Even when they are issued, Reeser said, something more may be needed as a long-term solution. Chris Texeira of Makawao, a bicycle guide for Mountain Riders, gives some instructions before leading tourists down the mountain. On a busy day, there could be 15 bike tours waiting to head down. Tourists would park their cars at a designated lot and catch a shuttle up the mountain, while learning on the go about the park and its natural wonders. Calif. The visitors center on the highway below houses a Hearst exhibit, food services, a gift shop, theater and lots of parking.
Visitors learn about the property in a presentation on the bus ride up to the mansion.
It might make a more pleasing visit. Mary Evanson, president of the nonprofit group Friends of Haleakala National Park, said the staging area and shuttle is an excellent idea. Bus driver Larry Lawrence of Ekahi Tours Inc. said he doesn't think congestion is a major problem at the summit yet. While he admitted to having to jockey for viewing position and occasionally running into trouble finding a parking space, he said he has never heard complaints from sunrise visitors. The Honolulu Advertiser, a division of Gannett Co .