self guided sunrise bike tour maui

Haleakala Day Bike Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey with our Maui Haleakala Day Bike Tour and discover the beauty of one of the world's most iconic natural wonders. Start your day by biking the slopes of Haleakala, a 10,000-foot volcano that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. We meet at our office 497 Baldwin Ave in Paia at 7:30am. After a guided van tour to the launch point at 6,500 ft. Our experienced guides will provide a guided tour leading you on a thrilling descent through winding roads, showcasing the diverse natural beauty of Maui. This Haleakala bike tour offers an opportunity to experience the island's unique flora and fauna, lush rainforests, pineapple fields, and quaint towns such as Makawao and Paia. "

As you ride down the volcano, you will learn about the island's rich history, culture and its people. You will also have the chance to stop at various lookout points, to take pictures, and to enjoy the scenery. We make a rest stop in the town of Makawao. This tour offers the perfect blend of adventure and sightseeing, making it a must-do for any Maui vacation. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or a first-time rider, our guides will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Don't miss out on the opportunity to see Maui from a different angle, book your Maui Haleakala Day Bike Tour today and make memories that will last a lifetime!

Been to Haleakala before? Want to save over $100 per person? Take one of our Bike Tours beginning at the entrance to the park.. still the longest bike ride of any of the bike companies.

Trip certificate

Activity Owners Association

Certified interpretive guides.

Trip Advisor

Hawaii Visitors Bureau

Mountain Riders Maui Bike Tours

Experience the most incredible journey of a lifetime. Maui bike tours with Mountain Riders takes you down the slopes of Maui’s Haleakala Volcano. You may choose between our Sunrise or day bike tours that are either guided or self paced.

As you begin your journey at the 6500 foot elevation downhill to Paia Bay you will descend the verdant green slopes of Haleakala. You will see the beautiful West Maui mountains and the South Maui coastline. Continuing your Mountain Riders bike journey you will pass through Maui’s small upcountry communities of Kula and Makawao, eventually ending at Maui’s favorite beach town of Paia.

Our number one priority is to offer the safest and most informative Haleakala bicycle journey available. Each bike rider is informed on what to expect and the requirements for biking safely . 

We look forward to seeing you on the mountain!

The Best Haleakala Sunrise Bike Tour

We at maui mountain riders are offering the best unguided bike ride down haleakala volcano.

ALL MAUI BIKE TOURS

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Self-Guided Haleakala Biking Tour - Sunrise & Morning Adventures by Bike Maui

Biking Tour

Maui fun time, steve and alli, 6.5 - 8 hour(s), available daily, pick-up not available, not accessible, what to expect, [9:30 am] express self-guided downhill bike tour.

Price per Adult/Child :

[8:00AM] Haleakala Summit Sightseeing Tour & Self-Guided Downhill Bike Adventure

Haleakala summit sunrise sightseeing tour & self-guided downhill bike adventure.

Check-in at Haleakala Bike Co.

Hop on our comfortable vehicle for a scenic tour that takes you up to around 6,500 feet outside Haleakala National Park. Enjoy the stunning views and fresh mountain air, setting the stage for an exhilarating ride.

Ride the KONA® mountain bikes for an exhilarating downhill biking experience. Equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, embark on your thrilling Haleakala bike adventure.

Get ready for the highlight of your day as you tackle the famous "Fabulous 29" switchbacks not once, but twice! This exhilarating ride unveils stunning views of the island below with its twists and turns.

Before arriving into the town of Kula, disembark from your bike. and head back into the van for a break as your driver makes their way to Makawao. Hear about the unique history of this area that is now famous for its lavender fields, local distilleries, botanical gardens, farms. and more.

Makawao is well-known for its Hawaiian cowboys, or paniolo, and is home to an annual rodeo. Take some time to explore this town filled with eclectic boutiques, original art galleries, and delicious local eateries. This combination of paniolo history and an artistic community should not be missed.

After your visit to Makawao, grab your bike to continue on the final leg of your journey to the town of Haiku and the offices of Bike Maui. This approximate 5 mile bike ride is the perfect end to a wonderful day that began at the summit of Haleakala, and now ends with the crew of Bike Maui.

Transportation add-ons

Pick-up/check-in time & location.

Drop-off/Check-out Time & Location

• Check-in Counter

15:30-16:00

Important activity information, restrictions.

