Park Comparison
Haleakalā vs National Park of American Samoa
Two iconic parks, different strengths. Here's how they stack up.
Updated
The Quick Take
Haleakalā
A dormant volcano where you stand above the clouds at 10,000 feet, then descend through alpine desert to rainforest in a single morning.
National Park of American Samoa
The only national park south of the equator protects volcanic peaks, coral reefs, and villages across three South Pacific islands.
At a Glance
The Crowd Picture
National Park of American Samoa sees less than half the visitors Haleakalā gets, which translates to a noticeably different crowd experience on trails and at viewpoints.
Haleakalā
Haleakalā welcomes 732K visitors annually across 45.5 square miles — about 16,098 visitors per square mile. Congestion is intense, peaking in May. A long comfortable season helps spread crowds across 12 months.
National Park of American Samoa
National Park of American Samoa welcomes 22,567 visitors annually across 21.1 square miles — about 1,070 visitors per square mile. Congestion is low, peaking in April.
National Park of American Samoa is dramatically less congested than Haleakalā — you'll feel the difference on every trail.
When to Go
Click any month to see how conditions compare side-by-side.
Trails & Activities
Haleakalā National Park has more trail mileage for exploration.
Haleakalā Top Activities
- photography 10/10
- hiking 9/10
- scenic driving 9/10
- backpacking 8/10
- stargazing 8/10
National Park of American Samoa Top Activities
- swimming 9/10
- photography 9/10
- kayaking canoeing 8/10
- wildlife viewing 8/10
- bird watching 8/10
Camping
Haleakalā National Park offers significantly more camping options.
The Bottom Line
Choose Haleakalā if you...
- Want to experience Haleakalā Crater
- Are looking for world-class hiking
- Are a first-time national park visitor
Choose National Park of American Samoa if you...
- Want to experience Pola Island
- Are looking for world-class swimming
- Want fewer crowds and more solitude
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Haleakalā or National Park of American Samoa?
It depends on what you're looking for. Haleakalā is known for Haleakalā Crater, while National Park of American Samoa is known for Pola Island. National Park of American Samoa is less crowded, making it the better pick if solitude matters to you.
Is Haleakalā or National Park of American Samoa more crowded?
Haleakalā has a congestion index of 8.4/10 and receives 732K visitors per year. National Park of American Samoa scores 1.2/10 with 22,567 annual visitors. National Park of American Samoa is the quieter option.
When is the best time to visit Haleakalā vs National Park of American Samoa?
The best month to visit Haleakalā is July, while National Park of American Samoa is best visited in February. The different peak seasons mean you could visit one in spring and the other in fall.
Which has better hiking, Haleakalā or National Park of American Samoa?
Haleakalā has 29 trail miles and National Park of American Samoa has 28. Both parks offer strong hiking options.