Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park are two of the most iconic national parks in the United States. Both are known for their breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique geological features, but which one is the better choice for your next outdoor adventure? In this article, we will compare these two parks and help you decide which one is right for you.
Yellowstone, established in 1872, is often referred to as the first national park in the world and covers over 2.2 million acres in three states. It is home to the famous Old Faithful geyser and an array of wildlife, such as bison, elk, and wolves.
On the other hand, Haleakalā National Park, located on the Hawaiian island of Maui, was established in 1916 and covers an area of over 33,000 acres. It is known for its unique volcanic landscapes, including the massive crater of the dormant Haleakalā volcano, as well as its diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush rainforests to barren deserts.
So, are you ready to discover the differences between these two national parks and decide which one is right for you? Keep reading to find out!
Hiking Trails in Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park
Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the U.S. Both are known for their spectacular hiking trails, but they offer different experiences.
One of the easiest hikes at Haleakalā is the Sliding Sands Trail, which is a 3-mile round trip that leads through a unique volcanic landscape. The trail offers breathtaking views of the park’s valleys and craters. On the other hand, the hardest hike is the Halemau’u Trail, which is an 8.5-mile round trip and has a steep ascent to the summit of the volcano.
In Yellowstone, the easiest hike is the Uncle Tom’s Trail, which is a short 0.6-mile round trip that leads to the bottom of the 308-foot Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River. The toughest hike is the Snow Pass Trail, which is a strenuous 13-mile round trip that takes you through the heart of the park’s backcountry.
Both parks offer a diverse range of hiking experiences, from easy walks to challenging treks. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll or a strenuous workout, there’s a trail for you at Haleakalā or Yellowstone.
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 Yellowstone National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mystic Falls, Fairy Creek and Little Firehole Loop | 5632.69 | 184.7088 | Moderate | loop | 4.5 |
| Grand Prismatic Hot Spring | 2574.944 | 60.96 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
| Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop | 7242.03 | 73.7616 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Canyon Rim North Trail to Inspiration Point | 12713.786 | 349.9104 | Moderate | out and back | 4 |
| West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail | 1609.34 | 17.9832 | Easy | loop | 4 |
| Mammoth Hot Springs Area Trail | 5632.69 | 170.9928 | Easy | loop | 4 |
| Artists Paintpots Trail | 1609.34 | 30.7848 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Avalanche Peak Trail | 7402.964 | 614.7816 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| Old Faithful Geyser Loop Trail | 1126.538 | 4.8768 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Upper Falls, Lower Falls and Crystal Falls Trail | 6115.492 | 140.8176 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
Wildlife in Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park
Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the United States, both offering unique wildlife experiences. At Haleakalā, visitors can see a variety of endemic species, including the Hawaiian goose, the nene, and the Hawaiian petrel. The park is also home to numerous species of native plants, including the silversword and the Hawaiian hibiscus. In addition, visitors may also encounter feral animals such as pigs and goats, which were introduced by early settlers.
Yellowstone, on the other hand, is known for its large mammals, including bison, elk, and wolves. The park is also home to numerous species of birds, including bald eagles and ospreys, as well as a variety of reptiles and fish. Visitors may also encounter species such as the American black bear, the mountain lion, and the pronghorn antelope. In addition to its diverse wildlife, Yellowstone is also home to a variety of unique geysers and hot springs, making it a popular destination for geothermal enthusiasts.