• Guests who are pregnant are not permitted to participate in this activity.
• Guests with neck, back or joint problems are not permitted to participate in this activity.
• This activity is not wheelchair accessible.
• Children 15 years old and above can participate in the biking activity.
• Guests must be at least 4 ft 10 in (147 cm) to participate in the biking activity.
• Guests must be below 300 lbs (136 kg) to participate in in the biking activity.
• Participants going on the biking activity must know how to comfortably ride a bicycle. No beginner bicyclist will be allowed on the tour.
• There are no height or weight restrictions for the van ride-a-long option.
• Children 7 years old and above are allowed to be in the ride-a-long van without adult supervision. Children between 3 and 6 years old must have a parent, guardian, or other adult accompany them in the vehicle.
• After the sunrise portion of the tour, bike riders are separated from the ride alongs. The ride alongs will go back to the baseyard in Haiku while the bike riders participate on the bike back.

Other requirements

• Please call the activity provider the day before to reconfirm your booking. Your voucher has the necessary contact information listed.
• Participants are required to sign a liability waiver at the time of check-in.
• Minors are required to have a parent or guardian sign their liability waiver.

Booking requirements (# of participants, vehicles, hours, etc.)

• You can book a maximum of 6.

Required items to bring & attire

• Bottled water
• Closed toe shoes
• Comfortable clothing
• The weather at the Haleakala summit is unpredictable, and temperatures commonly range between 40°F and 65°F, but can be below freezing at anytime of year with the wind chill factor. Weather changes rapidly at high elevations on Haleakala, and intense sunlight, thick clouds, heavy rain and high winds are possible daily. Participants should wear lightweight, layered clothing that will keep you warm even in wet weather, as well as sturdy and comfortable shoes.

Additional notes

• The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
• The activity provider does not assume any responsibility for your valuables and/or personal belongings.
• The tour guide has full discretion to refuse service to customers based on attire, behavior, physical fitness and condition.
• Gratuity is not included in the price.
• Drinks and meals are available for purchase
• While rain gear is provided, participants should be sure to wear layered clothing that will keep you warm.
• Guests may not scuba dive within 24 hours of this tour.

Relax and unwind on a comfortable journey to Haleakala with an expert guide providing entertaining stories about the area and historical information about Maui's most famous volcano.

When you reach the summit, join a guided tour of Haleakala National Park. This informative experience helps you better understand the park's distinctive attributes - the volcanic crater, native Hawaiian plants, and the cultural significance of the area.

Start your self-guided bike ride just outside the park entrance at an elevation of around 6,500 feet. Ride the KONA® mountain bikes for an exhilarating downhill biking experience. Equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, embark on your thrilling Haleakala bike adventure.

Ascend to the Haleakala summit located 10,023 feet above sea level and watch as the sun makes it way over the horizon and clouds in a stunning display. While the sun rise, you will see why Haleakala earned its name of "The House of the Sun," and learn about the myths surrounding this volcano.

Start time :

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Overall rating

Corey was an amazing guide. He gave clear directions the entire trip, and made the experience next level! Entire excursion was amazing.

The trip was great. Roy our driver was knowledgeable about so many things and share it all with us. We learned a lot about the island, food, and couture. It too bad we had to load the bikes in a trailer and get in the v ... ehicle because we were not allowed to ride through the neighborhood area. Sunrise was beautiful, bike ride down was fun. Great experience. Roy was the best. Steve and Alli

Great way to see a beautiful sunrise and cruise down a volcano!!!

As part of our 25th anniversary week in Maui we booked this early morning excursion. It certainly did not disappoint. The tour guides were informative and courteous. They took us to the best spot for the sunrise, got a g ... reat action shot of us “jumping off” The side of the volcano. We were given great instructions as to how to get back to the bike shop. We had a nice time leisurely coming down. Stopped at a really nice spot for breakfast then proceeded into the town did some shopping grab a snack at the bakery and got back to the shop in plenty of time.

Activity Provider Haleakala Eco Tours

Activity provider, payment / cancellation policy.

• Credit card payment

• Any cancellations made after 15:00 local time, 3 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.
• Any changes made after 15:00 local time, 3 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/ time, package, the number of participants, etc.

Payment Methods

Cancellation Policy

Change policy, do i need to know how to ride a bike to participate.

Yes. This tour requires participants to have an intermediate experience on a bike.

What should I wear for this tour?

