If you plan on taking it all in, its just way too much to do in one day. The trail alternates between compacted dirt and boardwalk trails. The Pipiwai Trail- with its stunning waterfalls, huge bamboo forest, idyllic stream, and more beauty than you can imagine- is simply one of the best hikes on Maui. Best bet is to check the Haleakala National Park website the day prior to your trip for real-time closure info. I was wondering how difficult it is to cross the stream? 1 year ago Save Just did this today - left northernmost Kihei at 6:40, got to the Pipiwai at about 10. For more things to do in Haleakala National Park, with recommendations on how to plan your time, read our Guide to Haleakala National Park. Read all of our articles about the United States in our United States Travel Guide. The park opens officially at 9 but they were letting people in early when we arrived. Is it worth the 2 hour trip out? This 400 foot waterfall is one of the tallest in Maui. MAMMOTH CAVE KY The location of the Ppwai Trail and Kpahulu District is important, because this part of the national park has operating hours. $. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. With some precautionary measures, your hike will be both safe and fun. The pool at the base is shallow people wade in and stand under the falls, though the park service now has a highly ignored sign in the middle of the trail when you approach stating not to pass the sign. Are there benches anywhere? and a great banyan tree for climbing right on the trail about 1/3 of the way up. This is the only tour available that offers a hiking opportunity in the Kipahulu Section of Haleakala National Park. At this point in the hike, you've reached the bamboo forest at the Pipiwai Trail. :) and its free! The park service has been known to close down the Pipiwai Trail during particularly wet periods since the hike is in a high-risk flood area. Parking is $10 per vehicle and is valid for 3 days at any of the Haleakala National Park areas, so save your receipt if you've already gone up to the crater or plan to. Instead of being on a stem that terminates from a minor branch, like most fruit, mountain apples grow on a small stem directly out of the main branches (and even the trunk) of the `ohi`a `ai tree. Spend some time in the mysterious, zen-like oasis before continuing out of the forest and towards Waimoku Falls. Wear comfy sneakers and clothes. The last entry into the park is at 4:30 pm (get updated hours before you go on the National Park Service website). Not only do I get to live in such a beautiful place, I get to pursue my passion of helping people buy and sell real estate. It's at the Kipahulu end of the Road to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Its a beautiful walk and best part of this hike, in my opinion. Try to get there by 10 am or earlier for heat comfort. Some people decide to swim on their way, either in rivers or at the very end under the fall. There will be signs pointing you in the correct direction of the trail, which begins just across the street from the parking lot. Just beyond the Makahiku Falls Viewpoint, you reach a giant Banyan tree. Contact us today to make your reservation! 13 Amazing Things to Do in Haleakala National Park, Maui Bucket List: 20 Best Things to do in Maui, Hawaii, Ultimate Maui Itinerary: How to Plan Your Perfect Trip to Maui. Find out what we carry in our day packs and what we wear on the trails. The parking lot was about 1/3 full and I was actually surprised at how many cars were already here. Hana airport is the closest, however, if youre not flying in from another island to stay in Hana specifically, youll likely want to drive from where you stay. You basically walk up through a bamboo forest to a truly amazing waterfall. 14 . Continuing along the trail youll notice the scenery changing to bamboo. The Pipiwai Trail cuts though an immense and unforgettable bamboo forest, The stream is a string of pools and waterfalls, In a nutshell: Pipiwai Trail is a treasure of the National Park System that passes through diverse scenery and culminates at the base of an absolutely spectacular waterfall. Aloha Mark, Location: 6300 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708. Thanks, Aloha Joanne it depends how used to hiking or fit the children are. Bamboo Forest Maui Guide: Fun Hike to the Massive 400 Foot Waterfall You can access all kinds of info about Hana by looking at the Top Questions on the right hand side of this page, same for the Hana Forum. Photo Credit: Sue Salisbury Maui Hawaii. This trail does have some shade but there are sections where you will be exposed to the sun. Thank you! Key Info: (for trailhead @ HNP Kipahulu.) We recommend wearing shoes with good grip that you dont mind getting wet as there is a stream section you will have to cross to get a closer view of the waterfall. I would like to hike the bamboo Forrest. This first part of the trail is mostly uphill. Also located in the Kpahulu District is a walking trail that leads to the Seven Sacred Pools at Oheo. Back On The Trail It's 30.00 and is good for a year. There is nothing specifically of danger to note if you stay on the trail, but things can happen in wilderness. Answer 1 of 9: I was wondering how to get from Pipiwai trail from Kihei? Since the Pipiwai Trail is a part of Haleakala National Park, an entry fee is required. FLORIDA, U.S. NATIONAL