Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls

Hike through a jungle gorge with towering bamboo forest and impressive waterfalls.

Hiking Moderate

Distance: 5 km
Ascent: 196 m
Descent: 196 m
Duration: 1-2 hrs

Low Point: 45 m
High Point: 216 m
Gradient: 6˚

The Pipiwai Trail on Maui begins from the visitor center parking, crosses the road, then dives into a primeval forest on the edge of a river gorge. At just half a mile from the start, you’ll reach the Makahiku Overlook. You’ll see a 185-foot-waterfall pouring through a gap in lava-rock cliffs, with vines hanging all around. The trail continues from there, closer to the stream and among even thicker vegetation. You’ll see one particularly huge banyan tree with its spider-like branches, and you’ll stroll a boardwalk between towering walls of living bamboo.

Description

Where a footbridge crosses the ravine, you’ll see a duo of smaller waterfalls with a pool suspended in between. The culmination of the hike is Waimoku Falls, which is 400 feet of water streaming down vertical rock, amid a huge natural amphitheater. After recent rain it is especially impressive, though it can be dry during summer drought.

This entire trail is wide and easy to follow, but rather steep and rough in places. Rain can make the rocks and mud very slippery, and make the hike far more difficult. There is also the risk of flash floods with very heavy rain, so the park might sometimes advise against hiking or close the trail altogether. No matter the time of year, come prepared for mud, mosquitoes, and the possibility of rain, but expect the effort to be well worth the reward of this popular trail.

Sources: https://www.nps.gov/hale/planyourvisit/hiking.htm http://mauiguidebook.com/adventures/pipiwai-trail-waimoku-falls/