A sweatshirt and long pants are recommended to wear, also something will keep you warm. Haleakala weather could be very cold around Haleakala summit at 10,000 ft. For the sunrise time, the temperature can get into 30℉(-1℃) and daytime will be 60℉(15℃). But once you start your bike trip making you down the hill, it would be 80℉ (26℃) and you might get hot. You may want to have some layers that you can take off later.

Is the tour self-guided?

You will get the guided tour in the Haleakala National Park. But the bike ride is self-guided, so you can come down the hill your own comfortable pace and stop and enjoy incredible views of West Maui! Your guide will take you to the outside of the park’s entrance where you will start your bike adventure. Before you start biking, you will get the route map has information.

Please visit VELTRA Support page to send an inquiry about this activity.

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AN EXHILARATING EXPERIENCE YOU’LL ALWAYS REMEMBER

Explore the epic volcanic landscapes of Haleakala with guided or self-guided bike tours. Begin your experience with our guided vehicle trek up to the 10,000ft. summit, then cruise down the mountain on our top-of-the-line Kona bikes. Haleakala EcoTours is a concessioner of the National Park Service and is authorized to provide guided road tours within Haleakala National Park.

THE BEST WAY TO EXPLORE MAUI

Book early and save!  Advance pricing is available for bookings made at least 72 hours ahead of the tour date.

Self-Guided Sunrise

SELF-GUIDED TOUR

Self-Guided Morning

Self-Guided Express

CRUISER PHIL'S

SUNRISE - Guided

GUIDED TOUR

MORNING - Guided

RESORT & CRUISE SHIP PICK-UP AVAILABLE

 SUNRISE TOURS

What a way to start your day! Sunrise at the 10,000 ft. summit of Maui’s majestic Haleakala volcano is one of the most amazing sights you will ever see and the opportunity of a lifetime.

 DAY TOURS

Breathe in the cool, refreshing Hawaiian air, and gaze out at the epic island landscapes. From the summit, you’ll have a chance to see the crater and explore the visitor center.

 PRIVATE TOURS

Avoid the crowds and enjoy the safety and comfort of a private tour. Enjoy a guided tour of Haleakala National Park, then visit Upcountry Kula, historic Makawao, laid-back Hookipa, quaint Haiku, and lively Paia.

ENGAGE WITH BIKE MAUI @HALEAKALAMAUI

Share your photos on Instagram and Twitter using #explorehaleakala and we may add them to this gallery!

Enjoy more Maui adventures and SAVE 20% INSTANTLY with our sister companies.

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Steady pressure maui sportfishing charters.

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Haleakala Sunrise Self-Guided Bike Tour With Bike Maui

Set out on an extraordinary journey with the Haleakala Sunrise Self-Guided Bike Tour with Bike Maui, where travelers can witness the magnificent sunrise over the Haleakala Crater and navigate its scenic switchbacks twice.

This 7-hour experience not only offers stunning views at Haleakala Summit but also allows for exploration of the charming Makawao town . With the flexibility of free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, participants can enjoy peace of mind.

As itineraries are subject to change, checking availability for starting times is essential. Discover the wonders of Maui’s upcountry region and make lasting memories on this remarkable self-guided bike tour.

Other bike experiences happening nearby

• Haleakala Guided Bike Tour With Bike Maui (Daytime)
• Haleakala Sunrise Guided Bike Tour With Bike Maui

• Witness stunning sunrise over Haleakala Crater
• Bike down exhilarating 29 switchbacks
• Explore charming Makawao town
• Enjoy convenience with free cancellation and flexible payment

Booking Details for the Tour

When booking the Haleakala Sunrise Bike Tour with Bike Maui, travelers can take advantage of flexible options such as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now and pay later. This means visitors have the peace of mind to adjust their plans within a reasonable timeframe without any financial repercussions.

The tour provides a convenient payment structure, allowing individuals to secure their spot without immediate payment, making it easier to plan their trip without immediate financial commitment. Plus, guests will have the opportunity to experience the breathtaking sunrise views at Haleakala and explore the charming town of Makawao, adding even more value to their biking adventure.

Tour Highlights to Expect

Get ready to witness stunning views at Haleakala Sunrise, bike down its switchbacks, and explore the charming Makawao town on the Haleakala Sunrise Bike Tour with Bike Maui.

