Amazing hike! The initial descent is very easy with otherworldly surroundings. Loved how the vegetation gradually got thicker and we ended somewhere so different. The final ascent did have me a bit out of breath! But definitely doable. We did the 11 miles in about 4.5 hours with minimal breaks, easily hitching back a ride to the summit with the sunset crowd. Definitely recommend!

The Sliding Sands Trail (Keonehe‘ehe‘e Trail) is a well-known hiking route here, renowned for its spectacular crater views and otherworldly landscapes. Beginning near Haleakalā’s summit (at 10,023 feet), the trail descends into the crater, reaching depths of 2,800 feet. An overnight permit is required to go all the way to the bottom. Along the way, the volcanic terrain feels like stepping onto an alien planet, with lava flows, silversword plants resembling cacti, and breathtaking seas of clouds. It’s awe-inspiring! To our surprise, our little one walked the entire trail with us, chatting and laughing along the way! 👍 Looks like we, the adults, are the ones who need to work on our fitness! 😅

6 hours from the top to Pele’s paint pot. Difficult hike back up, much worse than coming down. Chilly.

Views for days, the trail is simple but lengthy. Bring a jacket and dress in layers. It can get very breezy.

Did sunrise at Haleakala, had breakfast and then went down the Sliding sands trail that eventually meets with the Halemau’u trail that ends/starts close to the hiker pick up area —- took a little over 6 hrs with some stops. Recommend good hiking shoes, plenty of sunscreen and something waterproof (the clouds brought rain in and we were drenched but luckily had extra clothes). SO WORTH IT!