Born to Climb: Conquering the mighty Haleakala Volcano in Maui

Distance: 55,2 km / 35 miles

Location: Maui Island, Hawaii

Avg. grade: 5.3 %

Maximum: 12 %

Elevation: 3,037 m (9,963 ft)

Ascent: 2,959 m (9,708 ft)

At the first glance, judging by what the numbers seem to indicate, one might be easily tricked into thinking 'With 5% avg. grade, what is all the fuss about?'. But there is always more than meets the eye.

Haleakala is a uniquely challenging climb for so many reasons. As mentioned, it has a 5.5% avg. grade, but even this grade becomes hard to take when there are no flat parts and the only thing you do is climb and climb some more. It's well know that many riders tried to conquer it and many of them saw themselves in the situation of turning back.

The switchbacks. Haleakala is well known for its switchbacks. After about 1000m elevation and 34 km, they start to emerge just around the corner, and then another one right after the next corner, leaving you thinking how many of them are. But we can tell you right now, they are no more, no less than twenty.

On your way up, exactly around the half of the way, the road starts to steepen again. This is the point you might actually realize that there is still a long way up waiting for you and 5.5% avg. grade is so deceiving. Just exactly when you are about to start having seconds thoughts, Haleakala National Park signs shows up around the corner and recharges your brain into thinking that you might actually finish it.

The last segment of the climb begins from the point you see the Summit sign. It may give you a mental boost, but it's the hardest part: 18% grade, 300 vertical feet, out of the saddle and with a racing heart that seems to scream 'You're almost there'. Once you finish and actually set foot on the ground, you will forget about the pain and soreness for the breathtaking landscapes will mesmerise you.

The view inside the summit of the volcano resembles a lunar landscape and if you happen to be there at the right time, do not miss the chance to witness the sunrise over Haleakala. Writer Mark Twain called it "the sublimest spectacle" of his life for a reason.

Heads up

Obviously, it's a long ride. The record is 2:32 mins, but the average duration in somewhere around 5-6 h. So be prepared, physically, but most importantly mentally. Be prepared also for some cold weather. At 2130m (7000ft), when you reach the Visitor Center, the temperature will drop considerably and some extra jacket and warmers will do the trick. Also, a pair of gloves will come in handy when you start your descending.

It may be cold up there, but on your way up the sun shows no mercy, so don't forget also the sunscreen.

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