If you’re into hiking, Maui has a few great hiking trails. You can hike the Lahaina Pali Trail, an eight-kilometer (five-mile) loop with a high degree of difficulty. It takes four to five hours for one-way travel. It has a long stretch of uphill lava rock that leads to a wind farm. But it is definitely worth it for the magnificent views of the surrounding island.
The trailhead is at mile maker #9.5 of the Road to Hana. You’ll see plenty of farm and fruit stands along the way. The trail ends at the 200-foot Makahiku Falls. You can also take the Pipiwai Trail, known for its bamboo forest. Be sure to visit early in the morning because it can get crowded. You’ll also want to avoid the busy afternoons. During this time, you’ll likely encounter fewer tourists, and the trail will probably be less crowded.
For a challenging hike, you might consider the Sliding Sands Trail, which is part of the Haleakala National Park. It covers three thousand feet of elevation and requires two days to complete. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the Haleakala Crater and the revered Pele’s Paint Pot. The trail ends at mile marker 22. While hiking on Maui, be sure to pack your hiking boots and bring your camera.
The trails in Kapalua are particularly picturesque. The Mahana Ridge Trail begins near D.T. Fleming Beach Park and climbs six miles to the Maunalei Arboretum. Founded more than 80 years ago, the Maunalei Arboretum is a beautiful and diverse botanical garden. Suriname cherries, kauri trees, ‘amu’a ferns, and maile shrubs thrive in this beautiful garden. You can even hop on a complimentary shuttle to visit the Maunalei Arboretum.
Hiking trails in Maui vary in difficulty and terrain. Depending on where you’d like to hike, you’ll find everything from scenic coastal trails to challenging volcanic terrain. Maui hiking trails offer breathtaking views and an opportunity to spot rare plants, native birds, and more. Before you start your Maui hike, make sure you’re properly prepared by researching trail descriptions and maps. You’ll be happy you did. This activity is also great for families.
You can also go hiking at Iao Valley State Park. This reforested valley floor features a stunning 1,200-foot-high landmark called the ‘Iao Needle.’ A one-mile hike in this park begins at a beautiful spot that was also the site of the 18th-century battle of Kepaniwai, which holds a significant place in Hawaiian history. After a brief walk, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the south shoreline.
If you don’t mind strenuous exercise, you should try a hiking trail in Maui. A four-mile trail will give you a good workout while passing through bamboo forests. Then, take a look at the 400-foot Makahiku Falls from an overlook. You’ll find this waterfall to be a breathtaking site, and it is certainly worth the effort. Afterwards, make your way back to the car and admire the view from the top.