Activities For Dogs In Haleakala National Park
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Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Introduction
Subtropical rainforests, volcanic landscapes and hundreds of rare species of animals are what you will find at Haleakala National Park. Sounds like a place you need to visit, doesn't it? However, you may be wondering if this trip would be doable with your dog in tow. The answer is yes! Your dog can definitely join you in this great park and there is plenty for you and your dog to see and do while visiting Haleakala.
Hiking Fun
Popular
0 Votes
Sunny Day
Free
Easy
1 - 2 hrs
Items needed
Water
Collar
Leash
Waste Bags
Activity description
Like most national parks, dogs are not permitted to walk on the trails inside Haleakala. However, they are allowed on roadways and paved paths which is all that you and your pup need! Your dog does need to stay on the leash at all times as you venture around the park but as you walk, you will be able to take in some great, breathtaking views. Pick one of these hikes to suit you and your pup best in terms of length and difficulty. Be sure to bring fresh water for your pup as well - the Hawaiian climate can be hot!
Step
1
Kalahaku Overlook
This spot has fantastic views of Hawaii and you can see for miles from the top of this mountain. The roadway is paved which means you can bring your pup with you while you venture to this peak, walk down a few stairs and take in the breathtaking sites. Wander around the area with your dog, hiking as far as you'd like.
Step
2
Leleiwi Overlook
There are a few short, paved trails in this area that will grant you and your pup great views and a park approved place for your dog. You will see steep cliffs and cinder cones along with a large number of wild animals in their natural habitat. Keep your pal on the leash and do not disturb any animals you may see as this area is very fragile.
Step
3
Visitors center
While it may not sound like an appealing walk, the visitors center is definitely a place to head with your dog. There is a wide array of paved paths you can choose from that all begin at the visitors center. The park rangers will also be able to help you choose which paths are ideal for you and your dog on that specific day.
Camping
Popular
0 Votes
Sunny Day
Cheap
Normal
24 hrs
Items needed
Water
Dog Food
Blankets
Sleeping Bags
Tent
Activity description
Camping with your dog has to be one of the most exciting and adventurous things you can do with your pup. Luckily, you can go camping with your dog at Haleakala National Park! While some of the backcountry campgrounds are off limits, you and your dog can visit the Kipahulu Campground where you can drive your car right to your site and set up for the night. While the daytime temps are in the mid 50's and 60's, it can drop below freezing at night so be prepared for the cold! Campsites are relatively cheap so all you'll need to invest in is your camping gear.
Step
1
Reservations
Plan your camping trip and make reservations at the Kipahulu Campground in Haleakala National Park. Take a look at the campsite map and choose one that is on the outskirts of the campground so you and your dog can have a little privacy and few other people around you (the sites are close together so any additional space is nice)!
Step
2
Get comfy
Set up your tent and all of your sleeping bags for the night. Make sure your dog has a cozy bed of blankets to sleep in to help them stay warm and cozy all night. Take your dog around the park for a walk in order to get them familiar with the sites and smells of the area. Start a fire, make some food and enjoy your night!
Step
3
Rest
Many people in the Haleakala National Park Campground turn in early in order to wake up for the park's epic sunrises so be prepared to go bed quickly! Zip your tent up with your dog inside to make sure they don't wander at night and then, get tucked in your sleeping bag with your dog by your side for warmth! Enjoy the sounds of nature as you and your dog drift off to sleep.
Sunrise
Popular
0 Votes
Sunny Day
Cheap
Easy
4 hrs
Items needed
Car
Blankets
Water
Food
Activity description
The majestic sunrises in Haleakala National Park are one of the main reasons people come to visit this area. As you stand atop a mountain peak, the sun rises up over the clouds in a way that is breathtaking and unique. Luckily, you can drive up to the top of the mountain with your dog by your side. While your pup will have to stay in the car for the main event, you can choose to snuggle them in the car as well or hop out quickly to watch the view from the summit. Be prepared for cold as the temperatures will be freezing and there is also a small parking fee you will need to pay.
Step
1
Reservation
You will need to make a reservation to see the sunrise in Haleakala National Park. While it may sound silly, making a reservation for a sunrise, it is necessary as parking at the top of the mountain is limited. Make a reservation online or over the phone to secure your parking spot. Then, all you and your pup have to do the day of the adventure is head out nice and early!
Step
2
Prepare
The drive up the mountain to the ideal sunrise viewing spot is an hour and a half. Along the way, there is nowhere to stop for food, gas or water so be prepared! Bring everything you and your dog may need on the mini road trip and pack your car the night before - you're going to have to wake up quite early to see every minute of the sunrise!
Step
3
Enjoy
Relax with your dog in the car and enjoy the sun as it comes up over the clouds and illuminates the sky. Take in the moment and think about how lucky you are to have your dog with you at a moment like this. As the entire sky gets bright, breathing life to a new day, just watch and think about everything you are grateful for, including your dog of course!
More Fun Ideas...
Outside Hikes
While in the Haleakala area, you will find many hikes in local neighboring towns that you and your dog may want to check out. Some hikes will even provide you views of Haleakala itself!
Photo Shoot
Head out on a driving tour of Haleakala National Park with your dog. Snap some pictures of your pup in front of a few stunning backgrounds and be sure to use a high-resolution camera - you're going to want to blow these pictures up and hang them on your wall!
Conclusion
Haleakala National Park is Hawaii at it's finest. Warm days, cold nights, picturesque settings and a place to bring your best friend - your dog! This is definitely a location you need to have on your list of places to visit and, clearly, you should bring your dog along for the ride. Plan a camping weekend or just go for a hike in the park but be sure to make a reservation for the sunrise - it is something you will want to see for sure.