The Haleakala dormant shield volcano dominates most of southern Maui.

The last major eruption is thought to have happened in the 18th century.

It is part of the Haleakala National Park that encompasses also the rainforest area around Hana and the Ohe'o Gulch.

 

The main feature is the huge and colorful Haleakala Crater with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and cinder cones. There are two easy  trails that lead you in and out the crater. Be careful of the height though, at 3000 meter your breath runs out easily. On clear days you can even see the volcanoes of Hawaii island, some 80 km to the southeast.

 

Access to the summit is via the Haleakala Highway, starting in Kahului. With its many switchbacks and steep dropoffs this road is an attraction in itself. Watch out for the Nene, the indigenous goose.

 

The clear, dry and thin air attracts many stargazers. The Haleakala Observatory is located on one of the peaks.

 

We have visited this very scenic place several times, lastly in February 1995.