The first part of the journey is the drive to
the volcano itself, a twisty, 30 miles trip through ranchland. This
drive through upcountry Maui to Haleakala is a great roadtrip
experience. The road climbs quickly, a total altitude gain of
10000 feet (3000 meters) and soon you'll find yourself above
the clouds, looking down on fields and beaches. The road to the
top travels through numerous climates, which are surprisingly
sharply defined: open forest, grasslands, desert, and seemingly
barren volcanic ground. You will see numerous signs telling
motorists to watch out for cyclists, which use this road to come
down from the summit. After you passed the park entrance you'll
see signs advising you to watch for Nene birds crossing the road.
