“Are you torn between visiting a national park with otherworldly landscapes or one with rugged mountain terrain? Look no further! In this article, we compare two breathtaking national parks: Haleakalā National Park and North Cascades National Park.
Haleakalā, located on the Hawaiian island of Maui, is a volcanic wonderland with a summit that rises 10,023 feet above sea level. Its unique landscapes, including cinder cones and volcanic craters, will have you feeling like you’ve landed on another planet.
On the other hand, North Cascades National Park in Washington State boasts towering peaks and glaciers that will leave you in awe. With over 300 glaciers and numerous alpine lakes, this park is a hiker’s paradise.
So, which one of these national parks should you visit first? Read on to find out!”
Hiking Trails in Haleakalā National Park and North Cascades National Park
Haleakalā National Park and North Cascades National Park are two diverse parks with unique hiking experiences. Haleakalā is located on the Hawaiian island of Maui, and features a volcanic landscape with diverse vegetation, including rare and endemic species. North Cascades is located in Washington state and boasts a rugged, alpine environment with glaciers, lakes, and dense forests.
For those looking for an easy hike, both parks offer several trails. At Haleakalā, the Sliding Sands trail is a popular choice, offering stunning views of the crater and its unique ecosystem. At North Cascades, the Thunder Creek trail is a gentle hike that leads to waterfalls and scenic views.
For those seeking a more strenuous adventure, both parks also have several challenging hikes. At Haleakalā, the Halemau’u trail is a challenging hike that takes you to the summit of the park, with an elevation gain of over 2,500 feet. The Sahale Arm trail in North Cascades is a strenuous hike that takes you to the top of the Sahale Mountain with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Whether you’re looking for an easy or challenging hike, both Haleakalā National Park and North Cascades National Park offer unique and diverse hiking experiences. With their diverse landscapes and varying levels of difficulty, both parks are sure to provide a memorable and rewarding hiking experience.
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Haleakalā National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls | 5471.756 | 249.936 | Moderate | out and back | 5 |
| Sliding Sands Trail | 17702.74 | 851.916 | Very Hard | out and back | 4.5 |
| Seven Sacred Pools Trail (‘Ohe’o Gulch) | 965.604 | 32.9184 | Easy | loop | 4 |
| Halalai’i and Pu’unaue Trail | 20116.75 | 978.7128 | Hard | loop | 5 |
| Halemau’u Haleakala Overlook Trail | 12230.984 | 723.9 | Hard | out and back | 4.5 |
| Haleakala Crater Trail | 18024.608 | 930.8592 | Hard | point to point | 5 |
| Pa Ka’oao Trail | 965.604 | 40.8432 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
| Leleiwi Overlook Trail | 482.802 | 30.7848 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
| Pa ka’oao Trail (White Hill Trail) | 804.67 | 32.9184 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
| Silversword Loop Via Halemau’u Trail | 20116.75 | 1105.8144 | Hard | loop | 4.5 |
Most Popular Hiking Trails in North Cascades National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Lake Trail | 8529.502 | 291.9984 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm Trail | 17541.806 | 1175.9184 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| Sourdough Mountain Trail | 14644.994 | 1555.6992 | Hard | out and back | 4.5 |
| Cascade Pass Trail to Cottonwood Camp | 25588.506 | 1422.8064 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| Cascade Pass Trail | 10460.71 | 542.8488 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| Sahale Arm Trail to Quien Sabe Glacier | 19955.816 | 1651.7112 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| Trail of the Cedars Nature Walk | 3057.746 | 21.9456 | Easy | loop | 4 |
| Fourth of July Pass via Panther Creek Trail | 14966.862 | 759.8664 | Moderate | out and back | 4 |
| Ruby Mountain Summit via Fourth of July and Thunder Creek Trail | 23335.43 | 1949.8056 | Hard | out and back | 4 |
| Gorge Creek Falls Trail | 804.67 | 11.8872 | Easy | loop | 3.5 |
Wildlife in Haleakalā National Park and North Cascades National Park
Haleakalā National Park, located on Maui, Hawaii, is known for its diverse and endemic wildlife. Visitors to the park can expect to see a variety of bird species, including nene geese, Hawaiian honeycreepers, and Hawaiian crows. The park is also home to several species of endemic mammals, including the Hawaiian hoary bat, Hawaiian monk seal, and the Hawaiian spotted skunk. In addition to its unique wildlife, Haleakalā also boasts a rich array of flora, including endemic silversword plants and native forests of ohia and koa trees.
