As the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui offers a wide variety of landscapes and experiences. With its lush rainforests, rugged mountaintops, and glittering beach resorts, Maui is a destination unlike any other. One of the best ways to discover the beauty of Maui is by exploring one of the island’s many hiking trails. From the summit at Haleakala to waterfall hikes in the rainforest, Maui hikes have a lot to offer travelers. So, we’ve gathered up a few of our favorite Maui hikes to help you get started planning your vacation.
‘Iao Valley State Park
The historic ‘Iao Valley State Park is home to the famous ‘Iao Needle and plenty of hiking trails. The 10-mile long park features lush landscapes, native Hawaiian flora, waterfalls, and swimming holes. The paved pathway is just under 2 miles and can be made as long or as short as you would like. Remember to explore in the early morning, before the clouds set in the mountain valley.
Pali Trail
For more a challenge, hiking the 10-mile round-trip Pali Trail is not for the faint of heart. Hike through mountainous terrain that connects West Maui to Central Maui. Overlooking the town of Maalaea, hikers should be prepared for high winds towards the top of the hike. One of the best ways to enjoy this hike is to hike during whale watching season (December – March), where you can take a break, sit and see if you can spot one from shore.
Twin Falls
Located on the North Shore along the popular Road to Hana, the Twin Falls hike is a somewhat easier hike – just under two miles, round-trip. The main attraction of the hike is the two waterfalls hikers will encounter, where you can swim in the pools and go underneath the waterfall itself. Due to its relatively easy access and short distance, this hike can be crowded so be prepared to share the trail.
Sliding Sands
Located inside the Haleakala National Park, Sliding Sands Trail takes you to the summit of the crater. The trail guides visitors eight miles through the south base of the crater. Start at the second visitor center near the summit, at 10,000 feet and continue down switchbacks from the crater rim. Stark vegetation and mars-like lava and cinder make this hike feel like you’re in another world. This can be a challenging hike due to length and elevation, so this might not be one for the kids.
Waihee Ridge Trail
Located in the West Maui Forest Reserve – on the northern side of West Maui, the Waihee Ridge Trail is a 4.5-mile trail that guides hikers through some of the most beautiful landscapes that the island has to offer. This challenging hike takes high in the West Maui Mountains for unbeatable views. Take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch at the top of the trail and give yourself a pat on the back for all the work you did!
Stay at Kahana Sunset
After your long day of hiking come back and relax in your condo at Kahana Sunset. Located on the beaches of Keoni Nu’ I Bay, our ocean-front condos offer guests an authentic Hawaiian getaway with comfortable accommodations, perfect for your Maui vacation.