Lookin_Glass

if I might interject - if you went for sunrise you would be driving up in the dark. The difference would be not being worried about driving the bike groups off the road after sunset.

Tomsd

For the most part - I prefer to organize things myself rather than pay how much? for a guided service for 4? - but to each their own.

Just read some guide books - and google away about the various excursions on Maui and you should get a pretty good idea if you can handle it, which for the most part - I would think you can.

And while I have not hiked into the rain forest off the road to Hana - how confusing might it be?

Sometimes - local guides in tourist areas (not just Hawaii) make it seem like it's all so difficult - when in reality - doing some homework gives you a much better idea - plus I find it interesting to do some checking about where I will be traveling.

Katzgar

use gmaps street walk and look at the entire route of the bike ride.

Dewd

A Word About a Haleakala Hike: It can be grueling.

The Haleakala environment is moon-like - very arid with no vegetation. The temperature can be very cold or very hot - sometimes both in the same day. And the high altitude makes it even more difficult to endure.

You start your hike at close to 10,000 feet above sea level and hike down about 2,000 feet in altitude... then you have to hike back out. It's tough.

Having said all that, if you can handle the physical strain, the hike is amazing - truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

TIP: There are cabins in the crater you can rent from the National Park Service for an overnight stay. It's an amazing experience to spend a night in the crater.

kanunu

First time in Hawaii, in the first few days, I took 2 tours myself (Oahu - whole island, and Honolulu/east coast). The other 4 members of our group did what they wanted (went to the beach, shopped, etc.) Then we rented a car, and I was the "guide" for a long and enjoyable day for all, going to places that all would appreciate. Since then, on return trips, DW and I don't bother going on many tours, but I think that guided tours are a great way for first timers (even if they have done a lot of research) to get a head start on Hawaii, the locale, features, etc., but especially, understanding Aloha!
Mind you, you'll need some patience for a stop or two at retail outlets that the tours often take you to.....
We have done the Haleakala downhill bike ride (rode down on our own option). It was fine, but no need to do it again. Been to the top for sunrise a few times, and also later, and to me, being there at sunrise was over-hyped, as well as bitter cold (30 F. and strong winds in Feb./March).
By the way, I am not negative on Hawaii, quite the contrary. We have found all the islands to be unique and amazing places.... can't get enough!
Whichever activities you choose, I expect you will have a great time!

NString

My wife & I did the sunrise and then guided bike ride. A very early start to the day - no scenery to see on the way up. Gorgeous sunrise but freezing cold (went in Dec). I am an avid cyclist, but my wife is a timid, nervous nelly. She almost decided to ride in the van but didn't. She managed fine with the ride & was glad she did it. Safety was their highest concern. I didn't think the traffic was that much of an issue. The ride was quicker than we would have liked - only made 2 stops where you could really enjoy the view.
I am going back and am thinking of going up mid day for a short hike and then stay for the sunset - I hear its fewer people, no early wake-up.

janisj

NString: Just in case you are responding to the OP - their trip was last month.