Wilderness Cabins

About

Located inside the massive volcanic crater of Haleakalā on Maui, these three wilderness cabins offer a unique overnight experience in one of Hawaii's most otherworldly landscapes. Hōlua Cabin sits at 6,940 feet amid native shrubland, 3.7 miles down the Halemauʻu Trail. Kapalaoa Cabin perches at 7,250 feet near the Kaupō Gap in a grass field, 5.5 miles from the trailhead. Palikū Cabin at 6,380 feet lies at the base of a lush rainforest cliff on the crater's east end, requiring a strenuous 9.3-mile hike. Each cabin provides 12 padded bunks, a wood-burning stove, and a propane stove for cooking. Eighteen firewood lockers supply three logs per night of reservation. Non-potable water is available at spigots near the cabins but must be filtered or treated before drinking. Pit toilets are located near each cabin. There is no electricity, cell service, or showers. Weather changes rapidly with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 70°F, and hikers should be prepared for sun, rain, wind, and cold. All overnight visitors must reserve through Recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance. The $75 per night fee is separate from the $30 vehicle entrance fee. Pets and drones are prohibited in the wilderness. Open fires are not permitted; only the cabin stoves may be used. All hikers must pack out everything they pack in. Plan for the return hike to take twice as long as the descent due to significant elevation gain.

Directions

Kapalaoa, Palikū, and Hōlua cabins are located in designated Wilderness inside the Haleakalā crater. From the park entrance, drive to either the Halemauʻu Trailhead (10 minutes from entrance) or the Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trailhead (30 minutes from entrance). Hōlua is 3.7 miles via Halemauʻu Trail. Kapalaoa is 5.5 miles via Keoneheʻeheʻe Trail. Palikū is 9.3 miles via Keoneheʻeheʻe Trail or 10.4 miles via Halemauʻu Trail.