Maui’s Most Rewarding Walk

Most people think the Road to Hana ends in Hana town, but some of the drive’s greatest magic waits just beyond it. In the Kipahulu district of Haleakala National Park, the Pipiwai Trail climbs through a soaring bamboo forest to a towering waterfall. For many travelers, it is the single most memorable stop on the entire journey. Here is what to know before you go.

Where Is the Pipiwai Trail

The Pipiwai Trail sits about ten miles past Hana town, inside the Kipahulu section of Haleakala National Park. Because it is part of the national park, there is an entrance fee, and the same area is home to the beautiful Pools of Oheo. The extra distance keeps some visitors away, which means the reward at the end feels all the more special.

What You Will See on the Trail

The trail runs roughly four miles round trip and is considered moderate, with a steady climb and plenty to see along the way.

  • An overlook of Makahiku Falls early on the climb.
  • A massive, sprawling banyan tree that feels almost otherworldly.
  • The famous bamboo forest, where a boardwalk winds through dense green stalks that click and sway in the breeze.
  • The grand finale, Waimoku Falls, a slender waterfall that drops hundreds of feet down a sheer cliff.

Walking through the bamboo alone is worth the trip, and the waterfall at the end makes it unforgettable.

What to Expect and Bring

Plan for roughly two to three hours on the trail. It can be muddy, slippery, and wet, with a stream area along the route, so come prepared. Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip, bring water and bug spray, and pack a rain layer since showers are common. Most important, respect the water: if a stream is running high or rain is heavy, do not cross, as flash floods are a real danger in these valleys.

Fitting It Into Your Road to Hana Day

Because the trailhead is so far along the drive, the Pipiwai Trail takes planning. You will want a couple of hours for the hike on top of a long day of driving, so an early sunrise start is the key to making it work. Some visitors choose to save it for a second day or skip it if time is tight. A guided tour can help you decide whether to include Kipahulu and handle the timing, and it is always wise to check current park hours and conditions.

Respect the Land

Kipahulu is a place of deep natural and cultural significance. Stay on the trail and the boardwalk, take only photos, pack out everything you bring, and move through quietly and considerately. Traveling with respect helps keep this remarkable corner of Maui beautiful for everyone who follows.

A Walk You Will Never Forget

The Pipiwai Trail rewards every muddy step with an enchanted bamboo forest and a waterfall that seems to touch the sky. It asks for an early start and a little effort, but it gives back one of the most beautiful experiences on all of Maui. Add it to your Road to Hana plans, tread lightly, and get ready for a hike you will be talking about long after you leave the island.