State: Hawaii
Location: Haleakala National Park
Length, One-Way: 10.4 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 6380 feet
Maximum Elevation: 9780 feet
Elevation Change: 3400 feet
Best Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
Difficulty: Difficult
Usage: Moderate
Plumeria Growing on Oahu
Trail Information
The Keoneheehee or Sliding Sands Trail is a difficult trail descending 2,800 feet in the first 4 miles through a cinder desert to the valley floor. For a difficult half-day hike, take the trail to the first cinder cone, Ka Luu o ka Oo to complete a five mile round trip hike. For overnight trips, the Keoneheehee Trail leads to Kapalaoa cabin in 5.6 miles, or Paliku cabin and campsite in 10.4 miles.
On long treks to the central valley or beyond it is recommended that you hike the Halemauu Trail out of the valley due to the steepness and soft cinder base of the Keoneheehee Trail.
Directions
From Highway 378
Take Haleakala Crater Road to the Haleakala Visitor Center. Park in the visitor center parking lot. The trail leaves from the eastern side of the parking area.
