4 Awesome Hikes on Maui
Waimoku Falls, via the Pipiwai Trail in Hana
Waiheʻe Ridge Trail
This hike is all about the amazing views: you’ll see the blue expanse of the Pacific, the dramatic Waihe’e Valley, and huge waterfalls in the distance. About 5 miles round-trip (there-and-back), this trail is difficult mostly because you’ll be going up most of the way. But the dramatic vistas and varied landscapes (from pine forests to native bogs) make the trek well worth the effort. Pro tip: go on an overcast day to avoid the sun and to feel like you’re walking in the clouds.
Views from Waihe’e Ridge.
2. Keoneheʻeheʻe Trail (Sliding Sands) - Haleakala National Park
Length: 12 miles point-to-point.
This hike is one of the best ways to explore Haleakala, the world’s largest dormant volcano. The length and elevation make it difficult, but the Mars-like landscape and epic sunset at the end make it worth it. Start from the summit at 10,000 ft of elevation and then journey down into the crater. The hike is mostly flat, and you’ll wind around cider cones, lava tubes, and see endemic plants and birds. The last section is steep, consisting of 2 miles of switchbacks as you climb out of the crater.
This is a challenging hike at high elevation! Bring at least 3 liters of water, sun protection, and layers (it gets cold up there, even below freezing!).
Hint: Park your car at the Halemau'u Trailhead, which is below the summit and where the trail ends. When you’re done hiking, drive back up to the summit to see the sunset, and then get dinner in Pa’ia (pizza at FlatBread) or Makawao (go to Polli’s for delicious and filling Mexican food).
3. Pipiwai Trail
Located in the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park (not the summit district, which is a good three hours away!), this trail winds through a bamboo forest to an epic 80 ft tall waterfall. About 4 miles round trip, this hike is easy with minimal elevation gain.
4. Waihe’e Coastal Dunes and Wetlands Trail
Wanting to learn about Native Hawaiian history and culture? This hike is located along the beach on land stewarded by the Hawai’i Islands Land Trust. This nature preserve is being restored with native plants, and is home to several archeological sites. You can also volunteer with the Land Trust on Friday mornings and help restore this important cultural and ecological landscape.