North Cascades National Park, located in Washington State, is known for its diverse and abundant wildlife. The park is home to a variety of mammals, including black bears, mountain lions, and elk. Visitors may also spot a variety of bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and many species of songbirds. In addition to its abundant wildlife, North Cascades is also home to a rich array of plant life, including Douglas firs, western red cedars, and Pacific yews.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at Haleakalā National Park and North Cascades National Park. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
| Haleakalā National Park | North Cascades National Park |
|---|---|
| Peregrine Falcon | Peregrine Falcon |
| Northern Harrier | Northern Harrier |
| Rock Pigeon | Sharp-Shinned Hawk |
| House Sparrow | Osprey |
| Northern Mockingbird | Tree Swallow |
| Black-Crowned Night-Heron | Mallard |
| Barn Owl | Canada Goose |
| Cattle Egret | Lincoln’s Sparrow |
| Ring-Necked Pheasant | Ruby-Crowned Kinglet |
| Chukar | American Robin |
| Ruddy Turnstone | Great Horned Owl |
| Northern Cardinal | Red-Tailed Hawk |
| California Quail | Merlin |
| Barn Swallow | |
| Savannah Sparrow | |
| Great Blue Heron | |
| Hermit Thrush | |
| American Kestrel | |
| Bald Eagle | |
| Song Sparrow | |
| European Starling | |
| Northern Pintail | |
| American Wigeon | |
| Green-Winged Teal | |
| American Pipit |
Mammals
| Haleakalā National Park | North Cascades National Park |
|---|---|
| House Mouse | Coyote |
| Norway Rat | American Beaver |
| Black Rat | Muskrat |
| Domestic Cattle | Big Brown Bat |
| Feral Hog | Bobcat |
| Striped Skunk | |
| Little Brown Bat | |
| Deer Mouse | |
| Raccoon | |
| Black Bear | |
| Porcupine | |
| Silver-Haired Bat | |
| Hoary Bat | |
| Red Fox | |
| Long-Tailed Weasel | |
| House Mouse | |
| Puma | |
| Mink | |
| Black-Tailed Deer | |
| Wolf | |
| Long-Legged Myotis | |
| Western Long-Eared Bat | |
| Ermine | |
| California Myotis | |
| Snowshoe Hare |
Amphibians
| Haleakalā National Park | North Cascades National Park |
|---|---|
| Bullfrog |
Insects
| Haleakalā National Park | North Cascades National Park |
|---|---|
| Painted Lady | Orange Sulphur |
| Monarch Butterfly | Painted Lady |
| American Painted Lady | Red Admiral |
| Cabbage White | Mourning Cloak |
| Honey Bee | Silvery Blue |
| Clouded Sulphur | |
| Honey Bee | |
| Purplish Copper | |
| Anise Swallowtail |
Fish
| Haleakalā National Park | North Cascades National Park |
|---|---|
| Redband Trout | |
| Brook Trout | |
| Largemouth Bass | |
| Longnose Sucker | |
| Lake Trout | |
| Burbot | |
| Silver Salmon | |
| King Salmon | |
| Slimy Sculpin | |
| Longnose Dace | |
| Threespine Stickleback | |
| Kokanee | |
| Pink Salmon | |
| Chum Salmon | |
| Dolly Varden | |
| Cutthroat Trout |
Reptiles
| Haleakalā National Park | North Cascades National Park |
|---|---|
| Western Terrestrial Garter Snake | |
| Western Yellowbelly Racer | |
| Prairie Rattlesnake | |
| Common Garter Snake | |
| Rubber Boa | |
| Western Fence Lizard |
Beautiful Landscapes in Haleakalā National Park and North Cascades National Park
Haleakalā National Park, located in Maui, Hawaii, is best known for its massive shield volcano and its stunning sunrise views from the summit of the volcano. The park also features a unique landscape of volcanic cinder cones, deserts, and lush rainforests. Hiking trails offer the chance to explore the diverse terrain, while scenic drives provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
North Cascades National Park, in Washington State, is home to some of the most rugged and beautiful mountain landscapes in the country. The park is home to nearly 500 glaciers and boasts stunning views of jagged peaks, deep valleys, and pristine alpine lakes. The park is also a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and backpacking, with trails that lead to breathtaking overlooks and scenic waterfalls. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor adventurer or just looking for a scenic drive, North Cascades National Park has something for everyone.
