🥾 The Top Hiking Spots in Maui: Waterfalls, Craters & Coastlines
Maui isn’t just about beaches — it’s a hiker’s paradise filled with lush rainforests, volcanic craters, bamboo forests, and coastal cliffs. Whether you’re looking for an easy family trail or a jaw-dropping summit hike, here are our favorite hiking spots in Maui, complete with tips, distances, and what real hikers are saying.
🌿 1. Pipiwai Trail (Haleakalā National Park – Kīpahulu)
Distance: 4 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Bamboo forest, Waimoku Falls, banyan trees
📍 Located near the end of the Road to Hana, this is a can’t-miss hike that winds through a towering bamboo forest and ends at the stunning 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
💬 “It felt like I stepped into a Jurassic Park movie — the bamboo forest was unreal!” – Jenna, New York
🏔️ 2. Sliding Sands Trail (Haleakalā Crater)
Distance: Varies (up to 11 miles roundtrip)
Difficulty: Hard
Highlights: Mars-like volcanic landscape, summit views, crater floor
Start from 10,000 feet above sea level and descend into a surreal, colorful crater. This trail offers otherworldly views and cool alpine air — bring layers and plenty of water!
💬 “Hiking inside a volcano was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s hard but worth every step.” – Marcus, California
🌊 3. Waihe’e Ridge Trail (West Maui Mountains)
Distance: 4.2 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Valley and ocean views, jungle canopies
This ridge trail climbs through lush forest to panoramic lookouts over central Maui and the coastline. Go early to avoid clouds.
💬 “One of the best hikes on the island — we saw both sides of Maui at once!” – Leah, Oregon
🌺 4. Twin Falls Trail (Haʻikū – Road to Hana)
Distance: 1.8 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Multiple waterfalls, swimming holes, fruit stands
A quick and refreshing hike for families, this trail near mile marker 2 of the Hana Highway is perfect if you want waterfalls without the commitment.
💬 “We brought the kids and ended up swimming under the falls. So fun!” – Erica, Colorado
🌴 5. ʻIao Valley State Monument (Central Maui – Wailuku)
Distance: 0.6 miles paved trail
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Historic battlefield, the ʻIao Needle, lush gardens
A short walk with a big payoff, the ʻIao Valley offers history, culture, and jungle beauty. Great for all ages.
💬 “This was a great stop with incredible views. Super easy and very peaceful.” – Daniel, Texas
🔥 Bonus Tip: Book a Guided Tour Along the Road to Hana
Some of Maui’s best hikes are tucked away along the famous Road to Hana — and the drive is half the adventure. If you want to relax and explore safely, join us at Aloha PixaBus on a guided tour of Maui’s hidden gems.
👉 Book your Road to Hana adventure and discover secret waterfalls, epic trails, and unforgettable views — without the stress of driving.
