Haleakalā Turns 99, Free Entry Aug. 25

Park entrance fee station. File photo courtesy Haleakalā National Park.

By Maui Now Staff

Entrance fees to Haleakalā National Park will be waived on Tuesday, Aug. 25 in celebration of the 99 year anniversary of the park and the National Park Service.

Activities will also be offered at the park’s visitor centers to celebrate both birthdays.

On Aug. 1, 1916 Congress established Haleakalā National Park; and on Aug. 25, 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed legislation to create the National Park Service.

Today, there are 408 national parks throughout the country.

“Haleakalā NP was established to preserve unique Native Hawaiian natural and cultural resources. Some of these resources, like the Haleakalā `āhinahina or silversword, are found nowhere else on earth,” said Superintendent Natalie Gates in a park announcement. “We encourage residents and visitors alike to explore the park and discover these treasures, especially as we prepare to celebrate these two important Centennials.”

The National Park Service also invites the public to discover everything a park experience can be, through a fun list of 99 ways to Find Your Park.