Kilauea crater is the largest crater in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island, Hawaii. © Lijuan Guo/Shutterstock
would slow its descent to make the day last longer. Even today, the top of Haleakala has about 15 minutes more sunlight than the rest of the island. More than 30,000 acres of public
land provide endless opportunity to ex- plore in this park. Hiking (guided or on your own), camping, and wildlife view- ing are all possibilities in this outdoor haven, although summit views tend to be the most sought-after experience. Te road to the summit begins near sea level and rises to above 10,000 feet in 38 miles, making it an extremely steep journey, full of switchbacks and climate changes. Take the road to the Puu Ulau- la overlook, which is the volcano’s high- est point and enjoy the expansive views
filled with rich brown and red hues. One thing you must not miss is the spectacular sunrise from the Haleakala Visitor Center, located a short distance before the summit overlook at 9,470 feet. It’s best to get here early to do some stargazing before watching the darkness fade and beautiful light and color transform the sky. Tis is truly an unforgettable experience and you will be happy you sacrificed some sleep to witness it. Remember to dress warmly, as this is not a typical shorts and flip- flops Maui climate. Temperatures usu- ally hover in the 40-degree range, with high winds. If waking up at 3 a.m. to make the trek up here is not appealing, you’ll be happy to know sunset view-
HAWAII
Custom, independent travel to various Hawaiian Islands, including helicopter tours of volcanoes, is available from Perillo Tours. Seven and 10 day two-island and three-island tours are offered. Accommodations include 5-star beachfront hotels, tours and many other amenities. Island visits include Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the “big island,” Hawaii.
(See
perillotours.com for details.)
ing also proves to be a stunning show. While at Haleakala, also make time
to explore the east rim rainforest valley of Kipahulu, which can be reached via the Hana Highway, 12 miles past the town of Hana. Take a short, easy half- mile loop hike along the Kuloa Point Trail (departs from the Visitor Center), which carries you toward the ocean, along peaceful pools and waterfalls and lush vegetation. Views of black lava cliffs against the deep blue ocean will confirm you are indeed in paradise. Be sure to keep an eye out for sea turtles, humpback whales (December-April), dolphins and seabirds. You may even want to stop for a swim at ‘Ohe’o (Sev- en Sacred Pools), a collection of beauti- ful pools fed by waterfalls. To truly appreciate the immensity of these volcanoes, opt for a birds-eye view aboard a helicopter. Helicopter tours are available for unprecedented views of Kilauea, Haleakala and Mau- na Loa. Soar above rainforests, roaring waterfalls and see the volcanic terrain from an incredible vantage point.
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