Visitors Welcome Sunrise as Haleakalā Park Reopens

Haleakalā sunrise. File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

Haleakalā National Park on Maui reopened today after being closed for more than two weeks due to the federal lapse in appropriations.

Park officials say staff took immediate steps to reopen the park for sunrise today after the bill was signed into law last night.

“We’re thrilled to be open again,” said park superintendent Natalie Gates in a National Park Service press release.

“We look forward to people enjoying and exploring the park again and we thank our visitors, communities, and commercial service providers for their continued patience over the past two weeks,” she said.

Sunrise at Haleakalā, Oct. 17, 2013. Photo courtesy Haleakalā National Park.

In addition to the popular summit destination for sunrise viewing, all roads, restrooms, and trails are also open.

Park officials say all visitor centers opened by 9 a.m. today, and campgrounds will reopen by this afternoon, after they have been mowed.

“The pools at ʻOheʻo, which are prone to flash flooding, will be monitored again and opened as safe water levels permit,” officials said.

Haleakalā National Park has been closed to the public since Oct. 1, resulting in a projected monetary loss of $6,800 per day in entrance fees.

Officials say visitors can expect limited services over the next 24 to 48 hours, as the park resumes normal staffing levels.