Pipiwai Trail
4.8(475)google
4.8(229)yelp
HikingForestWaterfall
Overview
The Pipiwai Trail is a 4-mile (6.4 km) (round trip) hiking trail located on the island of Maui in the U.S. State of Hawaii. The hike leads up to the Makahiku Falls and Waimoku Falls. The trail is located in Haleakalā National Park and is generally well maintained.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration2.5-4 hours
Best TimeHitting this legendary bamboo forest trail between 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM from May to October is highly recommended. Starting early avoids peak humidity and allows you to hike the expansive wooden boardwalks under soft, dappled morning rays before massive crowds arrive, culminating at the breathtaking 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
Getting ThereThe trailhead sits deep past Hana town within the Kipahulu District of Haleakalā National Park. Drive along the Hana Highway (HI-360) until it becomes Route 31, terminating directly at the park gate near Mile 42. A large, paved federal parking lot is provided, with entry fees covered by a valid Haleakalā park pass.
Travel Tips
- Transiting the 5 miles of unpaved, deeply rutted dirt paths requires a high-clearance 4WD; standard rental contracts explicitly forbid driving on this road, meaning any breakdown or beach stranding results in complete insurance forfeiture and premium out-of-pocket recovery fees.
- This remote coastline lacks protective reefs, developing violent shorebreaks and lethal currents with zero lifeguard towers; there is no potable water or grid power, making swimming strictly suicide and requiring self-sufficient supply packing.
- Heavy afternoon trade winds turn loose sand into a highly abrasive blast that damages camera glass and vehicle paint; if operating an authorized 4WD on soft sand tracts, dropping tire pressure to 15 PSI is mandatory to prevent getting bogged down.
Reviews
Positive
- Walking through a massive towering bamboo forest to the foot of the 442-foot Waimoku Falls offers top-tier, authentic visual awe.
- The park built beautiful elevated wooden boardwalks, protecting the rainforest ecology and easing the hike with immense fun.
- Part of Haleakala's coastal district, entry is covered by the park pass; signs are clear and safety warnings are well-placed.
- Far from city noise, it retains pure, uncommercialized rainforest peace and wilderness vibe, offering massive core value.
Heads up
- The location is extremely remote at the end of Hana Highway; driving from West Maui resorts takes 3-4 grueling hours each way.
- The 4-mile round-trip features constant inclines, exposed tree roots, and slippery mud, posing severe challenges for mobility-impaired guests.
- There are zero restrooms or water stations along the trail; the only eco-toilets sit at the base visitor center, lacking mid-way utilities.
- Deep in the rainforest, humidity is stifling and bugs are rampant; without heavy insect repellent, the hike becomes miserable.