Haleakalā National Park Releases New Backcountry Preparedness Video

Haleakala image courtesy Krannichfeld Photography.

A new backcountry preparedness video has been developed by Haleakalā National Park field staff and released this week. The goal of the video is to better prepare visitors for the changeable weather, rugged terrain and isolation of Haleakalā Crater, which is visited by thousands of hikers and over 6,000 campers every year.

The National Park Service recommends that all visitors planning a backcountry trip view this four-minute informational video. In the video, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, bring appropriate clothing and supplies, and prepare for emergencies.

“We want visitors to enjoy themselves in Haleakalā’s beautiful backcountry,” said park Superintendent Natalie Gates. “Unfortunately, newcomers to the Crater as well as ‘old hands’ can get into trouble if they don’t prepare adequately,” she said.

Haleakalā National Park contains 24,719 acres of wilderness to explore over 30 miles of trail, with two designated campsites and three rustic backcountry cabins available by reservation.

All backcountry campers must obtain a backcountry permit. For more information, visit the park’s website.