Launiupoko is a lush valley on the southwestern side of West Maui. This is the kind of spot that gives rise to Maui’s nickname - The Valley Isle. Few people venture into the upper reaches of this densely verdant gorge. The hike begins inside a private neighborhood where residents graciously allow access to hikers. From the neighborhood trailhead, the route climbs steeply past the ancient ahupua’a (land subdivision) of Launiupoko preserved as an archaeological district. This route is shared with equestrians. After passing a reservoir, the trail climbs into lush Launiupoko Valley as you parallel Launiupoko stream. The hike ends when the trail becomes too overgrown for normal travel. The views of the West Maui coastline and Lānaʻi island are staggering on the return trip.

Trailhead: From Hwy. 30 east of Lahaina, find Kai Hele Ku Street near mile marker 18. Turn mauka (uphill) and travel for about two miles, staying on Kai Hele Ku Street. Keep your speed low in this residential neighborhood. Turn right onto Wailau Street and drive a few hundred yards until the road goes slightly downhill. Locate three or four parking spots off the side of the road across from a trailhead sign. Don’t park elsewhere in the neighborhood. There is another parking area along Kai Hele Ku Street if this is full. Poor behavior by visitors is sure to threaten future access. There are no services at this trailhead, so pack out all your trash and use the restroom elsewhere on the way to the trailhead. The trailhead is open only during daylight hours.

Weather

Gear: Standard hiking gear. You’ll want boots for the rough trail. Bring lots of water and sun protection. Don’t forget the rain gear.

Hike: Cross the road and find the trailhead sign for the “Big Steve Memorial Trail.” Hike the trail along the dry streambed for more than a half mile and intersect a neighborhood road. Follow the signs along the road toward the rest of the trail and don’t disturb any of the residents. The trail cuts across and above the ancient ahupua’a (land subdivision) of Launiupoko, preserved as an archaeological district. It descends to the northern side of the reservoir. Hike around the reservoir and find an old road heading into the valley. Within a quarter mile of the reservoir, find an ancient site on the left side of the trail. There is a small clearing with some rock walls. Touch nothing and stay off all rock walls.

From here, follow the gradually vanishing trail into the upper valley. Take extreme care if you choose to continue. There are points where the “trail” is inches from huge falls that are obscured by the dense vegetation. Choose your route carefully, watch your footing closely, take your time, and turn around at an appropriate spot. The views on the way out of the valley of Lānaʻi are incredible. Return the way you came. Respect private property owners.