Sliding Sands Trailhead via Halemauu Trail and Sliding Sands Trail(edit)

Overview

This is a difficult one way trail. You may begin at the summit or at Leleiwi Overlook Trailhead. Keep in mind the 3,000’ elevation gain/loss when you make your decision. Starting at the summit is a more popular way to hike.

There is a hitchhiker pickup area near Leleiwi Overlook parking lot where you can easily hitch a ride back up to the summit to return to your vehicle.

This hike treks through a variety of ecosystems and landscapes through the Wilderness Area at Haleakala National Park on Maui Island in Hawaii. From dry desert terrain dotted with towering cinder cones to cloudforests alive with colorful flora and fauna, this place is unlike any other on earth.
Look for the rare silverswords flowering.

This hike is completely exposed. Have plenty of water, snacks, foul weather gear, and lights if you begin after noon. Only bathrooms are at the trailhead.