When planning a vacation to the beautiful islands of Hawai’i, there is so much to see and do. From the gorgeous scenery to the welcoming luaus, there’s something for everyone here in the Aloha State. Maui is one of the most visited of the Hawai’ian islands, boasting heavenly landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and a massive 10,000 foot active shield volcano that makes up 75% of the island of Maui – Haleakalā. You can’t say that you’ve visited Maui until you’ve seen the sunrise over Haleakalā, and one of the best ways to experience this magical encounter is on a guided bike tour. In this post, we’ll discuss one of our most popular Haleakalā bike tours and why so many people choose nighttime as the best time to bike Hawai’i’s islands.
Experience Haleakalā During Both the Night and Day
A Nighttime Ascent
Imagine starting your bike tour of Haleakalā in the early morning hours, at 2:45 a.m., while the world is still dark and sleeping. Now, that may seem a bit early, but it’s necessary to make it to the summit before the sun begins its glorious ascent around 5:30 a.m. On the way up to Haleakalā’s summit, the cool nighttime air will take your mind off of the climb as the tour guide gives background information on Haleakalā and the surrounding areas.
A Magical Sunrise
Once the summit is reached, for the next hour or so, you’ll be awe-struck as the sun’s light transforms Haleakalā’s landscape into what can only be described as a bit of paradise here on Earth, until full daylight emerges around 6:30-7 a.m.
A Descent Through Paradise
After taking in the jaw-dropping sunrise, it’s time for a spirited descent back down the mountain while the tour guide continues to show off Haleakalā’s natural beauty and wonders. Along the way, you’ll see amazing wildlife, sprawling agriculture, and mountainside towns. Make a stop in quaint Makawao for some food and shopping to pick up a few souvenirs from the trip.
Are You Ready for Nighttime Biking in Hawai’i?
A sunrise bike tour up the mountain terrain of Haleakalā is not for the faint of heart or those who are out of shape. The roads and paths to Haleakalā’s summit have an average gradient of 5-6%, meaning it requires some serious pedal pushing at times. The payback is being able to experience Haleakalā’s wonders up close and personal, which is well worth the effort. The trip back down can also be demanding. Riding in winding traffic with motor vehicles, often with no bike lanes or shoulders, is common along the ride. Only experienced bikers confident in their riding abilities should plan this Haleakalā bike tour.
Experience Hawai’i’s Night Time Beauty on a Guided Bike Tour
Be in the perfect position to watch the sun crown over Haleakalā’s summit when you book the Maui Haleakalā Sunrise Bike Tour with Mountain Riders. Our talented and knowledgeable tour guides will give you the inside scoop on Maui’s wildlife, geology, and history during this extensive part night/part day bike tour. Only for confident riders who can endure this all day ride, the Haleakalā sunrise bike tour is the ultimate way to visit Haleakalā and an experience that will never be forgotten.
Mountain Riders is Maui’s premier bike tour company, offering both guided and self-paced bike tours of gorgeous Haleakalā that help visitors immerse themselves in Hawai’i’s beauty and culture.