On clear days, the views from Haleakala stretch for more than 100 miles, but you're as likely to be focused on the unique landscape in front of you - deeply sculpted, richly colored, and filled with unique native Hawaiian species. No place you have ever been can prepare you for the experiences and feelings you will have on the summit of Haleakala volcano, Maui's highest peak.

Departing from Lahaina, the drive to the volcano is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes each direction. This trip combines two hikes in one. First, you'll take a two-mile hike, one mile down hill, one mile uphill, at 8,000 feet on a lava rock trail lined with rare endemic plant species. Next, you'll hike another two miles, one mile down hill, one mile uphill, at the 10,000-foot summit where huge cinder cones dominate the desert-like, expansive scenery. If time allows, you may also take a short loop trail at 7,000 feet through Hosmer Grove, a cloud forest full of unusual native Hawaiian birds.

While there be sure to take advantage of your guide's extensive knowledge of Hawaii's geology, culture, and botany to make this foreign landscape truly come alive.