The tour promises a breathtaking experience as you watch the sunrise over the majestic Haleakala Crater, creating a picturesque backdrop for your adventure.

As you begin your descent from the summit at 6,500 feet altitude , you’ll have the opportunity to bike down the Fabulous 29 switchbacks twice, offering an exhilarating ride through the stunning landscape.

Plus, exploring Maui’s upcountry region and visiting Makawao town adds a cultural touch to the trip, allowing you to learn about the local charm and beauty of the area.

Duration of the Self-Guided Tour

The Self-Guided Tour through Haleakala and Makawao typically lasts for approximately 7 hours, offering ample time to explore the stunning landscapes and cultural gems at your own pace.

This tour length allows participants to fully enjoy the beauty of Haleakala Sunrise and the charming town of Makawao without feeling rushed.

The time commitment of 7 hours ensures that adventurers have enough time to witness the sunrise over Haleakala Crater, bike down the exhilarating switchbacks, and leisurely explore the upcountry region of Maui.

Participants can savor each moment of the journey, taking in the breathtaking views and unique experiences that this self-guided tour has to offer.

Important Information for Participants

Participants embarking on the Haleakala Sunrise Bike Tour with Bike Maui should be aware of key information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Safety precautions are paramount for this tour, so all participants must wear helmets provided by Bike Maui.

Plus, it’s essential to follow the tour guide’s instructions at all times to ensure a safe biking experience down the Haleakala switchbacks. Weather conditions can change rapidly at the summit, so it’s advisable to dress in layers and bring warm clothing to stay comfortable during the early morning hours.

Being prepared for varying weather conditions will enhance the overall enjoyment of the tour and allow participants to fully appreciate the breathtaking views of the Haleakala sunrise.

Directions for the Bike Tour

Navigating the winding roads and scenic vistas on the Haleakala Sunrise Bike Tour requires a keen sense of direction and an adventurous spirit. Safety tips are essential for this self-guided adventure. Before setting off, riders should ensure their bikes are in good condition, wear appropriate safety gear, and stay alert for changing road conditions.

The scenic route offers breathtaking views of Maui’s landscape, with opportunities to stop and take in the beauty along the way. Riders should follow all traffic rules and be cautious of other vehicles on the road.

The tour provides a unique experience for those looking to explore Haleakala National Park at their own pace, making it an unforgettable journey for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.

What to Explore Along the Way

Exploring along the Haleakala Sunrise Bike Tour route unveils a tapestry of natural wonders and cultural gems waiting to be discovered. Along the way, cyclists can enjoy:

Scenic overlooks : Stop and admire breathtaking views of the Haleakala Crater and surrounding landscapes.

Local cafes : Take a break and savor some delicious local cuisine at charming cafes in the area.

Historical sites : Discover the rich history of Maui by visiting historical landmarks along the route.

Botanical gardens : Enjoy the diverse flora of Maui by exploring botanical gardens on the journey.

Artisan shops : Browse through artisan shops to find unique souvenirs and locally made crafts to remember your trip by.

Common questions

Is Transportation Provided to the Haleakala Summit for the Sunrise, or Do Participants Need to Arrange Their Own Transportation?

Participants must arrange their own transportation to Haleakala summit for the sunrise. Car rental is recommended. The tour does not provide transportation to the summit. This allows flexibility for participants to control their transportation options and schedules.

Are Helmets and Other Safety Gear Provided for the Bike Ride Down the Haleakala Switchbacks?

Safety equipment , including helmets , is provided for the self-guided bike ride down the Haleakala switchbacks. Participants can opt for rental options for additional gear. Enjoy the downhill fun while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Are There Any Age or Height Restrictions for Participants on the Self-Guided Bike Tour?

Participants on the self-guided bike tour may encounter age restrictions and height requirements for safety. These guidelines are in place to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience. Please check with the tour provider for specific details.

Is There a Recommended Level of Biking Experience or Fitness Level Required for This Tour?

For the self-guided bike tour, participants should have a moderate level of biking experience and fitness. The tour involves biking down Haleakala switchbacks twice at 6,500 feet altitude . It’s recommended to be comfortable with biking downhill.

Are There Any Dining Options or Stops for Food and Drinks Along the Bike Route?

Restroom breaks and scenic viewpoints are available along the route. Enjoy local cuisine or picnic spots in Makawao town. Cyclists can refuel and hydrate at various stops to enhance their experience during the Haleakala Sunrise Self-Guided Bike Tour.

Experience the magic of the Haleakala Sunrise Self-Guided Bike Tour with Bike Maui for an unforgettable adventure in Maui’s upcountry region. Witness the stunning sunrise over the Haleakala Crater, explore charming Makawao town, and bike down scenic switchbacks twice.

With flexible booking options and the promise of lasting memories, this 7-hour tour is a must-do for those seeking exhilaration and awe-inspiring beauty on the island of Maui.

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• What Makes Us Different

No Haleakala Sunrise Bike Tour?

Maui Sunriders offered Haleakala sunrise tours for nearly 20 years. Here is why we decided to bid farewell to sunrise tours:

HALEAKALA SUNRISE Bike Tours are MORE EXPENSIVE

The National Park service charges a pretty penny for tour operators to shuttle guests to the summit for sunrise. Haleakala sunrise bike tour companies pass that entire cost off to you, the guest. Therefore, b ooking a sunrise bike tour with any operator will cost $200-$240 per person.

Our tour is around half of that price, and, due to the self-guided nature of our tour, we feel that the cycling experience is, in fact, better.

Did you know you can see the sunrise (with a National Park reservation) or sunset (no reservations needed) on your own for a fraction of the cost? Read to the end for tips on how to pull this off!

ALL HALEAKALA Bike Rides START AT THE SAME PLACE

The National Park Service does not allow any downhill bike tour operator to ride bikes within the National Park, which starts at an elevation of about 7,000′ (the summit is at 10,000′!). No bike tours on Maui start at the summit!

Immediately after watching the sunrise from the summit on a sunrise bike tour, you get back in the van to drive down to an elevation of 6,500′; all bike tour operators use this elevation as the staging area for their bike rides.  

On a sunrise bike tour, your experience at the summit is short-lived (and cold!). Don’t you want to explore the summit area? Maybe explore some of the 35+ miles of hiking trails accessible from the summit? We suggest going into the Park on your own to really enjoy your time up there!

Sunrise Tours Are Earlier than you might think!

To watch the sunrise at 10,000′, you have to wake up VERY EARLY. Do you really want to wake up at 1-2am on vacation? Riders are often groggy and sleepy after sunrise which compromises your ability to stay focused on the bike ride, potentially making the ride more dangerous. Early morning temperatures at elevation are also quite low (not unusual to be near freezing temperatures), meaning it will be a chilly start to your ride!

HALEAKALA SUNRISE TOUR TRAFFIC AND SAFETY

On a sunrise bike tour, your ride starts at the height of the descending sunrise traffic. On weekdays, you’ll also find yourself in the height of local traffic heading to work or school, particularly at the lower elevations.

Locals are often stuck behind downhill cyclists, which can be frustrating for both drivers and cyclists alike.  Our mid-morning Haleakala downhill ride starts a bit later; there are fewer cars on the road, making for a less stressful ride down.

Our later start also reduces our local impact on the roads. This is also why we don’t do guided tours…sag vehicles and large groups occupy a large stretch of road and can cause long delays!

If A Haleakala Sunrise Tour is a must, here’s a cost-effective way to make it happen…

Catch the famous Maui Haleakala sunrise on your own with a $1.50 online sunrise reservation fee through the National Park website AND a $30 park entrance fee per car (pay at the gate – your ticket is valid for 3 days at Summit & Kīpahulu entrance).

Online sunrise reservations are VERY hard to attain as sunrise is very popular & crowded. They sell out far in advance and even their 2-day batch release can sell out in less than a minute. Remember you will need to wake up around 1-2am to drive up the volcano in time to catch the sun. It will be VERY cold (temps in the 30s, and often windy!) so dress warm & bring layers.

We suggest doing sunrise on a different day than your bike ride. While you can do it on the same day as your bike tour with us, you will have to be in the car to start your drive down immediately after sunrise in order to get to our shop by 8:45am. Plan to leave the summit no later than 7:15am to get back down to our bike shop in time for your bike ride.  

Unfortunately, we cannot meet riders up on Haleakala. All riders must check-in at our shop.

Our Recommendation? Catch a summit sunset on your own after our bike tour!

Sunsets at the Haleakala summit are just as good – if not better – than sunrises. It’s warmer, there are fewer people, and no reservation is needed.

