Known as the “Valley Isle,” Maui hosts a variety of landscapes from the beautiful, lush, tropical waterfalls of Hana to the stunning open views of the grasslands from Kula and the dramatic moonscape of the Haleakala Crater. Many hiking enthusiasts have tagged the island as the best of all them for the sport. Here are a few of the best hikes on Maui.
Featured Photo: Tor Johnson/HTA
Central/East Maui
Kahlui
Paia
Hana
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: 4 miles round trip
You will start the hike passing through a dense rainforest and eventually climb along a ridge with great views of the West Maui mountains. This hike has beautiful scenery, several waterfalls and a picnic area at the summit for those who plan ahead. The trek back down can be slippery when wet, so be prepared with sturdy shoes.
LOCAL TIP: This is a rewarding but steep ridge trail with panoramic views of lush valleys, waterfalls, and the ocean.
Level: Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly
Mileage: 1 mile round trip
This short, picturesque trail leads to a series of cascading waterfalls and swimmable pools surrounded by lush rainforest. Located in Haleakalā National Park, the hike offers stunning ocean views and a chance to experience Maui’s natural beauty up close. Water levels vary, and swimming is sometimes restricted, so check conditions before visiting.
LOCAL TIP: A beautiful, short trail leading to cascading pools and waterfalls near the ocean. Swimming is sometimes restricted due to conditions.
Level: Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly
Mileage: 0.6 miles round trip
Nestled in the heart of lush greenery, this short but scenic hike takes you along a paved path to the iconic ʻIao Needle, a striking 1,200-foot rock pinnacle. The trail winds through tropical flora, with interpretive signs highlighting the valley’s rich history. Frequent rain showers keep the area vibrant, so expect misty views and occasional slippery spots.
LOCAL TIP: A paved path with stunning views of the famous ʻIao Needle and lush valley landscapes. Stroller-friendly with a few steps at the end.
Level: Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly
Mileage: 0.5 miles for the easy loop
This short yet rewarding hike off the Hana Highway meanders through a lush rainforest filled with towering eucalyptus and native ferns. A well-maintained loop trail offers shaded pathways and occasional glimpses of the coastline. Though mostly easy, some sections can be muddy after rain, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
LOCAL TIP: A short and shaded loop through a tropical forest, great for young kids and families. The full trail is more challenging.
Level: Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly
Mileage: Varies, 1 mile around the garden
This easy, self-guided walk takes you through a stunning coastal botanical garden filled with rare Hawaiian plants and towering coconut palms. The highlight is Piʻilanihale Heiau, the largest ancient temple in Hawaii, built from massive lava rock terraces. The serene setting and ocean views make this a peaceful and culturally rich experience.
LOCAL TIP: A stroller-friendly botanical garden with views of the Pacific and the largest ancient Hawaiian temple (heiau) in Hawaii.
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: Varies (8+ miles for a full route, but 2-3 miles is a good workout)
Starting at the summit of Haleakalā, this otherworldly trail descends into the volcanic crater, revealing a landscape of cinder cones, shifting sands, and vibrant lava rock formations. The high elevation and lack of shade make for a challenging trek, but the panoramic views and surreal beauty are unmatched. Hikers should prepare for cooler temperatures at the top and a strenuous return climb.
LOCAL TIP: A surreal Mars-like landscape at the summit of Haleakalā, with stunning volcanic views and steep descents.
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: 5.5 miles round trip
Winding through a cool, shaded forest of eucalyptus and native ʻōhiʻa trees, this scenic loop offers a peaceful escape with gentle climbs and well-groomed trails. Popular with hikers and mountain bikers, the path features wooden bridges, switchbacks, and the occasional wild boar sighting. Misty mornings add to the enchanting atmosphere, making it a local favorite for a refreshing trek.
LOCAL TIP: A peaceful forest hike with cool temperatures, towering eucalyptus trees, and scenic views.
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: 4 miles round trip
Some say this hike is truly the essence of Maui. Plan to stay overnight in Hana and take off for the trailhead first thing in the morning. It’s a well-maintained trail surrounded by a lush, tropical landscape. Climb the sometimes steep terrain and look for the spectacular Makahiku and Waimoku Falls along the way.
LOCAL TIP: A bucket-list hike featuring a massive banyan tree, bamboo forest, and the breathtaking 400-ft Waimoku Falls.
