Upcountry refers to the areas in higher elevation on East Maui, generally the area around the towns of Makawao, Pukalani, and Kula. Elevations range from 1500’ to nearly 7000’. This rainier part of Maui contains some of the best alpine rainforests on Maui. Upcountry is the place to get your green fix.

This site has four hikes in Upcountry Maui:

• Waihou Spring Trail: This relatively easy trail loop through rainforest has a side trip to a beautiful gorge under a natural spring.

• Kahakapao Trail Loop: This longer trail loop is shared with mountain bikers and offers a moderate rainforest hike.

• Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area: Another moderate loop hike at a high-altitude destination with a wealth of introduced tree species.

• Boundary Trail: This long hike in the Kula Forest Reserve is also the way to access Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area with a two-wheel drive vehicle. It’s a high altitude adventure that traces the boundary of the Kula Forest Reserve.