Maui is the second-largest island in Hawaii. The Valley Isle is named after the significant isthmus separating the island’s volcanic masses. It is one of the most breathtaking pieces of land in the United States, featuring miles of white, sandy beaches, lush forests, and dramatic mountains. Whether you’re looking for beginner trails or expert-level hikes, these picks include the island’s best landscapes. Check out the absolute best hikes in Maui and discover their locations, lengths, time to completion, and difficulty levels.
1. Waimoku Falls/ Pipiwai Trail (Best Hikes in Maui)
Waimoku Falls can be found on the Road to Hana, above Seven Sacred Pools, at the end of the Pipiwai Trail.
©CE Photography/Shutterstock.com
Location: Haleakala National Park. The trail begins near Hana, Maui.
Description: The most challenging part of the hike is the beginning, as you walk up rugged steps. But if you persevere, you will enter a humid bamboo forest before reaching Waimoku Falls. Don’t forget to bring boots you don’t mind getting muddy, water, and bug spray. You will need it!
Length: 3.8 miles out and back
Time: Two hours
Difficulty: Moderate
2. Sliding Sands (Keonehe’ehe’e)
The Sliding Sands trail allows you to trek into a volcanic crater.
©Raphael Rivest/Shutterstock.com
Location: Haleakala National Park near Kula, Maui.
Description: A moonscape scenery that descends and ascends a volcanic crater. As its name suggests, the sand slides as you walk, so bring proper shoes. It can also be very hot and dry as there is no shade. The top is worth the difficult hike. You will literally be walking in the clouds.
Length: 11.2 miles point to point
Time: Four to five hours
Difficulty: Challenging
3. Pa Ka’oao Trail
The Pa Ka’oao Trail gives you an excellent view of a volcanic crater.
©Billy McDonald/Shutterstock.com
Location: Haleakala National Park near Kula, Maui.
Description: While the trail is generally easy, there are some steep and rocky areas that some people may find challenging. This hike gives you an excellent view of a volcanic crater and the rest of the island. The best time to walk this trail is during sunset or just after. The views are 100% worth the semi-crowded walk.
Length: 0.5 miles out and back
Time: 15 to 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy/beginner
4. Waihe’e Ridge Trail
The Waihe’e Ridge Trail is a challenging uphill hike with a rewarding view at the top.
©Cody A Seymour/Shutterstock.com
Location: West Maui Forst Reserve near Wailuku, Maui.
Description: If you like to walk uphill in the mud, then this hike is for you! All jokes aside, the trail is an excellent workout with incredible views. On the way up, you walk through lush forests and tall trees before reaching the summit. The views at the top are astounding, featuring forested volcanic rock formations and rolling white clouds. The Waihe’e Ridge Trail is one of the absolute best hikes in Maui.
Length: 4 miles out and back
Time: Two to three hours
Difficulty: Challenging
5. Kapalua Coastal Trail
The Kapalua Coastal Trail is an easy trail for exploring the lava cliffs and the rugged coastline.
©Alexandre G. ROSA/Shutterstock.com
Location: Lahaina, Maui
Description: An excellent trail to explore the coastal region of Maui. You will stroll along cliffs, coves, tidal pools, and lookouts. And you can often spot various wildlife, like humpback whales and turtles. There are also a few beach access areas where you can stop and relax in the sand.
Length: 2.5 miles out and back
Time: One hour
Difficulty: Easy/beginner
6. Makamakaole Stream
The Upper Makamaka’ole Falls, one of Maui Hawaii’s hidden beauties, is reached by the Makamakaole Stream Trail
©iStock.com/akrassel
Location: Wailuku, Maui
Description: This trail is rugged and not well-marked. You will have to traverse over streams, boulders, and narrow channels. Once you get past the bamboo forest and stone wall, you will reach the waterfall pool. The falls are available for swimming and rope swinging, so bring proper attire. There are also more waterfalls above the main one if you decide to traverse a little further.
Length: Two miles out and back
Time: One to two hours
Difficulty: Moderate
7. Halemau’u Haleakala Overlook
View of the Haleakalā volcano summit, island of Maui, Hawaii
©iStock.com/sphraner
Location: Haleakala National Park near Kula, Maui
Description: This trail is not for the faint of heart or the beginners. You will need extra grippy shoes and walking poles. The Martian landscape is intimidating, and the lava rocks are loose and slippery. But, as always, the views up top are worth it. And the challenge is worth it, too. The weather also changes quickly. You may have sun one minute and rain and fog the next. The top can also be very chilly; dress accordingly. This trail is one of the best hikes in Maui for expert-level hikers.
Length: 7.6 miles out and back
Time: Four to five hours
Difficulty: Challenging
8. Nakalele Blowhole Trail
The Nakalele Blowhole Trail is a relatively easy, short trail with a blowhole.
©Chris Allan/Shutterstock.com
Location: Wailuku, Maui
Description: Take a short walk along the coast to view a blowhole! The challenging part begins when you must climb over slippery rocks and rough terrain to reach the viewing area. Be sure to wear non-slip shoes and take your time climbing up and down the rocks. There is also a sign that explicitly warns against getting too close to the blowhole, as you could get sucked in.
Length: 1.2 miles out and back
Time: 30 to 40 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
9. Twin Falls Trail
The Twin Falls Trail traverses over mangled roots and rivers before reaching multiple waterfalls and pools.
©Tracy Immordino/Shutterstock.com
Location: Haiku, Maui
Description: While this trail can get pretty packed, it’s worth it to check it out at least once. A paved trail winds through lush vegetation and rivers. At the end of the trail sits two pools and multiple waterfalls, where you can even get behind them. The lower falls are easy to reach with casual attire and little children. And the upper falls are a little more challenging but doable with the proper footwear. Be sure to get there early if you want a place to park.
Length: 1.8 miles out and back
Time: 50 minutes to one hour
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Summary Of The Absolute Best Hikes In Maui
| Rank | Hike | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Waimoku Falls/ Pipiwai Trail | Haleakala National Park; begins in Hana |
| 2 | Haleakala National Park begins in Hana | Haleakala National Park near Kula |
| 3 | Pa Ka’oao Trail | Haleakala National Park near Kula |
| 4 | Waihe’e Ridge Trail | West Maui Forst Reserve near Wailuku |
| 5 | Kapalua Coastal Trail | Lahaina |
| 6 | Makamakaole Stream | Wailuku |
| 7 | Halemau’u Haleakala Overlook | Haleakala National Park near Kula |
| 8 | Nakalele Blowhole Trail | Wailuku |
| 9 | Twin Falls Trail | Haiku |
The photo featured at the top of this post is © Cody A Seymour/Shutterstock.com
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