PARK SITES In fact, when youve reached the end, youre smack at the base of the falls, and can walk right up and stand under them. We went in late Sept. From thrift-store shopping to making breakfast, UVa's seniors have Pipiwai Trail Reviews | U.S. News Travel How did your day go- and would you have changed anything? I have googled it but have heard to not trust the google maps drive times when it comes to RTH! Here's a good online guidebook: http://mauiguidebook.com/things-to-do/road-to-hana-region/. The NPS has even built a boardwalk to span the muddy sections and have been adding more stone steps in the steeper grade areas in the past couple years oooh the luxury! Considering the variety of scenery and maintenance of the pathway, Pipiwai Trail is often hailed as one of the best hikes on Maui. Maui Hiking: Pipiwai Trail - Kihei Rent A Car At least one of the stops was at a waterfall, lol. Sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat. I will warn, the road is windy at some places and not everyone can handle doing this trip more than once. THEODORE ROOSEVELT ND Its also the hottest, since it is the sunniest part of the trail. Hike the Pipiwai Trail. A lot of people choose to drive straight through to Oheo Gulch, do the hike, and then drive back the way you came, making extra stops along the way. Really want to do this hike but concerned about my level of fitness for incline hiking. From Kihei it took us about seven hours to get to Hana stopping for a hike in the bamboo forest to the first 2 waterfalls and a swim (about 2 hours) and a stop at Twin Falls for another swim (about 1 hour.) To reserve call 808-248-7375. Exploring Maui: Things You need to Know About As a New Resident! * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. The town has a rich history, dating back to ancient times when it was a center for Hawaiian royalty. I highly recommend wearing hiking shoes or a pair of shoes that you dont mind getting muddy. The National Park Service has done a fantastic job maintaining the trail, but venturing off of the designated path can be hazardous due to flash flooding, rock falls, and other natural dangers. Im looking for about a 2 hour hike somewhere beautiful thats not super hard. Many rental car companies use to prohibit traveling on that road. Reservations for sunrise 3 to 7 a.m. daily accepted. The trail goes through a beautiful bamboo forest and ends at. . We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. In this guide, learn how to plan a trip around the world. At the entrance booth you will pay the park entrance fee. This author (and a Park Service sign a safe distance from the falls) suggest you seriously consider how all the countless boulders youre standing in front of got there. Have a blast! This narrow stretch of road on the northwest side of Maui is for the experienced driver, but a great alternative to Road to Hana. The National Park Service recommends starting this hike no later than 3 pm, in order to give yourself enough time to complete the hike and exit the park before the gate closes. Being a Realtor on Maui is a dream come true for me. Over years, a banyans aerial prop roots form into new trunks of their own, expanding continually outward. Pipiwai Trail & Waimoku Falls | Maui Guidebook Just looking for a rough estimate, thanks. Either lot is fine but the lower lot is closer to the visitor center and restrooms. Located above the Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools), Pipiwai Trail is 4 miles roundtrip and gains 650 ft. of elevation. That being said, you will probably need to fly into the Kahului Airport (OGG) and either rent a car or hitch-hike to the trail head. If you get to the Pipiwai trail hike too late to do it, I imagine you will have had a very satisfying day and wont be sorry! If you do choose to return the way you came, driving the Hana Highway at dark isn't something you want to do, trust us. At the four way stop in town make a right on to Olinda Road. If we leave at 5 in the morning, we are going to need at least one potty stop. ARIZONA So you have to pay 25.00 admission . This site has been very helpful. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Maybe avoid the side trails. We overnighted here so wed be able to relax and enjoy the trip. Maui vs Kauai: Epic Island Showdown to Choose a Vacation You'll LOVE The trail begins just across the road from the parking lot, and you dont have to walk very far (just over a half mile) before you come to the first set of large and impressive waterfalls: the Falls at Makahiku. Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. The east side of Maui is lush and green because it rains frequently. The Waimoku Falls hike passes the 185-footMakahiku Fallswhich is also beautiful. YELLOWSTONE WY Hi Jackson mom--I grew up in Clinton, but haven't been back in a while! Mahalo! On google maps, there is Ppwai Trailand the Kipahulu Visitor Center. Bamboo forest is magical. At 0.5 miles you reach the overlook of the Makahiku Falls. Alex, (Again, 5 minutes per destination except the last hike). Continuing along the trail past a couple of bridges, youll start to notice scattered groves of bamboo, which will eventually turn into a thick bamboo forest. The Kpahulu District is open from 9 am to 5 pm. Basically, the hike to Waimoku is the Makahiku hike extended about 1 1/2 miles. We are staying at the Grand Wailea resort. This means that its really not difficult to find the Pipiwai trailhead. I don't mind buying something where we stop! And in this part of Maui, it rains quite frequently. If they can walk 3-4 miles then they should be fine doing the whole thing there is a lot of interesting scenery (even for kids!) ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88162835', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car insurance if you do, and it doesn't save you any time. You park at the Haleakala National Park Visitor Center (again this is a different Visitor Center than the one on the way to Haleakala Crater). This 4 mile trail runs along a section of the King's Highway. PEARL HARBOR HI Just so you know what to look for they dont call em mountain apples for nothing theyre (mostly) red and are shaped like a cross between an apple and a pear. It gains 650 feet in elevation in just under 4 miles of trail. GULF ISLANDS FL Depending on fitness level, the hike can take anywhere from two to five hours to complete (though we recommend taking your time to enjoy the sights and snap some photos). Your humor and descriptive writing are perfect! The powerful waterfall flows from 400 feet up, spraying cool mist from yards away. No stops were planned , but had to stop twice - one of the kids was very nauseous. Not to hike the Pipiwai Trail or visit the Kipahulu District, although you should get here early to get a parking space. See more about driving the Road to Hana in reverse. Super recommended to download the Shaka Guide app for insightful history and helpful tips for sightseeing spots. The trail follows the Pipiwai Stream and is a fantastic hike on Maui. Begin the hike by accessing the trailhead across the road from the parking lot, and after about half a mile youll be in sight of Makahiku Falls. Located above theOheo Gulch(Seven Sacred Pools),Pipiwai Trail is 4 miles roundtrip andgains650ft. ofelevation. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Also--the trail is in the National Park. Thanks Megan. Make bee-line for State Park. If youre a tree climber (or you have some in-tow like I usually do) youll be spending more than a couple minutes here. MICHIGAN We saw all sorts of natural treasures including guava, coffee trees, mango, lilikoi, and this hibiscus flower. Pipiwai Trail from Kihei? Or other hikes we could do? - Maui Forum As the trail continues winding, if you pay careful attention the bamboo will begin to thin and trees will start coming back. You will probably have to cross the stream in two places before you can get right up under the falls. If youre not fit enough to continue another mile (the hike back is all downhill, so we wont count that!) Alternatively, you can drive Highway 37 along the south coast to get to the Kpahulu District. I will be visiting again this December and would be so sad if I couldnt see the bamboo again :), Yes, the Pipiwai Trail is open, I just confirmed that on the NPS website. Ive been reading that its now closed, though, but I see this page was last updated just a few weeks ago, so Im hoping its current. You may want to download offline google maps before you go (its free), as you will likely not have data for most if not all of your drive on the Hana Highway. were planning to visit the park during Thanksgiving week but with COVID19 restriction, not sure its worth the drive since some of the area will be closed especially the 7 scared pools. Road to Hana: Best Things to Do, Map, Photos & is It Worth It? more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. not sure if that will always be the case. Faster coming down. It is definitely a value at the price of a few extra steps. What locations on the way to Pipiwai are good for bathrooms that early. Im in Hana now. It will probably be easier to find someone heading your direction from Hana anyway. Lahaina is a town located on the western coast of the island and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maui. Distance: 4 miles out and back Time: Plan for about 2-4 hours, depending on how muddy the trail is and how much time you take at the waterfall and along the way. I did because its gorgeous and I took my sweet time to bask and absorb it all in. Aloha Mark, The other side is one lane for miles (with plenty of two way traffic), it is not well maintained and very very bumpy, it is prone to issues with debris in the road and washed out bridges which require a smidge of offroading. Im going back this May for my honeymoon and would love to explore the side trails this time! Once youve cooled down and are ready to continue, you reverse the path from where you came. Use the restroom at the visitors center before setting out on the hike; there are none on the trail. Over time, these majestic trees gained their own special place in Hawaiian myths and legends. Aloha! Most Internet sources say it takes 2 1/2 . The Kpahulu District is one of the main stops on the Road to Hana. Aloha Jen it really is wonderful year-round. Although the hike has plenty of covered areas, be sure to pack sunscreen and dont forget the bug spray. You can get here by driving the Road to Hana. Are there any other hikes that are more. The trailhead for the Ppwai Trail is located to the left of the Visitor Center. There are only a few choice people Id advise to attempt jumping here (and it isnt because theyre skilled jumpers!). WHAT