Place · 0.1 mi away
Overview
A short hop with a big payoff. Pā Kaʻoao is a small cinder cone right beside the Haleakalā Visitor Center that delivers crater-spanning panoramas after a brief climb. Expect roughly 0.4 miles round-trip and about 100 feet of gain on a rocky, gravel path at nearly 10,000 feet—so take it slow if you’re feeling the altitude.
Why it’s special
From the top, you get a commanding look into the colorful crater and the summit area, often above a sea of clouds. It’s a superb alternative to the busier summit overlook and an easy add-on if you’re already parked at the visitor center.
The short hike
The trail starts by the visitor center lot and winds up the cone via switchbacks. It’s only a 5–10 minute climb but footing can be loose in spots. Bring real shoes and expect wind.
What you’ll see
- Panoramic crater views and vivid cinder colors, with distant island and observatory glimpses on clear days.
- Sunrise and sunset are standout here—many mornings the cone sits above a cloud deck, and evenings often glow after most people leave.
Culture, wildlife, and fragile features
There are archaeological features at the top, including a historic rock shelter—look, don’t touch. Stay on the path and don’t move rocks; you can damage sensitive soils, animal homes, and the roots of iconic Haleakalā silversword plants. Endemic wildlife lives up here, and you may encounter nēnē in the area.
Practicalities
You’ll find parking and restrooms at the visitor center right next to the trailhead. There’s no food, water, or store up here—come prepared. High winds and fast-moving clouds are common; views can vanish and temps can hover near freezing even in summer.
Best time to visit
- Sunrise: Spectacular, but you must have a reservation to enter the park between 3–7 am. Without one, plan to arrive after 7 am.
- Sunset: Gorgeous light with fewer people than sunrise; linger a bit after the sun drops for the best color.
- Midday: Harsher light and more traffic; still worthwhile on a clear day.
Pair it with
The Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trail starts from the same lot if you want a longer taste of the crater after your White Hill warm-up.
Pros
- Huge sunrise/sunset views for a tiny effort
- Steps from the visitor center and parking
- Often calmer and less crowded than the main summit overlook
Cons
- Cold, windy, high elevation can make it feel tougher than it looks
- Sunrise access requires a 3–7 am reservation
- Clouds can wipe out views without warning
Tips
- If you want sunrise here, secure a reservation for 3–7 am entry.
- Dress for winter conditions—windproof layers, hat, and gloves make it enjoyable.
- Bring a headlamp for pre-dawn; the rocky, gravel path is uneven.
- Stay on trail and don’t move rocks to protect silverswords and cultural sites.
- No food or water at the summit—pack your own and download offline maps.