Whether you’re interested in birdwatching, wildlife photography, or simply observing the natural beauty of these parks, both Haleakalā and Yellowstone offer something for everyone. With their diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences, both parks are must-visit destinations for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
| Haleakalā National Park | Yellowstone 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 | Northern Flicker |
| 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 |
Mammals
| Haleakalā National Park | Yellowstone 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 | |
| Mountain Lion | |
| Mink | |
| Mule Deer | |
| Wolf | |
| Long-Legged Myotis | |
| Long-Eared Myotis | |
| Badger | |
| Short Tailed Weasel | |
| California Myotis |
Amphibians
| Haleakalā National Park | Yellowstone National Park |
|---|---|
| Bullfrog | Northern Leopard Frog |
| Bullfrog | |
| Woodhouse’s Toad | |
| Plains Spadefoot |
Insects
| Haleakalā National Park | Yellowstone National Park |
|---|---|
| Painted Lady | Orange Sulphur |
| Monarch Butterfly | Painted Lady |
| American Painted Lady | Monarch |
| Cabbage White | American Painted Lady |
| Honey Bee | Red Admiral |
| Mourning Cloak | |
| Silvery Blue | |
| Common Checkered Skipper | |
| Common Sulphur | |
| Variegated Fritillary | |
| Commom Wood Nymph | |
| Purplish Copper | |
| Anise Swallowtail |
Fish
| Haleakalā National Park | Yellowstone National Park |
|---|---|
| Rainbow Trout | |
| Brook Trout | |
| Brown Trout | |
| Longnose Sucker | |
| Lake Trout | |
| Mottled Sculpin | |
| Longnose Dace | |
| Speckled Dace | |
| Arctic Grayling |
Reptiles
| Haleakalā National Park | Yellowstone National Park |
|---|---|
| Racer | |
| Greater Short-Horned Lizard | |
| Rubber Boa |
Beautiful Landscapes in Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park
Haleakalā National Park, located in Hawaii, is known for its breathtaking sunrise views from the summit of its dormant volcano. The summit offers panoramic views of the lush forests and rugged landscapes of the island of Maui. A visit to the park also includes exploring its unique ecosystem, including rare endemic species of plants and animals.
Yellowstone National Park, located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, is home to some of the most famous landscapes in the United States, including the iconic Old Faithful geyser. The park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bison, wolves, and grizzly bears. Visitors can explore the park’s geothermal features, such as hot springs and geysers, as well as its scenic mountain ranges and valleys.
Both parks offer unforgettable experiences for nature lovers, but each park has its own unique character and beauty. Whether you are interested in exploring volcanic landscapes or taking in the breathtaking views of geysers and hot springs, both Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park have something to offer.
Things To-Do and Activities in Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park
Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year. While they are both known for their stunning natural beauty and rich wildlife, there are some key differences in the activities that visitors enjoy most at these parks.
Haleakalā National Park, located in Maui, Hawaii, is known for its stunning sunrises, which are best viewed from the top of the park’s 10,023-foot summit. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives, wildlife watching, and stargazing. There are also several cultural and historical sites within the park, including Hawaiian petroglyphs and ancient trails.
Yellowstone National Park, located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, is known for its geothermal activity, including geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pots. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives, wildlife watching, and fishing in the park’s many rivers and streams. There are also several historic buildings and museums within the park, including the Old Faithful Inn and the Lamar Buffalo Ranch.
In both parks, visitors can also enjoy camping, picnicking, and ranger-led programs. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape in nature or an action-packed adventure, both Haleakalā and Yellowstone offer a wide range of activities to suit all interests and abilities.
Best Time to Visit Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park
Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park are both popular tourist destinations, but the weather in these parks can vary greatly.
Haleakalā National Park, located in Maui, Hawaii has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Winter temperatures average between 60-70°F, while summer temperatures can reach into the 80s. The park experiences occasional rain, but it is less likely to be a factor during the summer months.
Yellowstone National Park, located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, has a much colder climate. Summer temperatures average in the 60s and 70s°F, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing. The park experiences heavy snowfall during the winter months and can be accessible only by snowmobile.
Visitors to Haleakalā should plan their trip for the summer months to take advantage of the warm weather and low likelihood of rain. Visitors to Yellowstone should plan their trip for the summer months to take advantage of the warmer weather and accessibility to park roads and attractions, but winter visitors can enjoy unique snow-covered landscapes and winter activities.
Family Friendliness of Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park
Haleakalā National Park and Yellowstone National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the United States. Both offer a wealth of outdoor activities and opportunities to enjoy nature, but which park is better for families traveling with children?
In terms of family-friendliness, Yellowstone National Park has the edge over Haleakalā National Park. Yellowstone has a number of attractions specifically aimed at families with young children, including the Junior Ranger program and the Children’s Fire and Fossil Discovery Center. It also has ample camping options, some with family-friendly amenities such as showers and laundry facilities. In addition, the park has a number of educational programs and ranger-led activities that are tailored to families.
Haleakalā National Park, on the other hand, is a bit more rugged and less developed than Yellowstone. While it does offer scenic hiking trails and stunning views, it may not be as well-suited for families with young children. The park has limited camping options, and some of its trails may be too strenuous for young children. Additionally, there are no specific children’s activities or programs offered at the park.
Overall, if you’re traveling with children, Yellowstone National Park is the better choice. With its well-developed infrastructure and family-friendly attractions, it offers a more enjoyable experience for families. However, if you’re looking for a more rugged, back-to-nature experience, Haleakalā National Park is still a beautiful place to visit.