Haleakala Sunrise & Bike Ride
Published On: Nov 21, 2006

A great way to spend the day in Maui is on Mt. Haleakala. Towering over 10,000 feet high, this dormant volcano offers an action-packed day of excitement, along with some incredible sights. Two of the most memorable experiences include watching the sunrise, followed by a 39 mile ride down the mountainside that passes through four different climate zones. Here's a glimpse of what this magnificent venture is all about.

Rise & Shine
At around two o'clock in the morning, you'll get a wake up call from the tour guide. Rising at this hour is probably the toughest part of the whole trip, but you'll realize once you get there that its well worth it. One thing to keep in mind too is that you're going to the top of a mountain, and it gets chilly up there at the summit. Be sure to bring something warm, perhaps in a backpack because it'll get hotter as the day goes on.

Once you get to the top and that gargantuan orange sun peeks above the horizon - WOW!

Bike Ride Down the Mountainside
After the dawn of day emerges and you've gotten plenty of pictures and memories that will last a lifetime, its time for a 39 mile bike ride down to the bottom. This is no ordinary 39 mile venture. You coast the whole way down and the sights are breathtaking. The ride is suitable for bikers of all levels, so there's a mix of anyone from family's on vacation to honeymooners to retirees looking for something adventurous.

Along the way, the varying landscape embellishes mountains, waterfalls and profound arboreal splendors. Keep your eyes peeled for the Silversword plant. This rare and fascinating plant is endemic only to Haleakala's unique climate. It has silvery-solid "tentacles" and blooms with small red flowers near the end of its life cycle.

With about ten miles to go, the tour stops and everyone has breakfast. After you grab tasty grub, the journey continues and this is where you encounter quaint little towns, old sugar cane mills and the magnificent sea.

As one of Maui's most popular attractions - the Haleakala sunrise and bike ride adventure is truly a remarkable experience.

Print This Page