Maui, Day 4 again (December 29, 2025)

The Haleakala Observatory at the summit is above one-third of the Earth's atmosphere and excellent for star gazing. We were sad that it isn't open to the public except by appointment.

Sunset above the clouds from the summit

Ryder, Brandy, and River at the top. Mya and Piper waited in the car because it was so cold and windy. Brandy mimicked several girls who were videoing themselves, probably for TikTok posts.

Overlooking the crater from the upper visitor center. The last eruption was in 1790.

Ryder at the summit visitor center. 

• Total Height: Measured from the ocean floor to its 10,023-foot summit, the volcano is about 28,000 to 30,000 feet tall.
• Underwater Depth: Roughly 19,680 to 20,000+ feet of the mountain is concealed beneath the Pacific Ocean.
• Ranking: It is the third-highest mountain on Earth when measured from its seamount base.

Tom and me, maybe overlooking the crater from the top? Not sure.

Brandy and me, freezing at the top in mid-40 degree temps, awaiting sunset.