The Skyline Trail is a difficult hike that begins from the summit of Haleakalā volcano and descends along its southwest flank. Although the trailhead is inside the National Park, most of this hike is on state land. The hike follows an old road that is now closed to vehicles, although the road is popular with mountain bikers. The main attraction is the namesake of the trail - feeling like you’re on the edge of the world above the clouds far below. The trail passes several colorful lava features and cinder cones before reaching the Kula Forest Reserve far below.

Trailhead: Drive to the end of Haleakalā Highway (Hwy. 378), and find the summit parking area at Puʻu ʻUlaʻula (Red Hill). This trailhead has no services, but has a wind shelter. Access to the park is restricted during the hours of 3am to 7am each day. There is now a permit lottery system for access to popular sunrise viewing. Even if you’re just hiking and not viewing sunrise, you still need a permit to access the park before 7am if you desire an early start. If you plan your drive to arrive at the park at 7am, you should sail right through with no wait. Drive carefully along the Haleakalā Highway. Expect to encounter cyclists, construction vehicles, and emergency vehicles along the narrow, winding road.

Weather

Gear: Wear sturdy boots and bring your raingear. Expect cold, windy weather. Bring lots of water - you dehydrate much more quickly at this altitude. The UV rays from the sun are also stronger. Don’t underestimate this very difficult hike in a high alpine wilderness.

Hike: The big danger of this hike is that is starts high and descends until you choose where to turn around. Ensure you leave enough energy to hike back from your chosen turn-around point. From parking at Puʻu ʻUlaʻula, carefully walk back down the road to the highway. Instead of the way you came, hike west toward a large complex of telescopes. Make a left at the gate of this facility (it’s clearly marked that you should keep out), pass a gate, and walk along a dirt road. After about a half mile, you’ll pass below another telescope and pass through another gate onto state land. The views of the Big Island are amazing on a clear day with Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa apparent above the clouds. Stay on the road and pass by a few deep cinder cones. On a clear day, you should be able to see West Maui. The trail descends to Pu’u Kanahau. Stay on the trail and don’t climb this cinder cone. The trail eventually traces the northern side of the cinder cone before descending into the Kula Forest Reserve. It’s possible to keep going, but this is a good spot to turn around for a long dayhike. Retrace your steps back to the summit.