Things To-Do and Activities in Haleakalā National Park and North Cascades National Park
Haleakalā National Park in Hawaii and North Cascades National Park in Washington State offer a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Both parks are popular for hiking, but Haleakalā is also famous for its stunning sunrise and sunset views from the summit of its dormant volcano. In addition, visitors can take a scenic drive through the park, go stargazing, and take part in ranger-led programs.
In contrast, North Cascades National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities. Popular activities include rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park is also home to numerous glaciers and crystal-clear lakes, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers. In the winter months, the park is popular for snowboarding, skiing and snowshoeing.
Whether you prefer a relaxing scenic drive or a challenging hike, both parks have something to offer. However, if you are looking for a more laid-back experience, then Haleakalā might be the better choice, while North Cascades is ideal for those who enjoy more physically demanding activities and the challenge of the great outdoors.
Best Time to Visit Haleakalā National Park and North Cascades National Park
Haleakalā National Park, located on the Hawaiian island of Maui, and North Cascades National Park, in Washington state, are two unique and beautiful national parks. The seasonal weather at each park can greatly affect the best time of year to visit.
At Haleakalā National Park, temperatures range from 60-80°F year-round, with the warmest months being July through October. Winter months can bring rain and clouds, making it difficult to see the park’s famous sunrise. On the other hand, summer months offer clear skies for optimal viewing.
At North Cascades National Park, temperatures vary greatly depending on the time of year. Summer temperatures range from 50-70°F, while winter temperatures can drop to below freezing. The park also receives significant snowfall during the winter months, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Summer months provide the best conditions for hiking and backpacking, with clear, dry trails.
In conclusion, both Haleakalā National Park and North Cascades National Park offer unique and beautiful experiences, with different ideal times to visit depending on the weather. If you’re looking for clear skies and warm temperatures, Haleakalā National Park is best visited during the summer months. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a winter wonderland, North Cascades National Park is the place to be during the colder months.
Family Friendliness of Haleakalā National Park and North Cascades National Park
Haleakalā National Park in Hawaii and North Cascades National Park in Washington are two of the most beautiful national parks in the United States. Both parks offer a unique and diverse landscape for visitors to explore, but they differ in terms of family-friendliness.
Haleakalā National Park is an excellent choice for families traveling with children. The park offers several easy hiking trails, including a scenic drive to the summit of the volcano, where visitors can learn about the natural history of the area and take in stunning views. The park also offers ranger-led programs and educational activities for children, making it a fun and educational experience for families.
North Cascades National Park is a more rugged and challenging park, with steep terrain and limited access. While the park offers some incredible natural beauty, it may not be the best choice for families with young children. The park is better suited for those who are experienced hikers and enjoy a more strenuous outdoor experience. However, it still offers plenty of opportunities for families to explore and learn about the unique environment of the Pacific Northwest.
In conclusion, Haleakalā National Park is the better choice for families traveling with children. It provides a fun and educational experience for all ages, while still offering breathtaking natural beauty. North Cascades National Park is better suited for experienced hikers and those seeking a more challenging outdoor experience.