Hiking Haleakala National Park on the island of Maui offers some of the most remarkable views on the island. The two-mile trail through the rain forest leads through the ‘Ohe'o Gulch with its numerous pools, feeding each other as cool rains find their way to sea, then continues until you reach the jaw-dropping 400-foot Waimoku Falls. What ever you do, don't forget your camera as you embark on one of the top 5 things to do on Maui.
(Note: Many of these photos were taken with a good ol' film camera. Yes, I still have one.)
5 Breathtaking Reasons to Hike Haleakala National Park
The park entrance to Haleakala National Park is located 10 miles past Hana, the last undeveloped tropical paradise on Maui. With picturesque views of spectacular waterfalls and rugged untouched beaches, the natural scenic beauty of Hana will leave you breathless.
Makahiku Overlook
The first stop on our hike in Haleakala National Park was the Makahiku Overlook. The nearly 184ft Makahiku Falls is one of the more impressive waterfalls along the Pipiwai Trail in Ohe'o Gulch (aka the Seven Sacred Pools).
Banyan Tree
As you wander up the trail through the breathtaking rainforest, you will soon find yourself at the base of one of the oldest and largest, most majestic Banyan trees on the island of Maui. Like many fig trees, Banyan trees boast large, leathery, glossy green leaves which are elliptical in shape.
Pools at Oheo Gulch
The Pools at Oheo Gulch in Haleakala National Park is one of the most popular attractions in Hana. Formed by the Pipiwai Stream, which creates a series of pools and waterfalls on it’s way to the ocean, the Pools at Oheo Gulch are a great spot for swimming on a warm tropical day.
Bamboo Forest
The Bamboo Forest in Haleakala National Park towers above the base standing at over 30′ tall and is so dense daylight struggles to penetrate it. And did you know, the bamboo forest is actually one giant bamboo
Waimoku Falls
As you exit the bamboo forest, it's just a short hike until you reach Waimoku Falls. Words can't describe the beauty of Waimoku Falls. Phenomenal. Stupendous. Majestic. Breathtaking. Wonderous. I could go on and on. Really, I could.
When you reach the falls you will be in awe at its marvel. If you want to make the most of your hike to Waimoku Falls, I recommend you savor in its beauty and strength and enjoy a tropical island snack of fresh fruit on the rocks at the bottom of the falls. The sounds, the sights, the mist from the falls, you won't regret relishing in the moment.
You can hike to the top of the falls, but unfortunately for us heavy rain started to fall forcing us to run out of the area due to the high risk of flash floods in the area. Be sure you bring the proper equipment for the hike in case you are hit with a flash flood as well. Ponchos and frog shoes are preferred.
