Watch the sunrise from the Haleakala summit

Kula, Maui

Maui is a land of great contrasts of weather, landscape, and topography. On any given day you can have multiple options for exploring our island paradise, but in terms of peak experiences, nothing compares to reaching the summit of 10,023 foot tall Mount Haleakala. It is rare that you can drive from sea level to the summit of such a mountain, but the development of scientific observatories and the National Park stewardship of the area have made for paved and passible roadways the entire distance of 40 miles. At a Glance: Highlights: Infinite views of multiple islands light up with the dawn as you have a peak experience watching sunrise from the summit of a 10,023 foot mountain. The morning glow on the crater rocks and surrounding rim makes for the feeling of being on Mars. After sunrise go warm up on a tropical beach in style. Activity Level: Moderate to strenuous due to thin air and altitude. Preparations: Warm blankets and layered clothing, a camera, beverages and snacks. Costs: $10 per vehicle entry fee, good for 7 days entry into the park. The literal translation of Haleakala is "house of the sun". This name refers to the ancient myth of the god Maui lassoing the sun as it rose above the summit, in doing so Maui insured through agreement that the sun would rise high enough in the sky daily for the Hawaiians to achieve there daily survival needs. This fascination with sunrise persists to this day, and believe it or not, one of the busiest times of day is the dawn. Hundreds of people drive to the summit for the sunrise experience daily. It is truly an epic scene, with 40 miles of visibility on a clear day you will see a full 360 panoramic progression of the dawns light and eventually the rise of the golden sun out of the distant horizon. However, considerable preparation and a very early wake up are needed to make the sunrise a pleasurable experience. Here are some tips before you make the journey. Be prepared for the cold temperatures: As volcanic mountains rising above the sea, the Hawaiian Islands possess mountain peaks far removed from the warmth and comfort of the tropical beach version of paradise. It is said that every 1000 feet of elevation that you gain in altitude, the temperature drops 3 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit. At 10,023 feet tall at its summit, we actually get frost and snow conditions at the summit during the winter. If you come unprepared for this, you will definitely regret not doing so. Even in the summer months, the summit predawn temperature can be in the 40 F. degree range making for shock to those showing up in shorts and a t-shirt. Packing multiple sweatshirts, hoodies, coats, socks, shoes, and long pants are best. If you can layer up properly, you can enjoy the sunrise and even stay for the first few hours of reduced crowds in the park. It is often predictable that within 30 minutes of sunrise the masses of people that have not prepared will rapidly descend th…