Adventure Collective
null - Kahului

Haleakala Downhill Self-Guided Bike Tour

Paiamoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be in good physical condition and comfortable riding for several hours downhill.

Overview

Discover the thrill of descending Haleakala on a self-guided bike tour in Maui. Enjoy breathtaking views, scenic landscapes, and the freedom of exploring at your own pace in this unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Bike Tour
Paia, Hawaii

Haleakala Downhill Self-Guided Bike Tour

From the Mountain to the Sea • 5 Hours • Ages 15+

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Adventure Photos

Haleakala Downhill Self-Guided Bike Tour photo 1

About This Adventure

Haleakala Downhill - From the Mountain to the Sea

Estimated Bike Ride Times:

This ride is self-guided, and at your own pace. After our 45-min drive up to the staging area at 6,500', you will begin your bike ride. The average ride start time is 10:30am. Bikes must be returned by 1:30pm.

Total Duration

5 Hours

About

Maui Sunriders offers the best Self-Guided Haleakala Downhill Bike Tour on Maui. This will be the easiest most picturesque bike ride you'll ever experience as it's almost entirely downhill. There are photo opportunities at almost every turn in the road with sweeping vistas of the slopes of Haleakala and the coast below.

We meet at Maui Sunriders bike shop in Paia on the north shore by 8:45am. After we outfit you with your gear and provide our safety briefing, you will enjoy a narrated van tour as you’re driven up Haleakala on the same route you’ll bike down! Your guide will point out the local history, points of interest, and suggestions for places to visit.

The bike ride begins at approximately 6,500 feet right outside the National Park entrance, where all bike operators on Maui begin their rides. You will get to enjoy this self-guided classic route from the mountain to the sea, back to our bike shop in Paia.

Explore beautiful upcountry Maui on a bike! Smell the eucalyptus and lavender, feel the cool breeze and warm sun, and soak in the beautiful views of Maui. With our self-paced Haleakala downhill bike ride, you have the freedom to stay in your comfort zone and make stops as you'd like. Enjoy the beauty of Haleakala!

Experience why visitors & locals love Maui Sunriders and the self-guided bike ride coming down Haleakala. Our guests support local businesses along the route, and the self-paced nature of the ride means we don’t impede and frustrate the local traffic as a large, guided group might.

This tour includes roadside assistance, so while we aren’t tailing right behind you, rest assured we are a quick phone call away and on the mountain ready to assist you.

Equipment: Maui Sunriders provides Front-Suspension Single-Speed Mountain Bikes with disc brakes (the perfect bike for a ride that is 98% downhill), Bell downhill full-face helmets & optional Scott light-weight bike helmets for experienced riders, Trespass (European) rain & wind gear, cold-weather gloves and a backpack which includes a lock and weatherproof road map with road safety rules.

Suggestions:

  • Dress in light layers, temps at 6500’ are often in the mid to low 60’s, occasionally high 50’s.
  • Wear closed-toe shoes
  • Bring Sunglasses
  • Bring Sunscreen
  • Bring $ for meal stop & possible shopping
  • Bring Camera
  • Tips are greatly appreciated and fully at your discretion, based on the overall experience provided by our team

Food: Meals aren’t provided on this Maui bike tour. Bring cash for food and shopping. We sell water, cold coffee, energy drinks, teas, sodas & energy ride food in our bike shop.

Guidelines: Minimum Age 15 years old

  • Please only sign your child up if you fully understand the ability level & experience required for this bike ride and are confident in their abilities.
  • Minimum Height 4′ 11′
  • Parent or Guardian must accompany riders under 18 years old
  • No expecting mothers
  • No Beginner Bike Riders, Must be a competent bike rider
  • Maximum Weight 300
  • Bikes must be returned by 1:30pm
  • 48 hour cancellation policy

*Safety: You are riding on country roads and sharing the road with cars. There are switchbacks and turns that you need to navigate turns safely and stay on the right side of the lane/shoulder. This ride is 98% downhill with an average grade of 5% decline. This isn't the same as trail riding or riding on a bike path. Due to the downhill momentum, it is important to be an EXPERIENCED and CONFIDENT cyclist and have experience using disc brakes on a bike.

Adventure Tips

Start Early in the Morning

Beginning your ride early helps avoid afternoon crowds and captures the best morning light for photos.

Use Sunscreen and Wear Layers

The mountain climate can vary; dressing in layers and applying sunscreen ensures comfort throughout the ride.

Check Your Bike Before Departing

Ensure brakes, tires, and gears are in top condition for safety and optimal performance during the descent.

Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks

Drink plenty of water and rest at designated viewpoints to enjoy the scenery and prevent fatigue.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Hawaiian coots
  • Monk seals along the coast

History

Haleakala means 'house of the sun' in Hawaiian, and the mountain is sacred in local Hawaiian culture, known for its volcanic origins and native legends.

Conservation

Maui Sunriders Bike Company emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including responsible trail use and supporting local conservation efforts.

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Adventure Hotspots in Kahului

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Helmet

Essential

Protect your head during the ride with a well-fitting helmet.

Layered clothing

Essential

Wear adaptable layers to stay comfortable as temperatures change throughout the day.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Sunglasses

Protect your eyes from glare and UV rays while enjoying scenic views.

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during your descent with a accessible water source.