Haleakala Sunrise to Paia: 26-Mile Downhill Bike Tour on Maui
Watch sunrise from Haleakala’s 10,023-foot summit, then descend 26 miles by bike to the seaside town of Paia. This full-morning tour combines lunar summit views, 29 switchbacks and a coastal finish—great for intermediate riders who want a gravity-fed Maui experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for extremes
Temperatures can range from near-freezing at the summit to hot and humid in Paia—wear removable layers to stay comfortable the whole ride.
Brake check and stance
Practice controlled braking and a slightly rear-weighted stance before committing to speed on switchbacks to avoid overheating rims or skidding.
Hydrate early
Drink water before the van leaves and carry an extra bottle—altitude dehydrates quickly and the descent still demands alertness.
Sun protection
High-elevation UV is intense even at sunrise—use broad-spectrum sunscreen and polarized sunglasses for both comfort and safety.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stop in Makawao on the way back for local art galleries and pies
- •Mid-descent pullouts offer views of both north and south coasts—bring a wide-angle lens
Wildlife
- •Nene (Hawaiian goose) in higher dry shrublands
- •Hawaiian hoary bat occasionally at dusk
Conservation Note
The fragile summit ecology is sensitive to foot traffic and alien plants—stay on paved surfaces and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
Haleakala has long cultural significance to native Hawaiians and the summit area was historically set aside under kapu; later it became a ranching and observatory landscape before park designation.
Photographer's Notes
- • Summit crater rim for sunrise panoramas
- • Switchback pullouts for bi-coastal views
- • Final approach into Paia for surf-and-town contrast
What to Bring
Layered windproof jacketEssential
Keeps you warm at the summit and is easy to stow for the warmer descent.
Closed-toe shoes with gripEssential
Stable footwear improves control and pedaling while mounting and dismounting the cruiser bike.
Sunscreen & polarized sunglassesEssential
High-altitude sun and glare on winding roads make protection essential.
Small hydration pack or extra water bottleEssential
Supplement provided bottled water for the morning and the warm lower-elevation ride.
Common Questions
How long is the bike ride?
The downhill portion covers about 26 miles from the Haleakala staging area down to Paia, with most of the route on paved roads and many switchbacks.
Do I need to be an expert cyclist?
No, but you should be comfortable braking and cornering; beginners and very timid riders are not recommended for safety reasons.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers—warm clothes for the summit and lighter gear for the coast; closed-toe shoes are required.
Is bike and helmet provided?
Yes—Mountain Riders supplies chrome cruiser bikes and helmets as part of the tour inclusions.
How early is the start time?
Expect pre-dawn meeting in Paia to allow time to drive to the summit for sunrise; the whole experience runs roughly 6–8 hours.
What are the age and weight limits?
Riders must be at least 15 years old, at least 5 feet tall, and weigh no more than 280 lbs.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–8 hours
Location
Paia, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate cardiovascular fitness; must be comfortable controlling speed and braking on long descents
Ready to Explore Paia?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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