A person could drive up to Haleakala and do these two trail hikes on their own, BUT I very much appreciated that Hike Maui picked us up at our resort, provided lots of snacks & lunch, sturdy rain jackets, backpacks and a friendly, knowledgeable guide. Our guide, George, urged us to drink plenty of water, offered yummy fuel at every turn, kept a good pace, warned us gently about the altitude, reminded us to reapply sunscreen and pointed out lovely overlooks and flora. We had plenty of bathroom breaks and a nice gift shop/snack shop stop on the way there and the way back.
Haleakala Crater is otherworldly and breathtaking to behold. Our group sat and appreciated the view for 20 minutes while our guide offered full-size candy bars to help us get back up that hill later.
Pro tips:
Wear hiking boots with ankle support!
It can get really cold, windy and rainy atop Haleakala. Seriously wear some layers.
Let Hike Maui know ahead of time if you need vegetarian lunch, and they happily accommodate with a gardenburger sandwich - yum.
The air up there is thin. Hydrate & eat, so you don't get altitude sickness.
Sunscreen! Reapply often! Don't forget your ears & the back of your neck.