Trail Run Down into the Haleakala Crater on Maui! - YouTube - Vo2maxProductions

Aug 13, 2025

Intro

This is a quick summary of “Trail Run Down into the Haleakala Crater on Maui!” from Vo2maxProductions. It’s a great watch — we’re breaking it down so you can try the run today. Be sure to check out the full video for all the details.

Key Points

High‑altitude volcanic terrain: The trail starts at the summit (around 8,000 ft) and descends into the crater, offering a mix of volcanic sand, dry desert climate, and lush micro‑climates lower down.
Variable distance & elevation: About a ½ mile from the visitor center to the trailhead, then roughly 2–3 miles (≈3–5 km) of downhill running before reaching the crater floor.
Temperature shift: Cold, windy conditions at the top; warm, sunny, and sheltered once you’re down in the crater.
Technical sections: Some sand and rocky parts require careful foot placement, especially on the “sliding sands” portion.
Logistics: Limited parking, bring plenty of water, and be prepared for a challenging elevation gain on the way back up.

Workout Example

Treat the descent as a 3‑mile (≈5 km) downhill run:

Warm‑up: Easy jog or brisk walk for 0.5 mi on flat ground near the visitor center.
Main set: Run the Sliding Sands Trail down into the crater (≈2.5‑3 mi). Keep effort comfortable—focus on smooth downhill mechanics and enjoy the changing scenery.
Cool‑down: Light jog or walk for 0.5 mi at the crater floor before heading back up or to your car. Tip: Adjust the distances to match your fitness level and use the Pacing app to set target paces based on effort rather than exact speed, especially on technical terrain.

Closing Note

Give this volcanic descent a try on your next adventure—customise the mileage and effort to fit your own training plan, and log it in the Pacing app. Enjoy the unique landscapes of Haleakala and keep exploring new trails! 🚀