Kīpahulu District is a detached portion of Haleakalā National Park accessible southwest of Hāna. It is not possible to access Kīpahulu from the main area of the park. This district offers the best waterfall hike on Maui as well as a sculpted lava coastline with several ancient sites. Kīpahulu means “fetch from exhausted gardens,” and the area housed many people in ancient times in a large farming community. Kīpahulu is one of the best natural places on Maui. Don’t just stop on a Road to Hāna marathon drive — spend some time here to appreciate it.

Trailhead: Southwest of Hāna on Hwy. 360, find the signed entrance to Kīpahulu District near the 42 mile marker. The trailhead has restrooms but no drinking water. The Visitor Center is open from 9am-5pm. Camping is available. There is a fee of $25 per car, $20 per motorcycle, and $12 per person on foot.

Weather

Gear: Standard hiking gear. The trails are rough and slick, so sturdy shoes are appropriate. Bring plenty of water and sun protection. Don’t forget the raingear and mosquito repellent.

Hikes:

• Pīpīwai Trail: This is the main hiking attraction in Kīpahulu, leading to magical 400’ Waimoku Falls. The hike follows Pīpīwai stream. From the parking area, find the trail departing to the east side and then heading toward the highway. The trail crosses the highway. After 2/3 mile, find the overlook for 200’ Makahiku Falls. Eventually pass a gate and find an enormous Banyan tree where selfish tourists have carved their names. Don’t add to them. The gorge becomes more narrow as you hike over two foot bridges. Pass through a quaking bamboo forest on a raised boardwalk. The density of the bamboo is astounding. Make two stream crossings at a confluence and then find 400’ Waimoku Falls at the base of a steep amphitheater. (Be careful here and at other points along the hike because of flash flood danger). Note all of the large boulders at the base of the falls — they came from the top of the cliffs. In other words, stay away from the base of the falls. Marvel at the waterfall and return the way you came. This trail is 3.5 miles round-trip and 650’ in elevation gain.

• Kūloa Point Trail: This short trail travels from the parking area to the edge of 'Ohe'o Gulch. Gaze down at the picturesque area. 'Ohe'o Gulch and the erroneously named “Seven Sacred Pools” have been closed indefinitely because of dangerous conditions. The short trail passes by several ancient sites. This trail is 1/2 mile and 80’ of elevation gain.

• Kahakai Trail: This trail connects to the Kūloa Point Trail and travels along the beautiful coastline past several ancient sites to the campground. Connect back to the parking area on the campground road. This hike is 1/2 mile and 80’ of elevation gain.