Pipiwai Trail — Local services in Maui

Please DO NOT drive to Pipiwai Trail on the backside of  Haleakala National Park! I accidentally drove on this road in light rain because I was following google map's direction.  It's extremely dangerous and there are a few segments of dirt road.  The roads on the back side are all narrow --basically they are one way road used as two-way road with many blind curves (WITHOUT mirrors!!!) and falling rock areas.  There are a few narrow one-way roads along the cliffs without rails, which are extremely dangerous.  I would recommend joining guided tours so you can take pictures along the way.   The rest of the road to Hana is just curvy paved road with many one-way bridges, which is OK to drive.  But I would still recommend joining a guided tour group so you can take pictures of multiple waterfalls along the way. Another reason that the road to hana is difficult to drive is because there are lots of rude/reckless (I am assuming tourist) drivers on the road who are driving at very high speed around blind curves or try to pass illegally or to tailgate. Not sure why these rude drivers are in such hurry to go anywhere during vacation; it seems that the only thing that's on vacation is their manner.

We arrived Pipiwai Trail a bit after 9 AM. I would recommend wearing proper footwear—definitely NO open toe shoes/sandals.   The trail is pretty muddy and slippery with lots of insects on the ground so not the best place to wear open-toe shoes. There are some mosquitoes so please spray some bug repellant before you start the trail.  Also bring lots of water in summer. The waterfall at the end of trail and the bamboo forest are definitly worth the $30 that i paid at the national park entrance. We left  the trail around 12:30PM(Tuesday) .  According to the Haleakala National Park service, it's better to leave around or before 12PM to avoid the traffic.  We did not encounter any traffic on the road going...

Hiking the Pipiwai Trail in Maui is an unforgettable adventure that takes you through some of the island's most stunning landscapes. Located in the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park, this 4-mile round-trip trail is a must-visit for anyone traveling the Road to Hana.

The hike begins at the trailhead near the Kipahulu Visitor Center, and the $30 entrance fee per vehicle also grants access to the Seven Sacred Pools and the Haleakala summit. Parking is available, but it fills up quickly, so it's best to arrive by 10 am to avoid waiting.

The trail itself is moderately challenging, with a steep initial section that leads to the first major highlight, the Makahiku Falls. This impressive 200-foot waterfall is a beautiful sight and a great spot for a rest and photo opportunity. As you continue, you'll pass through a grove of giant Banyan trees, adding a mystical touch to the hike.

One of the most enchanting sections of the Pipiwai Trail is the bamboo forest. Walking through the towering bamboo, you'll be serenaded by the sounds of the stalks knocking together in the breeze. The trail here is well-maintained, with boardwalks in place to keep hikers out of the mud.

The grand finale of the Pipiwai Trail is the 400-foot Waimoku Falls. The sight of this towering waterfall cascading down a sheer cliff is awe-inspiring and well worth the hike. Many hikers choose to rest and enjoy the view from a safe distance, as the area near the falls can be hazardous due to falling rocks and debris.

Overall, the Pipiwai Trail offers a diverse and beautiful hiking experience, with lush rainforests, scenic waterfalls, and unique flora. It's best to wear sturdy hiking shoes due to the trail's rocky and often muddy conditions, and bringing plenty of water and snacks is advisable. For a truly immersive experience, allow 4-5 hours to fully appreciate the trail's natural beauty...

Most amazing and beautiful hike Ive ever done in my life (all the way up to Waimoku Falls). Moderate difficulty, roundtrip takes about 2-2.5 hours. Recommend to start before 1 pm (earlyier the better) to avoid crowds. About 5.5 kilometers roundtrip. Totaly worth it, can get right upclose to the waterfall which is refreshing. You will see the 2nd largest banyon tree in the U.S on this trail (largest one is located in Lahaina) & you will also walk through a bamboo forest. Theres a 30 $ parking fee/pass which is at the Kipahulu visitor center. You will want to keep that pass if you want to enter the Haleakala national park again (valid for the following 3 days). Recommend hiking shoes/boots. NOW, following the road to Hana onto Piilani Highway, i strongly recommend you to go back to Hana because beyond the road from Kīpahulu visitor center, for the next 16 miles (onto Piilani Highway 31) is not maintained, it gets a lot worst with lots of potholes and 1 lane road most of the time with no guard rails on the edge of the ocean/rocks. Some car rentals might not cover damages if that road is taken because it`s SO BAD (read fine print). After the 16 miles, the road turns beautiful with phenomenal views. Decision is up to you. Good luck.

The road to hana is not for everyone, although it is beautiful and a long/different kind of road trip, I left at around 530 AM to avoid traffic, multiple 1 lane bridges, parts of highway, twist & turns (took me 2.5 hours from kihei). Cant imagine and wouldnt do this road trip in the mid AM or afternoon.. Would take 3-4 hours one way (waste of time). If you drive the road to Hana, what I did and recommend once youre there (Lava tube - did not do but looks interesting, black & red sand beach, Pipiwai hike). Little to no cell service along...