If you’re seeking a hike that feels like stepping onto another planet, look no further than the Sliding Sands Trail in Haleakala National Park in Maui. The landscape is super unreal, and it makes you feel like you are on Mars. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about the sliding sands trail, a stunning hike that takes you below the rim of the world’s largest dormant volcano.
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About Sliding Sands Trail
| Distance | 11.0 miles |
| Elevation Gain | 2,795 feet |
| Type | Out-and-back |
| Difficulty | Challenging |
The full Sliding Sands Trail descends into the Haleakala Crater and can be quite long. Here’s a breakdown:
- Full Hike: The total round trip to the bottom of the crater and back is approximately 11 miles.
- Time: This can take anywhere from 6 to 8 hours, depending on your pace and how many stops you make.
- Difficulty: This is considered a strenuous hike due to the elevation gain/loss, loose terrain, and length.
We did not have the time to do the entire hike, so we just hiked down 2 miles and then turned around. We still got to see the insane views and the unique terrain without committing to the full descent. There are several shorter hikes that branch off of the sliding sands trail that allow for amazing views.
Fun Fact: This trail is called the Sliding Sands Trail because, according to a ranger I spoke to, you slide back one step for every two you take.
Where is Sliding Sands Trail
The Sliding Sands Trail is located within Haleakala National Park, specifically in the summit district. You’ll drive up to the Haleakala Visitor Center (at about 9,740 feet!) to access the trailhead. The drive alone is an adventure, winding through dramatic landscapes as you ascend.
Entrance Fees: You can expect $30 per vehicle but if you plan on visiting more than one park this year we suggest you go ahead and purchase the America the Beautiful Pass (which can be found at the entrance gates to most national parks). This pass gets you into all National Parks, Forests, Monuments, and more including 2,000 sites for free after a one time $79 fee.
When to Hike the Sliding Sands Trail
Honestly, you can’t really go wrong visiting Haleakalā any time of year. Winter’s the big draw, with those nice, easy 80-degree days. Summer, especially in July, August, and September, can get a little toasty, with temperatures in the high 80s, low 90s. And spring and fall? They’re great too, just maybe pack a raincoat, just in case.
One lesson we learned firsthand: Haleakalā’s summit, towering at 10,000 feet, plays by its own rules when it comes to clouds. We saw it all on our Sliding Sands hike – from delicate cloud accents to a complete cloud immersion. It’s impossible to predict when the summit will be clear, despite checking the forecast. So, go with an open mind. If you encounter clouds, embrace the ethereal atmosphere; it’s a wild and beautiful part of the adventure.
What to Wear/Bring
This hike is unique because of the drastic temperature changes. At high altitude, even in sunny Hawaii, it can be surprisingly cold, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Here’s a packing checklist:
- Layers: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a fleece or light insulated jacket, and pack a windproof/waterproof outer layer. >> cute thermal, >>light down jacket
- Sturdy Hiking Boots: The terrain is loose and rocky, so ankle support is crucial.>>> Sturdy hiking boots
- Sun Protection: Even though it’s cold, the sun is intense. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. >>>spf 60 sunscreen
- Hiking Poles: These will save your knees, especially on the descent.
- Plenty of Water: Bring more water than you think you’ll need. The dry, high-altitude air will dehydrate you quickly. >>>Nalgene water bottle
- Snacks/Lunch: Pack energy-boosting snacks and a lunch to enjoy amidst the incredible scenery. Go to Costco and grab as much snacks as you want.
Tips for Hiking Sliding Sands Trail
- A permit is mandatory for park entry between 3 AM and 7 AM, even if you’re not aiming for sunrise. To avoid the permit hassle and crowds, aim to arrive around 7 AM for a less busy trail.
- Bring lots of water! Hydration is key! Pack far more water than you anticipate; the sun, elevation, and sandy terrain will deplete your reserves quickly. We recommend reusable water bottles for both your wallet and the planet
- Consider watching the sunset at Haleakala. I’d argue that sunset at Haleakalā offers a superior experience to sunrise. You avoid the early wake-up and the permit, giving you greater flexibility with your schedule, especially when dealing with unpredictable weather. We planned our hike to end near sunset, it was a 10/10 experience! We got to hike and explore the park and then we were able to finish our hike with a sunset
