One of the best (and consequently most popular) hikes in Maui, the Pipiwai Trail is not to be missed. The hike takes about 2-3 hours, features an elevation gain of around 600 feet, and is around 4 miles out and back.
Begin one of the most breathtaking hikes of a lifetime
Getting to the Pipiwai Trail (Maui)
For most travelers, even getting to the trailhead is an adventure. Unless you fly directly into Hana, getting requires driving the scenic, one-lane, 52-mile Road to Hana (in all of its 617 white-knuckle switchbacks’ and 59 bridges’ glory). The Pipiwai Trail is located on the backside of Haleakalā National Park in Kipahulu. If you’re planning to do this hike, you’ll probably want to spend at least one night in Hana to avoid driving the Road to Hana twice in one day. For luxury accommodations, check out the Hotel Travaasa (formerly Hotel Hana).
Park at the Haleakalā National Park Visitors Center for $10.
The Hike
Behold the majestic banyan tree near Mahahiku Falls
Stop for a moment by the enormous banyan where people have carved their names into the tree.
Pipiwai Stream
Be sure to check the weather report before you go. Flash flooding is common along the Pipiwai Trail in Maui, and can affect the safety of this hike (particularly crossing the Ohe’o Gulch Stream).
Enjoying the humidity on the Pipiwai Trail
The variety of the hike is spectacular. You’ll hike by enormous banyan trees, walk through three dark bamboo forests, and spy several fantastic waterfalls (including Makahiku Falls) before arriving at the star of the show: Waimoku Falls. The breathtaking waterfall drops 400 feet down a lava rock wall.
A worthwhile reward greets hikers at the end of the trail
