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©2007 Pony Express ToursPony Express specializes in horseback tours in two locations on beautiful Haleakala on Maui, Hawaii. From the verdant expanses of Haleakala Ranch to the other-wordly terrain of Haleakala Crater, you'll see parts of Maui best seen from a horse! Expertly guided and narrated, you'll feel like you're seeing Maui with a friend who has horses!
| Junction Ride | Paniolo Ride | Mauka Ride |
| Tour Start Location | Requirements and Special Instructions | Frequently Asked Questions |
Come explore the famed Haleakala Crater on horseback. This 4 hour trip is 7.5 awe inspiring miles of spectacular views and unforgettable experiences!
This 2 hour morning ride takes you around the historic Haleakala Ranch which comprises a large portion of Maui's High Country. Guests will learn all about the "Paniolo" (Hawaiian Cowboy).
Guests can be "cowboys for a day" on this afternoon horseback ride through Haleakala Ranch. This is the perfect way to top off a Haleakala Day!
Guests are asked to meet at the Pony Express Ranch Office at least 30 Minutes prior to scheduled departure time. Driving time is approximately 1.5 Hours from the West side (Lahaina side) and the South Side (Kihei side).
Directions:
From the West Side/Lahaina Side: Head back to the main airport on hwy 30; turn right on hwy 380; turn right on 36 by K-Mart; short distance – turn right on hwy 37 (crater hwy and follow signs to the national park); go up 7 miles and depending on the day of the week, you will automatically be led into 377 due to morning traffic cones or you will turn left on 377. Continue 5.5 miles on hwy 377 until hwy 378 and turn left. Go 2.5 miles up 378, on the left hand side there is a red building that says Pony Express and that is the Ranch Office.
From South Maui/Kihei side: Head back to the main airport on hwy 311, turn right on 380 by the church, right on 36 by K-Mart, right on 37; go up 7 miles and you will be led into 377 or you turn left on 377; go 5.5 miles on 377 to 378 turn left; go 2.5 miles up 378 and on the left is the red building that says Pony Express.
Rider Requirements:
What is Haleakala Crater?
Haleakala Crater is the result of two competing forces of nature; volcanism which built the great mountain of Haleakala to a height of over 12,000 feet and erosional forces (rain, wind) which have reduced it to the current height of 10,023 feet. In geologic terms, it is an erosional depression. In visual terms, breathtaking, awesome, striking all come to mind.
What is Haleakala National Park?
Haleakala National Park encompassess the Crater as well as the Ohe'o Gulch area on East Maui. It stretches from the summit of Haleakala at 10,023 feet to sea level where Ohe'o stream enters the Pacific.
What about the elevation?
Pony Express explores the Crater from the rim (9,870 feet) to the floor (7,500 feet). Most people handle the elevation well although a few experience elevation sickness symptoms which can include headache, nausea and dizzyness. If you have had prior problems with elevation, our Haleakala Ranch rides at 4,000 feet are an option. We recommend riders who will also scuba dive while on Maui schedule the Crater ride first to avoid decompression problems associated with elevation.
How long will the drive from my hotel be?
The drive from Lahaina/Kaanapali is a leisurely two hours; from Kihei/Wailea about 1.5 hours. A rental car is recommended for the trip. There are no regularly scheduled round-trip shuttles to the top. Drivers are cautioned to use a lower gear when going downhill to assist in breaking.
How cold is it on the top?
Generally speaking, each 1,000 feet of elevation results in a three degree difference of temperature. The 10,000' summit is around 30 degrees cooler than at sea level. A toasty 85 degrees in Lahaina can be 55 degrees on top of Haleakala. Add a little breeze and you can see why dressing warmly in layers is required. The day will warm slightly as we make our descent to the floor (less breeze) and riders begin to peel layers to adjust.
Do I need sunscreen?
Yes indeed! Maximum sunscreen will help you avoid a nasty sunburn (don't forget the backs of your hands). The elevation permits more of the suns' rays to reach your skin. A hat is strongly encouraged as well.
Can we canter the horses?
Both the Crater Ride and Ranch Ride are touring rides which do not feature cantering. The Crater Ride goes into the Parks' back country which is accessible only by foot or horseback. Outside medical assistance will not readily be available in the event a rider takes a spill while cantering.
What type of restrictions are there?
It is required that all riders weigh less than 235 pounds, be at least 10 years old (9 with lots of riding experience) and no pregnant riders. There is no maximum age restriction but Pony Express feels it prudent to consult with those over 65 concerning the rigors of the ride. Pony Express also checks for any health conditions with the 10,000' elevation in terms of heart, lungs or sun.
Do you have to be an experienced rider?
It is recommended that you have riding experience prior to coming on any of Pony Express' rides.
How to proceed?
The first step is to decide your level of riding: