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Highly recommend driving the road to Hana on the east side of Maui to this trail. We googled the trail and were taken along the west side of the island- the back way to Hana. The road along the coast is pretty sketchy in some areas, especially in a non 4-wheel drive vehicle. The hike itself is moderate, out & back 4-5 miles total distance. The hike in is mostly uphill- there are many steps. The hike back is mostly downhill. There's a large banyan tree along the way, about a mile in a bamboo forest begins and you walk about a mile in it. The waterfall at the end is 400 feet and lovely. The trail is heavily trafficked- we didn't see much wildlife. Recommend sunscreen & bug spray. Also, entry is $30 and keep your receipt- it will also get you in to the Haleakala summit on the opposite end of the Haleakala National Park.
Really worth the time! Nice trail with lots to experience (loved the sound of the Bamboo in the wind). Wish we started earlier so we could have done other trails but it got really hot.
This is a great trail and hike to see two different waterfalls. About 2 miles in, 2 miles out. Some elevated climbs but not much really. The real chore is the 2 - 3 twisty windy at times one lane drive to and from the national park. Try to avoid getting caught driving back after dusk.
Pipiwai Trail is one of the best hikes I have done in a long time! Located in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park (what some people consider to be the end of the Road to Hana), it hadn't even been on our radar when we started the Road to Hana - we had initially planned on just doing the Seven Sacred Pools. After reading about how highly recommended this hike was, though, we knew we had to add it in last minute. This is a four-mile round-trip moderate hike that took us about 2 hours with stops to take pictures and enjoy the scenery. Trail is very well-maintained, so no questions about where to go and easy to walk on. This trail has everything - waterfalls, a bamboo forest, a banyan tree - all while hiking through a beautiful, lush rainforest. It's quite fun how much of nature is incorporated in this hike. We started this trail around 3pm, but had no problems finishing it before dark. Great tree cover and shade. Trail gets slipperier the closer you get to Waimoku Falls so just walk carefully. You'll reach Makahiku Falls - a 200 foot waterfall - about 0.5 miles into the hike. It's a bit of a distance away from where you stand, but still gorgeous. However, where this hike shines is with Waimoku Falls at the end of the hike - a 400 foot waterfall that you get to see up close. Words struggle to describe the true majesty of these falls - it is 100% worth the hike and so peaceful to sit on the rocks and take it all in. Make sure you plan ahead for this hike - I wouldn't be too concerned about having to finish this hike after dark. However, if you are driving back and don't want to do Hana Highway after dark, make sure to finish this hike in plenty of time to do the drive in daylight. While this part of the park is more remote, they still have a small visitor center with nice bathrooms and a water bottle refill station. The closest gas station, though, is in Hana so make sure you have enough gas. We visited both the Kīpahulu and Summit districts of Haleakalā, and the Pipiwai Trail w/ Waimoku Falls was one of my top two experiences in the park. This is a must-stop for your Haleakalā National Park and Road to Hana adventures. Hands down a wonderful hike worth the stop and the time.
We did the Haleakalā sunrise on Saturday of our trip. That national park pass is good for three days so if you decide to do the road to Hana and include this trail to see Waimoku Falls, you won't have to pay the additional fee to enter (we did road to Hana on Sunday, spent the night in Hana then did this Pipiwai Trai hike/falls on Monday). This is an easy trail, well maintained with lots of steps and can get slippery when it drizzles/rains so bring good shoes. The trail leads you to a big banyan tree and through a bamboo forest, so fun to hear the knocking of the bamboo trees against each other. Of course, there are lots of breathtaking spots for pictures. Bring bug spray as the spray we did at the car sweat off and the bugs were active. We started at 8am, had a 9 and 11 year old with us, but had to stop often as I threw out my back a couple days before. We finished the round trip hike to the the Waimoku and back by 2pm. We probably could have done the hike in 2 hours if I didn't have to stop so much because of my back. Wonderful trail, with a big Waimoku falls payoff at the end. So worth it. Parking is $10.
This trail has spectacular views from beginning to end. It's a great hike for all ages too. Just make sure to bring water and use the restroom before you begin.
$30 to enter the park, it is a 3 day parking pass, if you're planning to visit other parks like Haleakala, it covers that too! There's a visitor center, restroom, and water bottle refill before you start the hike. Awesome hike! Lots of beautiful scenery along the way, like the bamboo trees. You may see wild animals like a pig, also saw a giant spider so watch out! Hike is about 2 miles each way to the waterfall there are some wild inclines. Definitely need good shoes or hiking shoes. Once you reach the viewpoint, you can walk pass the warning sign (At your discretion-you may get fined if you're caught) and be right under the waterfall. Be careful.. I saw giant rocks falling off the waterfall so probably not a good idea to be right under it!
This is an easy/moderate 4-mile round trip hike. The hike through the bamboo forest to Waimoku Falls is a trip highlight when we visit Hana. Some parts of the trail get pretty slick and it can be a bit uneven. Flash floods are possible so check weather if you know it's going to rain in the area. I've seen people in sandals to hiking shoes and I've always just used sneakers. Water, snack, and mosquito repellent are highly recommended. It is part of Haleakalā Volcano National Park. As such, there is an entrance fee. In our Hana 2021 visit we opted to buy the National Park Pass for $80 which can be used at any National Park like Yosemite for a year. There are four major highlights to see on this trail. Makahiku Falls which feels maybe halfway along the trails. The trail doesn't lead you to it but it is in view and beautiful. The giant banyan tree is a great photo opportunity and a good place to rest and snack/water up. It is so huge and just feels ancient. The bamboo forest is phenomenal. It gets so dense at times that it feels like dusk. If you are alone on the path pausing to just listen to the wind weave amongst the bamboo causing creaking and knocking is quite mesmerizing. This is actually my favorite part of the trail. Waimoku falls is the reward at the end of the trail. This 400 foot waterfall actually sneaks up on you due to the dense jungle. You hear it, maybe catch a glimpse of it if you're looking up through the tree line but for the most part you turn a corner and bam, waterfall. On our first visit 20+ years ago you could hike to the bottom of the falls and stand underneath. Well that is now considered dangerous as people have died due to rocks falling on them. So at the end of the trail you're also greeted with a "Do not pass this point" sign. So of course people still ignore it and find their way through to the waterfall basin. Not me, I got kids now. Your choice. We've done this hike three times now and it never ceases to amaze me.
Not as easy as some people say and I would designated a good chunk of your day for this activity unless you're staying in Hana. We paid $30 for a parking permit that was valid for three days for any attractions in the park. The road to Hana was a windy and ruthless one and this destination was towards the very end. During our drive to the entrance, we passed by a relatively large waterfall that permitted climbing and swimming. Honestly that was the perfect appetizer to what was coming. When we arrived at the spacious parking lot, we stopped by the averagely clean restrooms before our 3 hour trek. The trail branched out between a smaller one that led to the sacred pools and the longer one that led to the Waimoku Falls. Notably we traveled with a 7 year old and 55 year old so the trail was doable for a wide range of ages given that the adventure started early enough. Considering the doozy of a ride back from this park, I wouldn't start the trail past 2PM so the drive back wouldn't have to be in complete darkness. Water, hats, sunscreen, bug spray and athletic shoes were a must. Notable attractions included a massive banyan tree, smaller waterfalls, bamboo surrounded tunnel, and Waimoku Falls. There was also a fluctuating drizzle that dampened the ground beneath us. The first half of the trail was rockier with an incline. The roots from the trees made natural steps and there was less shade. The banyan tree was the first stop we made and was perfect for pictures. As we trudged along, we heard water flow and redirected from the main trail to see some of their smaller falls. As we crossed a bridge, we entered the shaded area surrounded by bamboo. While it was cooling, the rain really impacted this area, making the manmade steps slippery and ground muddy. We had a couple falls here. After another mile, we reached the final destination and ultimate waterfall: Waimoku Falls. We took photos next to the sign and then made our way back the same way we came. The natural scenery blew us away but the children were completely wiped out afterwards. Patience and determination will make this hike doable but this was the most energy intensive activity we did on the entire trip.
The entire pipiwai trail hiking is about two miles one way. The first stop of Makahiku Overlook is about half mile, with the glimpse of a waterfall, Makahiku Falls, moving forward there is a humongous banyan tree along the way, then the bamboo forest can be found about one mile, where most visitors stop. After that, the trails become wet and slippery, last stop Waimoku Falls viewing area brings to the end of the trail.
Pipiwai Trail is the primary activity and hike to do here in the Kipahulu (Coastal) District of Haleakala National Park. And...this Pipiwai Trail leads to beautiful and majestic Waimoku Falls! Yes Waimoku Falls! This waterfall at the end of the trail was simply stunning! Phenomenal! So...before mentioning Waimoku Falls...I'd like to provide a few details about this Pipiwai Trail... - In total, Pipiwai Trail is 4 miles roundtrip. It wasn't even really elevated either. I'd classify the hike as moderately difficulty. Though, for myself, I was so excited to be here at Haleakala National Park and to even just be stepping foot in Hawaii...I'd say my pace along the trail was pretty brisk. I was pumped up and ready to explore so it took me 45 minutes to arrive at Waimoku Falls. - When starting the hike...there's a signage board posted stating that this Pipiwai Trail cannot be started later than 3pm because it takes 2 - 3 hours to complete the trek and Park Services locks the gates to this Kipahulu District promptly at 5pm. My best advice...just arrive here in the morning time, lol. Also, you are prohibited from swimming at Waimoku Falls or in any of the streams along the way. - For the 2 miles in each direction, there'll be signs in terms of distances for eventually arriving at Waimoku Falls. - Along the way on this Pipiwai Trail...you're afforded some terrific moments walking through lush green vegetations...like a real rain forest. It was generally hot and humid outside, and it felt like I was transported far away from reality hiking in some lost tropical getaway. I was visiting in the middle of March 2022 and was definitely working up a good sweat. But...it felt great to hike deep within the forest ultimately all leading up to the grand moment...the 400-foot plunge of Waimoku Falls! - Also, on the hike towards Waimoku Falls, there's a sign mentioning that 1/2 mile into Pipiwai Trail you'll come upon Makahiku Falls Viewpoint...but because of the active growth of all the trees and bushes surrounding the overlook...you can't really view anything. This Makahiku Falls was totally obstructed unfortunately. - 1 mile into the hike you'll be immersed in the Bamboo Forest. This area was pretty scenic for being among that vintage, tropical setting. You'll also pass by a funky looking sort of bamboo tree. You can't miss it and people were stopping to take pictures of it. This tree was quite unique looking. The tree was the midpoint of the trail. - Finally, when at the falls...it was really wondrous to look at. This Waimoku Falls was the 2nd best waterfall I viewed during my time in Hawaii. The best was the behemoth of them all - Akaka Falls!...located on The Big Island. - Lastly, to access Pipiwai Trail you first have to enter the Kipahulu section of Haleakala NP and it was a $30 fee. Once you park your car in the lot, the trailhead is situated right beside the Visitors Center. Pipiwai Trail leading up to gorgeous Waimoku Falls is the heart and soul of this Kipahulu (Coastal) part of Haleakala NP. It's one of the big reasons why tourists make the difficult journey driving up and down winding Hana Highway road. And overall...when here on the island of Maui, this Pipiwai hike to Waimoku Falls is simply a MUST-DO for all visitors!
We drove 2.5 hours to the Pipiwai trail, and were excited to try this "easy trail" based on the reviews we read online. However, we found out the trail was quite rocky & muddy along with a lot of loose rocks. My boyfriend's mom came along for this "easy hike" and had some trouble with all the vertical steps and slippery surfaces. Lot of other hikers also mentioned the same, as they thought most of the trail would be easy and paved with wood planks. We finished the hike (all the way to the lookout for the beautiful waterfall) and managed to stay for a while before it started raining, which made the path even more slippery and harder for my boyfriend's mom to navigate. Besides that, we had a good time hiking between me, my boyfriend and his teenage daughter. It wasn't overly difficult for us, but it was hard to walk on the roots, rocks and our feet were tired by the end. Overall, we totally recommend this trail as its full of fun attractions (the huge banyan tree, the bamboo forest and waterfalls). However, please note it's not "easy" by any means and we would not advise bring older adults along unless they are experienced hikers with good stamina.
It was a long hike to get to the waterfall at the end, but it was worth it. I recommend you have some good, comfortable hiking shoes/boots with you. There were many great spots for picture taking and selfies. They have a big parking lot but it can get pretty busy during the afternoon.
7 years ago
This was one of the highlights of our trip to Maui. The hike is amazing, there's a beautiful banyan tree, bamboo forest and the hike ends with a majestic waterfall. You NEED to do this hike during your visit to the Road to Hana. In my opinion, it's definitely a MUST DO. My friends and I were staying in Kaanapali and left our hotel at 6:30 am. We did a couple of stops along the along the way and arrived at the start of the Pipiwai trail around 10:30 am. Parking was free for us because we had my military ID but I think it's $25 to park for the public. The parking pass is valid for 3 days. Definitely bring a backpack with snacks, water, bug spray, sunscreen and hat. Also, if you want to go under the waterfalls, bring water shoes. The hike starts off with a moderate climb but power through because the reward at the end is so worth it. I love this hike and highly recommend it. It is amazing, rewarding, unique. read more
5 years ago
This was our last stop on the road to Hana. It's a 2 mile hike that ends with a beautiful water fall. My friends and I started the hike at 3:30pm and The park closes at 5pm. There's signs telling you not to start after 3pm which I advise you listen. My friend and I basically ran through the rain and mud so we can get to the waterfall. It was so worth it but we only had a couple minutes to actually enjoy the view so we can make it back to the parking lot without a fine. Part of the trail was a bamboo forest. That was really nice too. read more
5 years ago
Firstly, make sure to set your Google Maps to the visitor center and not the trailhead itself. There is a water station and toilet at the parking lot. Highly recommend coming on the weekday or before 10 AM on the weekend to avoid the rush. Great (relatively) short hike with a great payoff. Overall it took our group of mid twenties 2 hour round trip, accounting for 40 minutes of pictures and relaxing by the water. 15 minutes into the trail you should be greeted by a majestic ancient Banyan Tree. Halfway in, you will pass through a bamboo forest before the bamboos recede to reveal the waterfall in the distance. Once you reached the waterfall, there is a stopping point and venturing beyond it to be closer to the waterfall May land you a $100 fine. However there was no guard stationed nor did anybody really heed the signage. Venture at your own risk! Overall, if there is one waterfall to see in Maui, make it this waterfall. The trail gets tricky and wet (requiring you to be ankle deep in streams if you're not careful) but personally, it is part of what added to the fun of the hike. read more
8 years ago
The Pipiwai Trail is a MUST do on the Road to Hana. The 4 mile (RT) hike will take you to multiple waterfalls, a huge Banyan Tree, through a massive bamboo forest and other magical views. The hike has a moderately steep incline on the way in but you can get away with wearing your sneakers. Be sure to bring water, sun screen, BUG SPRAY, and a camera! If you are taking the "classic" route through a Road to Hana, this is one of the last stops on the map. I recommend doing the reverse route because this is one of the best stops on the trip. *Download "Shaka Maui" app for detailed map, instructions and tour guide* Parking is in a large lot and there are also water fountains and flush toilets at the stop. read more
2 years ago
So many fond, hilarious moments hiking this trail. I once found myself rolling on the ground laughing so hard because I was having so much fun. HAHA! It is moderately strenuous, but still family friendly in my opinion. Young kids could do it and my mother in-law breezed through it, so definitely fun for everyone! The Pipiwai Trail is just one of those magical places on Maui... all 4.5 miles of it (round trip). You'll find yourself standing in awe of waterfalls from the beginning of the trail all the way to the top where it culminates at the breathtaking 400 foot tall Waimoku falls. In the midst of this lush tropical rain forest you'll find yourself in between a symphony of bamboo, under the embrace of an old banyan tree, & waterfall after waterfall thrashing into the stream below. I imagine this is what a lot of people envision Maui to be like -- a beautiful paradise of sorts rich in indigenous plants and trees. This trail remains open, despite the Pools of `Ohe`o being permanently closed due to safety concerns. Disappointing, but yes, you can not swim in the pools anymore and the pool below Waimoku falls isn't exactly swimmable either. Which btw, I do not recommend standing at the base of the waterfall. Can you imagine a rock falling from 400 feet above? It happened quite recently... Some Pro Tips: There's a Guided Ranger Hike! The guided Pīpīwai Trail hike is on a reservation basis offered on Sundays at 10:00 am. Hikes cannot be booked until 9:00 am, one week prior to the hike. Check the National Parks website for more info! Yes, the trail is located within Haleakala National Park, so you'll have to pay an entrance fee. The pass is good for the whole day so we like to watch the sunrise up at the summit and then head here afterwards for a picnic. Make a day of it! If you have enough time, do the hike! read more
6 years ago
This is a beautiful trail full of photo ops. You'll encounter waterfall backgrounds, giant trees and the bamboo forest on your hike. I definitely recommend any visitors to bring water shoes and mosquito repellent, trust it will save you! On our hike to the big kahuna of waterfalls we encountered many people who could not make it all of the way due to the lack of water shoes so remember this is important unless you'd like to make the walk anyway and get your hiking shoes wet. It's definitely worth it! The hike it's self was probably a 7/10 difficulty but 10/10 when raining as the rocks and mud make it extremely difficult not to fall. You will need to cross a small river to get to the actual waterfall and that is the most difficult portion of the hike but it is a very short river. Standing underneath the giant Waterfall was probably the best moment of the whole trip as you feel the mist in the air all around you. Truly an awesome experience! read more
Wonderful diverse hiking trail. Beautiful luscious greenery with an amazing bamboo forest and plenty of waterfalls to ooh and ahh about. We went on a day that was raining on and off so parts of the trail were slippery. Remember to bring good nonslip shoes. Your shoes will get dirty and you will get tired but it was well worth it to be one with nature! Don't get caught off guard and be one of the ones we secretly chuckled at walking with slippers and sandals up the trail as we made our way back to the bottom. read more
Amazing trail! Our family (kids age 4, 9 and 13) hiked Pipiwai Trail for 2 hours. The path is well organized and not a strenuous hike. There are few waterfalls along the hike and the main one to see is the Waimoku falls. I recommend to start early, if you are in Kihei leave hotel/condo by 7 am. You will avoid traffic. With narrow roads, it can get pretty slow getting there. Also you will be able to enjoy the scenery with not too many people hiking. Pack lots of water and breakfast. The last stop to grab breakfast before 10 is Grandma's Coffe shop, after that it's about 1-1.5 hours drive to the trail. Bring water shoes and wear shorts if you plan on going to cross some streams. read more
4 years ago
We really enjoyed this hike even in the pouring rain. My sister had no umbrella so she got soaked lol. The bamboo forest is amazing to see and the walkways built in different sections make it an easier hike. This 4 mi RT hike runs next to a stream and there is diverse scenery throughout the hike. I'm usually not impressed by waterfalls either but the really tall Waimoku falls was pretty cool to see. Definitely worth checking out at Haleakala National Park! read more
4 years ago
4 years ago
Highly recommend doing this hike. The waterfall at the end is so rewarding and beautiful! Definitely need to make it all the way to the end past the stream to get to the tallest waterfall. Can't beat walking through so much greenery and even a bamboo forest. The sounds coming from the bamboo forest are mesmerizing . The waterfalls and views are amazing. Don't forget the bug spray and sunblock. Wear proper hiking attire as it can be muddy and slippery, but the hike itself isn't too difficult. Takes about 1 hour 1/2 to 2 hours to complete one way depending on how often you stop and how slow/fast you walk. read more
SPOILER If you've seen my previous hike reviews as much as I am for adventures and the art of getting lost, sometimes I am on a time constraint. Honestly not much of a spoiler, it's a simple 1hr hike....sooo yeah Directions: Once you entered the park you have two paths to choose the trail or the Seven Sacred Pools (No historic name apparently, just marketing purposes). If you get lost, ask the rangers near the parking lot (close to the flag). Hiking Difficulty: Easy It wasn't too bad. It's a family friendly hike just make sure you bring shoes, poncho, and bug spray. It took me about 30 minutes to get to the bamboo forest and another to the waterfall. Probably a two hour trip especially if you take breaks to enjoy nature and take pics. Overall: 5 stars. The trail is pretty simple with pleasant sights to see, unique plants and waterfalls. For those that don't exactly want to trek, this is a pretty good hiking spot in the East side of Maui. TL;DR Tips: * Entry to the national park is $25 but could also take you to the crater if you choose to go. * Check online to see what is open and not. read more
And in the forest, I go...to lose my mind and find my soul! I'm an avid hiker. Give me a hill and I'll climb it! I had this place bookmarked before I got to Maui. It was on my MUST DO LIST! I didn't realize this trail was actually located on the road to Hana. Maybe I should have read some reviews, that way it would have been less confusing. Before I got to Maui, I was like, "where was this road to Hana", "who was this Hana", and "where was I going to see this wonderful bamboo forest"? All your questions will be answered once you get to this trail. That means you got to the end of The Road to Hana. Pipiwai Trail has the most magnificent bamboo forest that leads to a waterfall. Talk about paradise. Calling it beautiful is a bit of an understatement. The best tip I can give you, is it could be slippery when it's raining...actually it WILL be slippery if it's raining. In any hiking condition, you should watch your footing but especially here. I have fallen on my a$$ many times, especially while I'm trying to video some footage for yelp or Instagram! I hiked this trail with a guy friend but I don't think he was prepared to carry me, so I made sure to stop and take my pictures. Ironically when we first started our hike it started to rain which I loved. We weaved our way through humongous Bamboo trees while getting drenched in the rain. I felt like I was in the jungle and it was a surreal feeling with the water falling down on us. Especially, once we hit the top. It was the climax! But it was all worth it once we reached the breathtaking waterfall. I'm glad I didn't bring an umbrella or a poncho, I wanted to feel the whole experience. I kind of felt like I was in a movie. Tip: Don't waste your time going to other waterfalls on the Road to Hana, just stick to this one. It's definitely the best! Aloha! read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
Another cool trail we hit during our trip in Maui! Takes about 3 hrs to reach big waterfall and back. read more
This hike is the only thing you need to do when it comes to the Road To Hana. If you read my review on Road to Hana, you will understand why the whole drive is lame and it IS about the destination (Pipiwai Trail) and not the journey. Anyway, the Pipiwai Trail is the epitome of a simple/great/rewarding/enjoyable hike. Why? 1) Constant uphill which is not too difficult, so you get a decently good workout and feel like you've earned the prize at the end 2) You go through a cool bamboo forest where in parts of it you're walking on these well-constructed and clean platform 3) The beautiful waterfall at the end (Waimoku Falls) makes the annoying drive quick hike (1 hour one way) worth your time/efforts Pipiwai! read more
4 years ago
Easy hike! But beware of mosquitoes. The best part was the view of the waterfall and the bamboo forest. Go there early if you want to avoid the crowd and to take good pictures of the bamboo forest. read more
3 years ago
Amazing time!! Be prepared for mosquitoes and muddy trail. There is so much moisture so dress appropriately. Take lots of water but be aware there is no restroom anywhere on the actual trail. Total hiking time about 2-3 hours. read more
If you love nature then this place is a must. You'll hike four miles round trip so bring plenty of water. Do not arrive too late because the gates close at 5pm and they will lock your vehicle in. So you will hike and end up in a beautiful bamboo forest which I really loved and at the end there is a tall waterfall. Like I said. Come and check it out. Leave nothing but tracks so keep your trash with you and respect mother nature. read more
Awesome trail and awesome waterfall at the end. Wife and I completed this trail comfortably in ~1 hr 45 minutes RT. We decided to head straight for this trail first by taking the back upcountry road (backwards road to Hana). Ride was a little bumpy at times but nothing too harsh, just make sure to take your time and drive with caution during those tight narrow parts. You will need to purchase your way in as this is part of Haleakalā national park. I believe it is $25 per vehicle. Keep your receipt as it is good for 3 days in case you want to go up the dormant volcano of Haleakalā. Make sure you use insect repellant, there were lots of mosquitoes, especially when you get to the bamboo forest. Most of the trail is covered by vegetation so it stays pretty cool in there, not too hot which is nice! Take plenty of water (~4mile hike RT) and some hiking boots or shoes with good traction as there was slick rocks especially towards the end near the waterfall. Overall, this hike was not too hard and very rewarding! Must do! read more
Since the government shutdown happened, national parks were free! This was such a great hike!! It was a well shaded hike so you aren't totally exposed to the sun the entire time. During the hike, you will see many small waterfalls, this giant banyan tree, the bamboo forest, and then the Waimoku waterfall at the end. My favorite part was the bamboo forest, the trail was well paved with wood and it was very peaceful! I know people kept going past the sign at the point when you reached the waterfall saying it was blocked but we didn't go further and turned back since we were on a time crunch. I would say this took us 2 hrs? We stopped a lot to take lots of photos! I would highly recommend this hike to others! I got bit like 9 times so make sure you apply some replant or something before you go. read more
What a beautiful hike!! If you have made the drive to Hana, I personally think it's worth taking the extra time (3-4 hours in total) and hiking Pipiwai Trail. It's beautiful because you will cross a couple of bridges / waterfalls, enter the bamboo forest and end at a massive waterfall. My favorite experience from the hike was experiencing the wind pass through the bamboo forest (the bamboo bended with the wind and created music as its roots and branches moved). The trails can be a bit wet (after rain fall) so if you're going to do this hike - ensure that you have proper shoes (with traction), water, sunscreen and maybe a change of shirt for after the hike. Bug repellent is not required but can be helpful :) Enjoy! read more
This was a beautiful hike. The hike was a gradual incline, moderate hike. I saw a lot of people hiking in flipflops. I recommend shoes because there are rocks and your flipflops might stretch out. I wore water shoes and they were ok. A little pain but doable. Parking was $20. The bamboo was cool. Very tall shoots. The best part was the waterfall at the end. There was a sign stating that you would get fined if you went beyond that point. I wonder what is beyond that point. I bet you get to see the bottom of the waterfall ;P I planned to wear pants before arriving but forgot, so I did end up with a few mosquito bites. I did not wear bug spray. Not too many considering I did not wear bug spray. I'd recommend it though. I just didn't have any. I would have enjoyed the hike more if I wasn't constantly looking at the time. The sun sets earlier than summertime so I wanted to make sure I completed the hike with plenty of time before sunset. read more
Hāna Must Do List: To reach the trailhead you have to pay a $15 entrance fee. The park is maintained by the Park Service. 1. Pipiwai Trail- pass an epic Banyan tree, cross an unreal bamboo forest, wade through a river, and observe Waimoku Falls at the end (if you have enough courage to pass the keep out signs). This hike isn't hard but please wear the proper clothing, shoes and bring plenty of water. 2. Seven Sacred Pools- take the Pipiwai trailhead towards the ocean. Swimming is limited depending on the water level. ------------------------------------------------ 3. Wainapanapa State Park- black sand beach and a cave. Stop at one of the many fruit stands on the way. 4. Red Sand Beach- trailhead near Travaasa Hotel 5. Hāmoa Beach- rated one of the top beaches in the world! read more
Fantastic place! We came super early at 6am and avoided the crowd! Parking is relatively easy and it's $25 to park. It was raining cats and dogs for the past few days we were in Maui so the ground was soggy and rocks were extremely slippery. But despite it all, we were blessed some sun and a rainbow for 30 minutes ! Enough for some pictures! Very relaxing hike! Bring your bug spray, those mosquitoes are HUNGRY! Lol read more
21 tips for enjoying the Pipiwai Trail 1. This trail, located in the Haleakala National Park, is considered the best hike in Maui by many. 2. It is only 9 miles, but a half an hour past Hana, requiring traveling the full extent of the road to Hana, and then 5 miles of 10mph, lane and half road, filled with blind curves, hillside on one side, and guard rail on the other! 3. Entry into the park requires a $10 fee, good for 7 days, and good at the Haleakala crater entrance on the western side of the island. 4. At the base of the trail, is the park visitors center, parking and restrooms -although on the day we came there was no water from the drinking fountains nor the bathroom sinks. Bring your own water, or pay $2 for a 24 ounce version from the Park store. 5. It is best to get here early in the day, when parking is plentiful (160+ spaces) , and when the mosquitos are not at their most active. We left Wailea at 630am, and got here at 930am, with the parking lot virtually empty. 6. Do not come here when it is raining, as the pathway will turn into a morass of mud, and the streams torrentialy strong, and difficult to cross. We waited 5 days before coming here on our final day in Maui, the only day it was not raining in Hana. 7. Do not wear sandals on this hike! Much of the hike is over exposed tree roots. One trip on the roots, and you risk doing a faceplant! Wear closed toe shoes with good gripping soles, as you will be crossing wet rocks. Wearing open toed sandals is an invitation for blackened toenails, and bruised toes! There goes you colored nail pedicures! 8. The wife wears hiking sandals, with closed toes, but exposed sides, and colorful socks underneath. What women do in the name of fashion! 9. She has to stop several times to remove pebbles and dirt that have entered her shoe. She wears a long sleeve shirt and a light full length hiking pants, with zippered bottoms for protection against mosquitos. 10. Me, I'm in shorts, running shoes, and short sleeves, risking looking like a case of small pox, should the mosquitos find me tasty! 11. The trail is 2 miles long, 1 mile to the 200 foot falls, and another mile to the 400 foot falls. The first half is uphill over dirt trails, with exposed tree roots galore, amid the water running downhill. On the sides, are the bamboo forests, first only chest high. 12. You will encounter a large banyon tree with roots 10 feet above the ground. 13. At the 1 mile mark, we come to the twin bridges, overlooking the site of the 200 foot falls, right in your face. People clicking their cameras, smart phones and tablets of a paradise of multiple water falls in the jungle. 14. The second half of the hike is over less steep ground often on wet wooden plank walkways, surrounded on both sides by ever rising forests of bamboo. The bamboo is so dense, that in areas it blocks out the sun, like entering a tunnel, making cracking sounds as they sway in the wind. 15. Eventually the bamboo forests recede, and one is climbing over large rocks and pools of water on the path. Here it is important to have shoes with good traction, as even my running shoes lost their grip on the slippery rocks at times. Well, I was going to leave them in Hawaii anyways. 16. 100 feet before the end of the trail, is a large fast flowing stream. Posted signs warn against crossing when stream is flowing rapidly. Today, the stream is manageable, as even us 60 year olds can cross it by jumping from rock to rock. Not something to try wearing flip flops! 17. The end of the trail is a vista with the 400 foot falls in a distance. Posted signs on a barrier gate warn against crossing the barrier. A few risk takers, continue on to the base of the falls. 18. Returning down the trail toward the visitor center is torture for my gimpy tennis tweaked knees, as the running shoes don't have enough cushion against the shock of of my feet impacting down the trail. Real hiking boots or trail running shoes would help. A lot of the rocks are higher than the 6" maximum stair standards in the home! 19. Toward the end of the trail, we encounter a number of ladies in bikinis. Hope the mosquitos are not biting in the heat of the afternoon! I start oogling one particularly well endowed lady, before my wife give me a kick in the back of the shoes, to keep moving! 20. 90 minutes to the top of the trail, 75 minutes to the bottom, and another half hour at next door Ole'o Gulch, or Seven Pools Sacred Springs, where the Haleakala crater lava flow meets the Pacific Ocean. 21. We leave at 130pm to endure the torture of the road to Hana once more, and get back to Wailea by 415pm. Next time, I'll have the wife do the driving! read more
12 years ago
Being pretty much the last stop on the Road to Hana, it's best to plan ahead. There are way too many scenic places to explore on the way here so try to allow time to get to this trail at least 3 hours before sundown. Parking is $10 but is good for 3 days at any of the Haleakala National Park areas (including the Summit). Things to bring would be hiking shoes for the hike and aqua shoes if you plan to get in the pools. Mosquito repellent is highly recommended with all the bugs you'll encounter along the trail, plus you'll need drinking water, sunblock, and a hat. The trail itself is easy with just a few inclines but plan to walk for about 2 hrs or so, round trip. Beautiful views of the falls and 7 sacred pools will be had here but please be careful as there has been quite a few accidents. You'll see signs of warning everywhere. A huge Banyan Tree will be something you'll come across on this trail as well so you might want to bring your camera for some great photo opportunities. We started our hike a bit late and by the time we got to the bamboo forest, it was almost sundown. Being in the midst of the woods was already dark even when the sun was out due to the density of the bamboos, but no doubt was it a breathtaking sight to behold. We ended our hike there and walked back down, however, we heard from fellow hikers that the big falls would have been a 20-minute walk from there. Something to definitely come back for in Maui! read more