Join us in the morning for your downhill ride. After your ride, get some lunch in Paia. Grab some food & beverages to bring with you, then drive yourself up to the summit at 10,000′. The entry fee is $30 per car (pay at the entrance gate- ticket is valid for 3 days at Summit & Kīpahulu entrances). No reservations are required after 7am.

From our shop, it’s a 1.5 hour drive to the summit. You can enter the park a couple of hours before sunset and explore the park, go for an out-and-back hike into the crater (Sliding Sands trail!), and therefore see more than you would at sunrise.

Keep in mind – all sunrises and sunsets are 50/50…views are spectacular on a clear day, but clouds can roll in with little notice. It’s not uncommon for the entire summit to be socked in!

For sunset, you can always look up the volcano before committing to the drive to see if it’s clear. However, don’t be fooled by the clouds, they often linger around 6500′-7500′. The 10,000′ summit might be clear of the cloud layer.

When in doubt you can always check the Live Webcam at Haleakala Summit . It will be cold once the sun begins to set so dress warm & bring layers. For the best viewing, get there early as the summit parking fills up fast – but the secondary lower lot is just as good so don’t stress about it too much.

Committing to a sunrise viewing is all or nothing – you have a reservation, and you start driving in the dark…there’s no way to look up to see if it’s clear or not!

• Toll-free: 877-678-7333 -or- 808-876-7777

Bike Down Haleakala At Your Own Pace!

• Bike Maui Self-Guided Tours
• Downhill Bike Tours

• Sunrise tour and morning tour includes Haleakala Summit
• Bike on your own down the mountain
• 6000 vertical feet drop over 23 miles of biking
• Express tour option for those who do not want van tour of the summit

Description

Maui offers the world's longest downhill bike tour, but not everyone wants to do a traditional tour with a guide in the front leading a group of 12 bikers down the mountain. Some people want to go faster; others want the freedom to go slower and stop wherever they like. For those with an "independent streak" Bike Maui has "Self-Guided" tours that will take you to the top of Haleakala, give you a tour of the National Park, and then set you up with a bike for you to ride down at your own pace. Instead of being led down the mountain by a biking guide, you are free to set your own pace, stopping whenever you like for photos, grabbing a bite to eat, shopping in the Makawao boutiques … your itinerary is up to you! You just have to arrive back at the bike tour company's Haiku location by 4pm that afternoon. Self-guided bikers do not have a "support vehicle" following them, but if there are problems with your equipment or any emergencies you are given a phone number to call for support during the day. The support vehicle is never more than 30 minutes away. On the way up the mountain the driver traces the route for you, and you are given a detailed map showing the ideal route for you to follow on the way down. You bike the high mountain swithbacks that start just outside of Hakeakala National Park, through Makawao town, then down Kokomo Road to the town of Haiku and the bike tour company's baseyard. These tours are offered 7 days a week.

While you are free to bike at your own pace, recent Maui county regulations restrict unguided bike tours from riding in the Kula residential area / Kula highway. After you start your ride at 6500 feet, you will be on your own to ride through the upper mountain switchbacks above treeline. You are free to stop for photos on this part of the ride, but the van will be waiting for you at the start of the Kula residential area. Riders will get back into the van and will be transported to a spot just above Makawao town where your bike riding with continue.

ALL BIKE TOURS start the actual biking portion of the tour at the same place … just outside the National Park entrance at 6500 feet. The Sunrise and Morning tours will go to the summit of Haleakala and tour the park, and the bike riding begins after the park tour is over. No bike tours are permitted to ride inside the park. The Express tour skips the National Park tour and is a great option for those who have already been to the summit and just want to do the biking.

Self-Guided Summit Sunrise Bike Tour Rate (HBC4)

$250.92 per Biker   (Hawaii sales tax included)

If the Self-Guided Summit Sunrise is already sold out for your dates, consider doing the SELF-GUIDED MORNING TOUR instead! The biking route is exactly the same, and Haleakala Crater is more colorful and better photographed in mid-morning light! Compare the two crater images seen here for an example of the difference.

Self-Guided Summit Morning Bike Tour Rate (HBC5)

$206.51 per Biker   (Hawaii sales tax included)

Self-Guided Express Bike Tour Rate (HBC6)

$124.31 per Biker   (Hawaii sales tax included)

GPS Address: 810 Haiku Road #120, Haiku 96708 Click to view map

Tour includes: Admission and tour of Haleakala National Park (on Sunrise and Morning tours), Kona mountain bike with disc brakes, backpack, Helly Hansen raingear, helmet, and phone number for support vehicle to repond to equipment issues or emergencies on the mountain.