TO WEAR SNORKELING Visit the Pools of 'Ohe'o | The Seven Sacred Pools in Maui Phone: 808-572-4400 Are there any hot springs in Maui? - 2023 From Khei it didnt take more than half an hour or so to get to the trailhead. By the time we reached the parking lot (at 11:15) the parking lot was completely full and a long line of cars were lined up in front of the entrance gate. Banyans originate in India, and first came to the islands as gifts to Hawaiian royalty from Indian royalty. The first half-mile is a little steep. Its a great hike. We've updated both travel guides with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and those who've been a time or two as well). GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS TN NC For the next half mile, you walk through this mystical bamboo forest. There is the normal parking lot right by the Kipahulu Visitor Center, and there is also an overflow parking lot. If over on West side/Kaanapali leave at 630 am or 6. About one mile into the hike, the landscape is about to make a dramatic change. Paddleboarders fend off 15-foot shark in 'terrifying' encounter Is this still a worthwhile trip and hike? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-88173006', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Hana anyway, the Pipiwai trail is one of the best and moderate hikes on Maui. Not worried about the distance. On the summit side is where you will find the Haleakala summit (of course) and the famous Haleakala crater hike. Pools of 'Ohe'o (aka Seven Sacred Pools) | Maui Guidebook Longitude: -156.0437936. This can be confusing because Haleakala National Park is actually split into two parts. I am going next year with a large group of all ages. The Pipiwai Trail is truly one of a kind as it takes you through a bamboo forest that ends spectacularly at the 400-foot Waimoku Falls. The first part was under the heat and sun, but when you get deeper into the forest (and especially bamboo forests), then its more comfortable. Water. One of the easiest ways to access the pools is via the Pipiwai Trail. Shortly after starting the Ppwai Trail, you will cross Hana Highway. This will get you a 3 day Haleakala pass, and you can use it to visit both the Kipahulu side and the summit side of the national park. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. The trail is just mauka the Hana Hwy at Haleakala National Park Kipahulu (Seven Sacred Pools.) ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-110524812', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Kihei at 6:40, got to the Pipiwai at about 10. Many people are familiar with the Haleakal crater, which is famous for its sunrises and hiking trails that lead into the crater. You'll need about 2-3 hours to hike Pipiwai at a relaxing pace and get back again (or continue around the Pi'ilani Highway, which re-opened October 4, 2008). Both my husband and I are quite fit and are interested in doing one hike while we are here. Just note that you could be violating the terms of your rental car agreement if you drive Highway 360. To Makahiku Falls Viewpoint From the trailhead, it is a 0.5 mile walk to the first viewpoint of the hike, the Makahiku Falls Viewpoint. Pipiwai Trail from Kihei? Or other hikes we could do? It has absolutely been my favorite part of the vacation so far. Book now. In 2021, an individual pass costs $30 per vehicle. Your email address will not be published. Find parking at the Kipahulu Visitors Center at Haleakala National Park for $25 per car. Private Bamboo Forest Hike | Pipiwai Trail In Haleakala National Park Driving directly from Kaanapali to Pipiwai Trail might be a little over 3 hours with minimal traffic, by way of Paia. We went last week and we made it from our condo in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Yes, it is an absolutely gorgeous spot but certainly not a safe place for every tourist regardless of age and physical condition. This includes packing out what you bring to the hiking trail, be considerate of other hikers, and leaving archaeological artifacts as you found them. It can be accessed by driving 12 miles past the town of Hna, on the famous Hna Highway that circumscribes the northeast coast of the island of Maui. Thank you. MIKE KROPF, THE DAILY PROGRESS Virginia's Kihei Clark (0) shoots a basket while North Carolina's Rechon "Leaky" Black (1) tries to defend during the second half of an NCAA college . Kihei to Pipiwai trail - Maui Forum - Tripadvisor PIPIWAI TRAIL: Bamboo Forest, Banyan Tree, & Waimoku Falls Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve. So youre off to hike the Pipiwai Trailthat is one of the best hikes on Maui! The proper name of this attraction is 'Ohe'o (Oh-Hey-Oh). On way back. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. The out-and-back hike is located in the Kipahulu region of Haleakal National Park. aloha! This state park, located upcountry As a family-owned business, we understand the budget challenges of vacationing in Hawaii. Because of the marshy ground, wooden boardwalks have been built to make hiking easier. Distance from Kihei to Pipiwai Trail? - Maui Forum - Tripadvisor My favorite time to hike the bamboo forest is in February. I hope you have a great trip. The trail can be slippery at certain areas due to the on and off rain, so make sure you bring proper hiking shoes, or shoes that have some decent traction.