We will wake hours before sunrise the first morning in Maui to view one of the most spectacular sights on the Pacific Ocean. We will get up around 4 a.m. Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time, though it will feel like 9 a.m. Texas time. We will put on as many layers as we have, pack our cameras and some cash for the National Park entrance fee, take the covers off of the hotel beds, and pack into the rental cars. We'll get breakfast at the only place that's open, the local Denny's, and make the assent up the volcano.
Winding turns 45 degrees up a volcano are thrilling (and a little scary) at 5 a.m. in the pitch black morning. There are no city lights to illuminate the road. We will be in two cars, so hopefully the boys won't try to outdo each other in their turning prowess. Roll up your car windows after you have smelled the sweet pineapple fields and sugar cane because the temperature drops dramatically as we ascend the volcano.
We have finally arrived at the top. It's very cold, so wrap yourself in your bed linens and venture to the viewing deck. There is still 30 minutes before sunrise. You look out past the rocky peaks. What is that? Water? You look closer, and realize you are not looking out at water. You are looking out at clouds - you are standing above the clouds.
In the next 30 minutes, you will see a beautiful day born with one of the most spectacular sunrises. It's perfect. It's breathtaking. It's unforgettable.
This is the perfect start to a perfect vacation.
For a preview, check out this you tube video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2OdyepVunk&feature=related
You are also going to need to practice saying the name of this national park, because you are going to want to tell everyone about it. Here is my basic tutorial on how to pronounce Haleakala:
Say it with me, Ha - lay - ah - kah - la
