 | | Kaupo Gap Trail is extremely challenging. From the top of Kaupo Gap, at Paliku cabin and campsite, the trail descends 6,100 feet in 8.7 miles. Do not hike this trail if you have weak knees, heart or lung conditions, or a bad back. The trail can be extremely hot and there is very little shade or shelter. There is no water along this trail.The hike begins at the top of Kaupo Gap near Paliku campsite (at 6,380 feet). Steep switchbacks descend for 3.7 miles through native shrubland and mesic koa forest to the park boundary. The trail crosses onto private land here at 3,880 feet. The trail turns into a jeep road and drops steeply for two miles. This stretch of the trail can be hot and treacherous. At about mile six the trail turns left off of the jeep road and meanders steeply down through thickets of alien guava and Christmas berry before reaching Kaupo Ranch (at mile 7.2 around 1,040 feet). The trail ends here.A jeep road continues 1.5 miles to the village of Kaupo. Kaupo Store is about eight miles away from the Kipahulu area of Haleakala National Park and about 16.3 miles from Hana. Plan this trip carefully, logistics are difficult because at the end of the hike you will be at least a two-hour drive from where you started; no public transportation is available. For more information on planning this hike please speak with park staff. |
| |  | | | Facilities: There are no facilities available on Kaupo Gap Trail. Reservations: Reservations are not needed or accepted for Kaupo Gap Trail. Best Time To Visit: Kaupo Gap Trail is open year round. Fees: Unknown Accessibility: This trail is not handicap accessible. Rules: Please stop by a visitor center to pickup a free trail map and check on current conditions before heading out. Stay on designated trails.Pack out all trash.Please respect all wildlife and cultural artifacts.Honor other visitors' need for solitude.Do not drink untreated water.Open fires are prohibited due to high fire danger.No firearms or fireworks.Bikes are not allowed on park trails.No pets.Group size is limited to 12 persons.Directions: Kaupo Gap Trail is located within the Haleakala National Park. To reach Haleakala National Park from Kahului, take roads 37, 377, and 378. Follow the signs posted along the Highway. The Summit area of Haleakala is a three hour round trip drive from Kahului. Follow the signs posted along the Highway.To reach Haleakala National Park from Makawao, take Highway 365 to Highway 37. From 37 turn onto 377 and from 377 take 378 to the park. | | |
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| | | | Address | | National Park Service - Haleakala National Park | | P.O. Box 369 | | Makawao, Maui, Hawaii 96768 |
| | | Phone | | General: (808) 572-4400 | |
| | | | | Website | | Email |
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