Transportation: The price of these tours do not include hotel pickup and transportation is not available for Self-Guided tours.

Biking: >95% downhill.

Restrictions: Minimum biking age is 15 … due to high elevation no pregnant women are allowed on this tour. Maximum weight approx. 280lbs. Minimum height 4'10".

What to Wear: Dress warmly in layers and wear closed toed shoes like sneakers.

Reservations: Advanced reservations required and we recommend booking this a month or more before your arrival. This event is "RESERVE NOW PAY LATER"; we need a credit card on file to finalize your reservation but we do not charge you for this reservation until a few days before the beginning of your vacation!

Minimum Notice for Cancellations / Changes: For smaller parties, at least 48 hours before the start of the event. For groups of 10 or more, 7 days before the start of the event.

The most helpful piece of advice for doing the Self-Guided Bike Tour is to make your reservation in advance for the first full day that you are in Hawaii when the time change is working in your favor. The longer you are in Hawaii the harder it will be for you to wake up in the middle of the night to do the drive to the bike company baseyard. The logic is simple. Due to the time change, you will find yourself waking up at 4am on the first day that you are here anyway. Since you are already going to wake up early that day, you might as well get up a little bit earlier and start our your vacation by doing something fun and exciting! In order to book this sunrise tour before your arrival you obviously need to book it BEFORE your arrival. But don't wait until just before your trip. This tour is VERY popular and space is VERY limited. Summit sunrise dates sometimes sell out a MONTH in advance!

If the sunrise tour is already sold out on your dates, don't let that stop you from seeing Healakala Crater and doing the same bike tour during the MORNING time slot. There are advantages to the morning tour ... for one thing you don't loose a night's sleep because the start time isn't in the middle of the night. But more importantly, the actual views INTO Healakala Crater are better during the morning tour than they are the sunrise tour. The sunrise is often (but not always) spectacular ... but the crater is backlit during the sunrise. In mid-morning light when the sun is higher in the sky the colors of the crater come alive and the cinder cones are much more visible. Take a look at the image above of the crater during the SUNRISE and the crater during the MORNING tour. We think you will see that the colors of the crater itself show up far better!

Remember, it gets cold at 6,000-10,000 feet, especially in the winter months. Yes, the bike companies provide a wind breaker, but you will still want some layers underneath and perhaps a pair of gloves, especially for the Summit Sunrise tour.

My personal preference and recommendation is to do a GUIDED bike tour because of the support vehicle that follows your group down the mountain. That being said, there certainly is a place for the unguided tours here on this page with a "bike on your own" approach. Some people are just to independent to be tied down by a guide and stuck with a group for several hours of biking. Some want to go faster than the pace the guide sets. Others want to go slower and REALLY take their time on the way down. If you want to set your own pace and your own itinerary, this is your chance!

The road that you bike is completely paved, and while there are lots of 180 degree turns and it is 5-6% downhill grade, it is not inherently dangerous AS LONG AS YOU KNOW HOW TO RIDE A BIKE!!! I can't emphasize this enough ... while there are occasionally accidents on this ride (and on rare occasions those accidents have been fatal), they are almost always the result of someone who lacked confidence (and/or ability) at riding a bicycle. If you are riding a bike and you fall, or you run into a guardrail, you ARE going to get hurt ... whether you are doing it on a mountain on Maui or on flat ground in Kansas! My best advice is this ... IF YOU HAVE NOT RIDDEN A BICYCLE IN 40 YEARS, THE TOP OF A VOLCANO IS NOT THE BEST PLACE TO TRY TO REMEMBER HOW TO RIDE A BIKE!!! Borrow a bicycle from someone and ride around your neighborhood before you come to Hawaii. A few hours of peddling will refresh your mind about steering and braking and give you the confidence you need to do just fine on this ride. If you are uncomfortable riding a bike in your neighborhood, then you should sit out this activity or just go along in the van for the ride. All bikers must sign a waiver of liability that acknowledges that there are inherent dangers present with operating a bicylce, as there are with any moving vehicle. The tour operators do their best to provide quality equipment, but they cannot steer and brake and balance the bicycle for you, and they can't be held responsible in cases where a participant fails to do those things and gets hurt!