HALEAKALA ATV TOURS

What’s hot and exciting in the cool Upcountry mists? All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) tours. Now you can experience the premiere ATV activity on Maui with Haleakala ATV Tours.
Haleakala Ranch,which is located at the heart of the Haleakala volcano land mass, consists of 30,000 acres of spectacular scenery, indigenous rain forests, ecological preserves, and a working cattle ranch. The ranch shareholders have made much of this natural beauty accessible to the public through Haleakala ATV Tours. Hawaiian cowboys (paniolos) have used ATVs for years in their ranch work, so an ATV tour is a natural fit here.

The Haleakala ATV Tour is a real adventure for those who want to get off the beaten path and see a part of Maui few people even know about. Hawaii’s diverse climate adds a unique atmosphere to each tour, which is equally enjoyable on crystal clear mornings or rainy afternoons.

At the beginning of each tour, the necessary gear is issued. Knowledgeable guides then instruct guests on safety and operation of the ATV. Guests drive Honda Rancher 350cc 4x4 ATVs, which are very stable and comfortable for both first-time and experienced riders. A well laid out practice area gives a good idea of what the actual trail will be like; then the journey begins.

From start to finish, the track is both challenging and exciting. Rocky terrain, wild pig ruts, rain-filled gullies and steep climbs make for an unforgettable ride. Along the trail, you’ll learn about Maui’s endemic ‘apapane birds, blooming ‘ohi‘a and koa trees, thick ‘ama‘u ferns and much more.

The adventure continues higher into the rainforest, close to the border of Haleakala’s stunning Waikamoi Preserve. A stop in the ‘Ukulele Forest (named after ‘Ukulele Camp where paniolos once lived) is one of those experiences not soon forgotten. A tent and picnic table are set amid the towering trees for a picturesque view.

This is one of the rare places where you can see native trees and ferns in their natural environment much as they were over 1000 years ago. After lunch, guests receive an introduction to the island’s unique ecosystem as they’re guided on a short walk around the area. Haleakala Ranch has created a partnership with The Nature Conservancy of Hawai‘i to protect and preserve this special land.

Four tours are offered daily. The 3 hour tours, which includes going to the edge of the rainforest, leave at 8:30am and 12:30pm. Two-hour tours, which explore the ranch in a 6- to 7-mile loop, are offered at 9am and 2pm. Private guided tours are the way to go for those who would like an adventure customized to their riding ability and with lots of open space to themselves.

ATV drivers must be at least 16 years old. Guests between the ages of 5 -15 and those who prefer to be driven can ride in our four-wheel drive Jeep Wrangler piloted by one of our guides. Tours are not recommended for those with heart or back problems or for pregnant women. Closed-toe shoes are required and dressing in layers is a good idea. Look for the red barn-style building 2-1/2 miles up Hwy. 378, and get the adventure of a lifetime! Call toll-free, 1-877-661-0288, or visit www.atvmaui.com. When you book a 3 hour tour, mention that you saw this ad in Best of Maui, and you’ll receive $20 off per couple.