The Must-Do hike in Maui! Its 4 miles total, 2 miles up and 2 miles down. I would say its "Easy" but there is some fairly steep climbing in the first mile going up, but it gets easier after that. Infinity Pools - Before you go through the gate leading to the waterfalls, take the short path on your right to get to these pools. Unfortunately, the water was too stagnant to go in this time, but it was pretty. Bamboo Forrest - Groooovy! Waimoku Falls - Your reward after your 2 miles...jump in! Words can't describe the above....so please just checkout my photos, and everyone else's! :) Its a $10 fee per car to get into Haleaka National Park, but its good for 3 days, so be sure to visit the Haleaka crater in the next day or two. FYI: There seemed to be several unofficial trails on the Pipiwai Trail...I think there were several potential hotspots for an outdoor Afternoon Delight with your special someone. (Though I'm not speaking from experience! ;-) ) *********** CHUN P's PRE-PIPIWAI HIKE CHECKLIST********* 1. BUG REPELLENT: BRING IT!!!!!! Since the day I was born mosquitos and bugs have loved to snack on me! In Hawaii, they are fierce. I sprayed all my exposed skin with "OFF!" bug repellant that had a 25% DEET rating. But these little fuckers are so fierce that they got me through my Hanes t-shirt and socks, and even flew up my shorts to get me! So wear cheap clothes and spray your clothes too! 2. SUNSCREEN...I always use 70-100 SPF...I have no idea why 90% of yall only use 15 and 30SPF. 3. WATER...duh! 4. ENERGY BARS / FOOD...you never know! 5. HIKING BOOTS:...and laugh at the people struggling in flip flops! 6. WATER SHOES:...you don't want to cut your feet in the pools nor ruin your manicure. read more
Activity Type: Hiking Nearby City: Kipahulu Length: 3.6 total miles Elevation Gain: Minimal Trail Type: Out-and-back Skill Level: Easy Season: All year Other Uses: None Local Contacts: Kipahulu Section Haleakala National Park This is the best day hike on Maui. It takes you up alongside Pipiwai Stream, first through a guava orchard, then through a magical, musical bamboo forest, and on to an enchanting pool at the base of Waimoku Falls. Try to go early in the morning so you can savor the place in solitude. The Pipiwai Trail, above Seven Sacred Pools, follows the Pipiwai Stream and is one of the best hikes on Maui. It is 4 miles roundtrip, gaining 650-feet in elevation. It takes 2 1/2 - 5 hours to hike, depending on how much nature loving you do. The final destination is the fantastic Waimoku Falls. This gigantic waterfall drops 400-feet down a sheer lava rock wall into a boulder-strewn pool. A large, rocky hill overlooks the bottom of the falls and the pool below. Recent rainfall greatly influences the size and strength of the falls. Never stand under the waterfall as there is the possibility of falling rocks or debris. But I did a quick swim in the pool and I'm glad I did it! Once in a lifetime thing to do..! Awesome experience! read more
#16/100 yelp challenge This is one of the must do in Maui if you are already in Hana. It is about 20 min drive from Hana bay. The fee at entrance is $15 per car which will cover for entree to the Haleakala as well. The trail is about 4 miles round trip from the parking to Wamoku falls and back. It is easy hike but it can be rocky and slippery. From then entrance, you hike up hill to the Makahiku fall or O'heo Gulch about 0.5 mile then to the bamboo forest is another 0.5 mile. From the bamboo forest to the Wamoku fall is about 0.8-1 mile which is your prize of this hike. When we visited the park, the water was roaring, so they do not allow visitors to swim in the O'heo Gulch or any of the falls due to some recent fatal incidents. There is beautiful vegetations along the trails, huge mango trees, banyan tree, and ancient bamboo forest. The trail is well shaded but can be hot. So bring hat, water, and sunblock. You also will need some hiking shoes although we saw people hiking with flip-flops and they did not look like having any fun! It tools us about 3+ hours with some play times and photo ops! We then drove from here to the Haleakala for sunset (took about 2+ hour drive)! read more
5 years ago
This was such a beautiful hike! Scenic in every step. The waterfall at the end was just so beautiful and calming to l read more
3 years ago
Spectacular!!! One of the best hikes on Maui. Make the time for this and go early. Waterfalls, bamboo forests and if you are lucky, wild pigs. read more
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Ask the Community - Pipiwai Trail
Can a just turned 2 year old and 5 year old do this hike?
No - it's steep and slippery. The edge of the trail is often passing close to the edge of a steep cliff.
Do you have to have a tour guide at Pipiwai Trail?
No - it's a national park and you pay to enter by car or by foot. Then you tour on your own.
Review Highlights - Pipiwai Trail
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Pipiwai Trail - hiking - Updated August 2026
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