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Pipiwai Trail

RECOMMENDED ROUTE
Intermediate
 4.6 (55) RECOMMENDED ROUTE
  1. Areas
  2. HI
  3. …Maui
  4. …Haleakala National Park
  5. Kipahulu District
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“This delightful trail climbs through lush tropical forest and bamboo groves to streaming waterfalls. ”

Megan W
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Map Key

3.4

Miles

5.5

KM

Out and Back

842' 257 m

High

115' 35 m

Low

727' 222 m

Up

726' 221 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

27%

Max Grade (15°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views · Waterfall

Family Friendly The large banyan tree partway through the trail is a great spot to let kids romp, and the mostly moderate grade is a good intro to hiking for older kids.

The water here can be contaminated with e.coli and other dangerous bacterial organisms - keep your head and open sores out of the water. Don't swim if the water is muddy- this is an indication of rain higher up and imminent flash flooding.

Overview

This extremely scenic trail parallels the freshwater Palikea Stream as it cascades through Ohe'o Gulch. With many points of interest scattered along its length, the Pipiwai Trail deserves its good reputation.

Description

From the visitor center parking lot, follow the well signed paths past the thatched house and onto the Pipiwai Trail. This forested route is mostly shady as it ascends steadily up the valley. Watch your footing on the rooty slippery spots. Soon you arrive at the Falls at Makahiku followed shortly thereafter by an enormous banyon tree that is sure to rival any you've ever seen. This is a good place for a break and fun for the kids to scamper about.

Cross several bridges and arrive at a thick, towering bamboo grove penetrated by a well maintained boardwalk. This serenely eerie and magical spot is the highlight for many visitors. The trail ends in a deep valley with the impressive 400-foot Waimoku Falls at the head. Depending on the amount of recent rainfalls, the cascade will either be a rushing torrent or a wispy trickle. Retrace your steps back downhill to the visitor center.

Although the mileage is low, the trail feels more strenuous because of the hot, humid weather. Be prepared for intense sun or rain. As of this writing, there is no food available for purchase in the park so bring your own refreshment.

Flora & Fauna

Huge banyon tree

Contacts

Land Manager: National Park Service - Haleakalā

Shared By:

Megan W
Full Details

Trail Ratings

  4.6 from 55 votes

#1

in Kipahulu District

#155

Overall
  4.6 from 55 votes
5 Star
71%
4 Star
24%
3 Star
4%
2 Star
2%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#1

in Kipahulu District

#2

in Hawaii

#155

Overall
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8,647 Since Apr 28, 2016
Intermediate
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Photos

Makahiku Falls
Sep 22, 2015 near Hāna, HI
Rocks and bamboos on the Pipiwai Trail
Sep 22, 2015 near Hāna, HI
Huge Banyan tree on the Pipiwai Trail!
Sep 22, 2015 near Hāna, HI
Haleakala National Park
Apr 1, 2020 near Hāna, HI
Banyan Tree Haleakala National Park, Maui, Hawaii
Apr 1, 2020 near Hāna, HI
In amongst the eucalyptuses
Sep 22, 2015 near Hāna, HI

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Weather

Current Trail Conditions

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All Clear 64 days ago See History
Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

May 28, 2022
Vianni Garcia
Jan 23, 2022
Kayla Lyman
Jan 21, 2022
Kayla Lyman
Hiked to bamboo forest and back at park closing. 2.4mi — 1h 20m
Jan 14, 2022
Cristina Monaco
3.3mi — 0h 53m
Oct 31, 2021
Justin Medders
Sep 18, 2021
Shelly Dee
Did this with the Pools of Oh'eo 4.2mi — 1h 40m
Apr 7, 2021
ZM ZM
Mar 14, 2021
Gerald Murphy

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