible. Although, that is not to say that there won’t be some challenges in those spaces considered accessible. Here’s what you need to know.
The drive to the summit (Haleakala is a dormant volcano and the surrounding area) is curvy and winding. If you get motion sick, be prepared, and bring the appropriate remedies. There are several overlooks that you can pull off for scenic views on a clear day. All these overlooks have designated parking with handicap accessible spaces available.
Your first opportunity to see the ancient volcano is at the visitor’s center. Here there is a large parking lot with designated handicap accessible spaces. There are also accessible restrooms available.
The visitor center itself was small and closed during my visit due to COVID restrictions. To access the visitor center and restrooms requires navigating a steep paved pathway that leads to the two buildings. Manual wheelchair users will need assistance on this steep section. However, once you’ve gotten to the top, there is a small area that offers great views of the volcanic crater.
The other area that is considered to be accessible is the actual summit. A short drive from the visitor center will take you to another parking area (which also has accessible parking spots). You will again need to take a steep paved path to get to the lookout. The pavement was not in great shape when I visited, with many cracks and potholes in it. Manual wheelchair users will need assistance.
Unfortunately, the pathway does not lead all the way to the actual lookout. You will need to leave the path and roll over large gravel to get to where you can see the volcanic crater. The gravel was definitely challenging as a wheelchair user.
The Hosmer Grove picnic area is also considered accessible, but I personally didn’t visit this area to be able to comment on its accessibility.
Currently, there are no trails that are wheelchair accessible. Since the national park is made up of a dormant volcano and the surrounding area, the terrain is rocky, muddy and would be difficult to maneuver.
About Haleakala National Park
Called the wilderness of the gods by Hawaiians, the summit of this ancient volcano is considered to be a sacred place. In Hawaiian, Haleakala means “house of the sun” and got its name after the demigod Maui lassoed the sun to make the days last longer.
The park itself is huge and covers thousands of acres of land. The main part of the park consists of a dormant volcano (and is over a million years old) which contains various colors in the soil that take on different hues and vibrancy depending on how the sun hits them. It last erupted between 1480-1600 and could erupt again (although it’s currently dormant).
Interestingly, only about 5% of the volcano is visible and above water. When you combine both what is visible and what lies beneath the ocean, Haleakala is 28,000 feet tall, making it the third tallest mountain on earth.
Another section of the park is made up of lush, dense forests and waterfalls. Hiking trails are available throughout the park, but unfortunately, none of these trails are wheelchair accessible.
Things to Do in Haleakala National Park in a Wheelchair
1. Drive to the Summit
The drive to the summit will take you up a long, winding road and above the clouds. This scenic drive has accessible overlooks which will give you splendid views of the island on a clear day. Stopping at these overlooks is also a great way to allow your body to get acclimated to the change in elevation. The summit is over 10,000 feet.
2. Watch the Sunrise
This is probably the most popular time for visiting the park. So much so that reservations are required. The summit and visitors center are great areas to gather for this incredible experience.
3. Watch the Sunset
Sunset is another popular time to visit but doesn’t require reservations. Just make sure to allow yourself plenty of time to drive to the summit or visitor center so you can take in the views. Also note that there are no lights along the road, so after the sun goes down, it will be a very dark drive down the mountain. Take your time and watch for wildlife.
Sunrise in Haleakala National Park
Waking up at 3 a.m. so you can get to the summit to watch the sun slowly climb its way over the crater may not sound appealing if you’re not a morning person. However, this is a popular activity with many of the visitors to Haleakala National Park. Currently, a timed entry pass is required for this activity, so plan ahead and make sure to get your reservation early.
These reservations can be obtained through the national park’s website. If you aren’t lucky enough to snag tickets, consider joining a tour. Tours take care of everything you will need and even offer pickup from your hotel or cruise ship.
Sunset in Haleakala National Park
Sunset is another popular time to visit the park but doesn’t require reservations. If you still want to see Haleakala at its golden hour, but can’t stand waking up early, then this is a great option for you.
Just be aware that cloud cover may obstruct some of your views. The weather is constantly changing and can be unpredictable. Also, make sure you bring some warm clothes! Temperatures at the summit are significantly cooler than the rest of the island and when the sun sets, it gets even cooler. Bring a warm coat and layers so that you can still feel comfortable.
Getting to Haleakala National Park
If you have a rental car, then visiting Haleakala is easy. Just remember that the road is winding and there is quite a bit of an elevation change. Make sure to take your time, follow the speed limit, and make sure to stop at the scenic overlooks so that your body can acclimate to the change in elevation.
Having your own rental car will allow you all the time you want/need to visit this beautiful park.
The other option for getting to the park is to take a tour. There are several options ranging from sunrise, sunset and daytime tours depending on your desires and availability. Robert’s Hawaii offers accessible tours with lift equipped buses if you’d rather not drive the road to the summit yourself.
Tips for Visiting Haleakala National Park
👉🏻 Decide What Time You Want to Visit
Knowing when you want to visit will dictate whether reservations are needed and the type of clothing you will need. Temperatures will be cold both at sunrise and sunset.
👉🏻 Get Reservations Early
If you do plan to go for sunrise, make sure to get your reservations early. They will and do sell out fast. You don’t want to have your heart set on visiting during this time only to be disappointed if you can’t get tickets.
👉🏻 Book Any Tours in Advance
If you don’t want to brave the drive to the summit yourself, a tour is a good option. However, tours to Haleakala are popular and can also sell out in advance. As soon as you know what day you’d like to visit, book your tour so you won’t be disappointed.
👉🏻 Have Realistic Expectations
While this national park is beautiful and unique, accessibility is limited. Don’t expect to be able to do everything you want to without some challenges. This is also not a park that will allow you to explore it extensively. Keeping in mind some of the obstacles will help you to have realistic expectations so you can be prepared to problem-solve any potential obstacles.
👉🏻 Drink Plenty of Water
|Since the heights will be high, help prevent any possible risks of altitude sickness by staying hydrated. Even if you don’t plan on staying long, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Bring your own water in a reusable bottle and take sips often.
👉🏻 Take Your Time and Enjoy the Views
As I mentioned before, you will be driving to over 10,000 feet above sea level. Make use of the scenic overlooks to allow your body to adjust. When you’re at the top, allow yourself to be in the moment and take in all of the beauty that will be around you. You may need to move slower than usual and take more time to rest depending on how you respond to the elevation.
👉🏻 Pack Appropriate Clothing
The summit of Haleakala can be quite chilly. Furthermore, if you plan on going for sunrise or sunset, it can be downright cold. Make sure to bring warm clothes and layers to keep more comfortable.
For more ideas on what to bring for your trip to Maui, make sure to read my Hawaii Packing List post!
Final Thoughts on Accessibility at Haleakala National Park
While Haleakala is by no means the most accessible national park, I did enjoy my time here. There were challenges for sure, even in the areas considered to be accessible, but the scenery made up for it. I’m glad that I was able to check another national park off my bucket list. I hope you’ll enjoy your visit here as well.
