Helped by the speed of our muscle car rental upgrade we made it up to the summit of Haleakala volcano just in time for the sun rise. We got to the edge of the vast crater in time to enjoy a few minutes of the pre-sunrise twilight. As the first glimmer of sun rose above the clouds one of the park rangers started a Hawaiian chant which has been used to hail the sun for generations at this very sacred place.
It was one of the least windy mornings I've experienced at the summit. This was a pleasant surprise since we were very under dressed, having not brought any warm clothes from Oahu with us.
The sun cast a beautiful red tinge on the volcanic rocks in the crater. It is like no other place in Hawaii. A definite must experience for any adventurous souls making their way out to this beautiful island. Hiking paths crisscross the Manhattan sized crater below, and a few overnight cabins dot the paths as well. We followed our tradition of a nature walk at Hossmer's Grove down near the visitor center in search of the elusive I'iwi bird, and then a wonderful breakfast down at the base of the volcano with some hot coffee to warm up my still cold hands.
The sun cast a beautiful red tinge on the volcanic rocks in the crater. It is like no other place in Hawaii. A definite must experience for any adventurous souls making their way out to this beautiful island. Hiking paths crisscross the Manhattan sized crater below, and a few overnight cabins dot the paths as well. We followed our tradition of a nature walk at Hossmer's Grove down near the visitor center in search of the elusive I'iwi bird, and then a wonderful breakfast down at the base of the volcano with some hot coffee to warm up my still cold hands.
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