Haleakala on Horseback FAQ Sheet

What is Haleakala National Park?
Haleakala National Park encompassess the Crater as well as the Ohe'o Gulch area on East Maui. It stretches from the summit of Haleakala at 10,023 feet to sea level where Ohe'o stream enters the Pacific.

What about the elevation?
Haleakala on Horseback explores the Crater from the rim (9,870 feet) to the floor (7,500 feet). Most people handle the elevation well although a few experience elevation sickness symptoms which can include headache, nausea and dizzyness. If you have had prior problems with elevation, our Haleakala Ranch rides at 4,000 feet are an option. We recommend riders who will also scuba dive while on Maui schedule the Crater ride first to avoid decompression problems associated with elevation.

How long will the drive from my hotel be?
The drive from Lahaina/Kaanapali is a leisurely two hours; from Kihei/Wailea about 1.5 hours. A rental car is recommended for the trip. There are no regularly scheduled round-trip shuttles to the top. Drivers are cautioned to use a lower gear when going downhill to assist in breaking.

How cold is it on the top?
Generally speaking, each 1,000 feet of elevation results in a three degree difference of temperature. The 10,000' summit is around 30 degrees cooler than at sea level. A toasty 85 degrees in Lahaina can be 55 degrees on top of Haleakala. Add a little breeze and you can see why dressing warmly in layers is required. The day will warm slightly as we make our descent to the floor (less breeze) and riders begin to peel layers to adjust.

Suncsreen?
Yes indeed! Maximum sunscreen will help you avoid a nasty sunburn (don't forget the backs of your hands). The elevation permits more of the suns' rays to reach your skin. A hat is strongly encouraged as well.

Can we canter the horses?
Both the Crater Rides are touring rides which do not feature cantering. The Crater Rides go into the Parks' back country which is accessible only by foot or horseback. Outside medical assistance will not readily be available in the event a rider takes a spill while cantering.

How can I pay?
We accept cash, credit cards (visa/mc/amex/disc) and travelers checks. We require a CC# upon reserving to hold the reservation. We do require 48 hours notice to cancel a reservation. Less than 48 hours may incur a charge.

What type of restrictions?
We require that all riders weigh less than 235#, be at least 10 years old (9 with lots of riding experience) and no pregnant riders. We have no maximum age restriction but feel it prudent to consult with those over 65 concerning the rigors of the ride.

Do you have to be an experienced rider?
No. While experience will add to the enjoyment of the ride, we routinely take first time riders.

How to proceed?
First step is to decide your level of riding:

Weather Check- Riders should call on the morning of the ride at 7:00 AM SHARP at 871-0990 for a weather check.

We are proud to offer one of the only horseback rides in the world that goes into a dormant volcano crater. Riders are limited to small groups of eight and are led by experienced and knowledgeable wranglers who narate about the plant life, geology and legends of the crater. We offer two rides which operate Monday through Saturday.

Ka Moa O Pele Junction Ride This is the most popular Crater ride we do! The elevation change is approximately 2,500' to the Crater floor along 3.8 miles of gently sloping trails! Round trip totals 7.6 miles of incredible scenery! Riders meet at the Haleakala Visitor Center parking lot at 9:30 AM. Space is limited to eight riders and fill up fast so make reservations early! Experienced & knowledgeable wranglers narrate about the plant life, geology, and legends & wildlife of the Crater. A well deserved picnic lunch is served on the floor where croissant sandwiches never tasted better! No experience is needed--just a yen for adventure and a taste for the unusual! The ride returns back to the rim between 2:30-3:00 PM. 2005/2006 price is $155.00 per person plus tax. ($161.46)

Kapalaoa Cabin Ride - For those who feel at ease in the saddle, this is the longest trail ride on Maui covering twelve miles of incredible scenery! Ride meets at the Haleakala Visitor Center parking lot at 9:30 AM. We go all the way to the Crater floor....and a whole lot more! Kapalaoa Cabin beckons with a delicious lunch and a chance to stretch you legs! Pele's Paint Pot, Bottomless Pit and, if they're in the area, the Nene Goose (Hawaii State Bird) are just some of the attractions on this unforgettable journey! This is 5-6 hours on horseback! If you have what it takes, this ride is for you! The ride returns back to the rim at 5:00 PM. 2005/2006 price is $190.00 per person plus tax. ($197.92)