The Hawaiian islands are a global hotspot in terms of natural beauty. With pretty much every geological or natural feature you can think of, there is so much to do in this tropical corner of the world, and so much to see of these island wonders.
One of the best and most popular ways of seeing this greatness for yourself is through one of the many hikes that you can find across the islands, whether they have guided tours of the state parks that little the archipelago, or even trails that you can take for yourself.
There are so many that it can be a little daunting just to pick a few for your vacation or day off.
Well, this guide is here to solve that little problem of yours. We’re going to go over the best hikes that you can take today on the island of Maui so that you can see Hawaii’s landscapes for yourself!
Wai’anapanapa State Park Trail
Starting our list, we have one of the many trails that run along the famous ‘Road to Hana’, the Wai’anapanapa state park trails.
This trail is probably best known for its famous black sand beach, which gets its name from the black sand that has eroded from a millennia-old lava flow that has since fractured into the gorgeous dark sandy shore that gets so many visitors every year.
However, there’s more to do than just check out a beach on this trail.
With plenty of incredible lava rock formations and tropical vegetation that has been twisted and shaped by the elements in a way unlike anywhere else in the world, as well as lava caves and sea arches, there is plenty to feast your eyes and hiking boots on here!
Waihe’e Ridge Trail
If you are looking for a trail that isn’t too challenging to take, but will still need a little effort to complete, then you should consider the Waihe’e Ridge trail.
Whilst finding parking can be a little difficult to find, as it is somewhat out of the way, it is certainly worth the effort to find it.
The glorious views, the gorgeous plant life that surrounds you, and makes you feel like you are some great expedition, partly because you kind of are!
Make sure that you have all the appropriate essentials when taking this path, though. The wind side of the West Maui mountains that this trial will take you on are often wetter, which can mean muddy and slippery conditions, especially if it has been raining recently.
Like any hike that is at least somewhat treacherous, make sure that you do not travel alone on this trail, and make sure that you respect any private property that you pass by.
‘Iao Valley State Park
If you are looking for a trial that is sure to provide a challenge, as well as take up an entire day of hiking, then you need to see the ‘Iao Valley, State Park.
Not only is the area a place of stunning natural beauty, but it is a place of historical importance too.
It was in the valleys and mountains that King Kamehameha first conquered the warriors and soldiers of Maui, which became part of the Hawaiian ruler’s kingdom that spanned across the archipelagos.
As a result, the forest has a deep spiritual and cultural significance to many islanders and native Hawaiians, something that has to be experienced firsthand to fully appreciate.
So, if long hikes and history, as well as waterfalls and foliage, are your thing, this is a hike that should be at the top of your to-do list.
La Perouse Bay Trails
If you love hiking, but you want some true Hawaiian landscape that isn’t just a sea of (admittedly gorgeous) greenery, then perhaps a look at La Perouse, and what exactly the aftermath of an old volcano looks like after hundreds of years.
This trail is unique because of the distinct lava flow rock that you’ll find along the path. This flow is the remnants of one of Mount Haleakala’s more recent eruptions from the late 18th century, which created the iconic jagged rocks that are now seen across the trail.
There are even monuments to the ruins of people whose homes and communities were once devastated by the eruption, as well as those that tried to make their homes there after the eruption.
So, if you want to take a hike where the history of the island is burned into the land, then you should consider this trail!
Pipiwai Trail & Waimoku Falls
What could be better than a hike through nature? Well, how about a hike through nature with a waterfall at the end of it!
The Pipipwai trail is a trail that will present a decent challenge to most of the people that are looking to get out there and experience the forests of Maui.
With plenty of iconic natural features, from giant banyan trees to the tick and gorgeous bamboo forests, there is plenty of eye-catching and luscious vegetation that you will see.
Not only that, but the 400-foot waterfall at the deepest point of this trial will make any scratches or bug bites you get worth it!
Haleakala Sliding Sands Hiking Trail
Finally, we have another trail that is perfect for folks that want something a little different from the usual dense forests.
With a final elevation of over 10,000 feet and grassy meadows that change the rocky slopes, this trail has such a massive amount of variety to it.
Make sure that you pack refreshments, though, as this 6-mile hike may take a while!
Final Thoughts
Even on Maui alone, there is so much for you to do and see on the amazing island. So grab your boots, grab a hiking bag, and get going out there!
Hi, my name is Richard Ennis and I have been to Hawaii eleven times so far. I have always been fascinated with the world of Hawaii, ever since I was a young boy learning about it in school.
So, please enjoy my website and marvel at the state of Hawaii - if I convince you to plan your own trip out there, hope to see you soon!
