Free Entry to Haleakalā for 98th Birthday of Park Service

Haleakalā National Park sign. Photo by Wendy Osher.

By Maui Now Staff

Haleakalā National Park will celebrate the 98th birthday of the National Park Service by waiving its normal entrance fee of $10 on Monday, Aug. 25, 2014.

“Haleakalā NP was established in 1916 to preserve unique natural and cultural resources. Some of these resources, like the Haleakalā `āhinahina (silversword), are found nowhere else on earth,” said Superintendent Natalie Gates in a press release announcement. “We encourage residents and visitors alike to explore the park and discover these treasures.”

1961 Haleakala dedication as a separate NPS unit: Haleakala NP became a separate NP on July 1, 1961. Courtesy photo.

Park officials note that in 1872, Yellowstone National Park was established as the world’s first national park.

According to park staff, there were 37 national parks in the United States when President Woodrow Wilson signed legislation to create the National Park Service on Aug. 25, 1916.

Officials at Haleakalā National Park say that last year alone, more than 785,000 park visitors enjoyed Haleakalā NP, added $47 million to the local economy, and supported 536 area jobs.