Level: Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly
Mileage: 1.5 miles round trip
This is a must stop on the road to Hana and a good place to stretch your legs. Get a snack from the stand in the parking lot, known for their selection of fruits, smoothies and fresh-baked banana bread. It’s a memorable experience for the whole family to enjoy and only a one-mile round-trip trek. You will see waterfalls and beautiful scenery.
LOCAL TIP: A scenic waterfall hike with multiple falls, swimming holes, and lush rainforest.
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: 11.2 miles
This all-day trek starts at the Haleakala Visitor Center parking lot and traverses the moonscape-like valley floor to Halemauu. It’s best to arrange transportation back to the visitor center as there is no shuttle from the trails end back to the trail head. The scenery is spectacular and hiking Haleakala is an adventure you will never forget.
LOCAL TIP: Start early to catch the sunrise at the summit—it’s unforgettable! Be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and a light jacket, as temperatures can drop.
South Maui
Wailea
Kihei
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: 1 mile round trip
From the west side of the parking lot, you will take a sandy trail that leads to the beach. The hike features tide pools, lava flows and a rough coastline. Makena has been known for years as the “nude beach” where public nudity is against the law, but rarely enforced.
LOCAL TIP: A steep, sandy climb up a cinder cone with amazing views of Makena Beach and Molokini Crater.
Level: Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly
Mileage: 3 miles round trip
This easy, paved coastal trail winds along Wailea’s luxury resorts, offering breathtaking ocean views and access to golden-sand beaches. Palm trees line the path, and if you’re lucky, you might spot sea turtles or whales offshore. Ideal for a sunrise stroll or sunset walk, this scenic route is perfect for a leisurely outing.
LOCAL TIP: A fully paved, stroller-friendly path with stunning ocean views, passing by luxury resorts and beaches.
Level: Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly
Mileage: Varies (1 mile for the easy part)
This rugged coastal trail winds through jagged lava fields, offering dramatic ocean views and a chance to spot dolphins in the bay. The path, part of the historic King’s Highway, is uneven and exposed to the sun, so sturdy shoes and water are essential. The striking contrast between black lava rock and turquoise water makes this a uniquely scenic hike.
LOCAL TIP: A lava rock coastal trail with stunning ocean views. The first part is fairly smooth, but beyond that, it gets rocky.
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: 5.5 miles round trip
This historic trail follows the ancient King’s Highway along Maui’s southern coastline, passing through lava fields and offering sweeping ocean vistas. The path is mostly flat but rocky, with sections that can be slippery. Along the way, you’ll encounter ancient Hawaiian ruins and tide pools, making it a great spot for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
LOCAL TIP: A rugged lava field hike with ocean views, tide pools, and historic Hawaiian ruins. Bring lots of water—this trail is hot!
Level: Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly
Mileage: 2.2 miles round trip
LOCAL TIP: A flat, stroller-friendly boardwalk through a coastal wetland, great for birdwatching and spotting Hawaiian wildlife.
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: 2.5 miles round trip (to the first viewpoint)
This short but striking hike offers breathtaking panoramic views of Haleakalā’s summit and crater. The trail descends through alpine landscapes, showcasing vibrant flora and dramatic rock formations. The partial route to the lookout provides a stunning vantage point of the volcanic landscape below, making it a perfect spot for photos or a quick nature escape.
LOCAL TIP: If you’re up for a drive to higher elevations, this hike offers stunning crater views with a cooler climate.
Level: Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly
Mileage: Varies (1-2 miles depending on route)
LOCAL TIP: Short scenic hikes around Big Beach and Little Beach, offering stunning views, tide pools, and a chance to spot sea turtles.
Wailea 670 Preserve (Kihei’s Secret Forest Trail)
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: 3 miles round trip
This hidden gem offers a serene escape through a lush forest of native trees and vibrant foliage. The trail, often referred to as Kihei’s Secret Forest, takes you through a peaceful oasis, away from the crowds. While the path can be a bit muddy at times, the tranquil surroundings, birdwatching opportunities, and shaded areas make this a perfect spot for a quiet hike.
LOCAL TIP: A hidden gem with native Hawaiian dryland forest, unique plants and beautiful views of the coastline.
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: 3 miles round trip
This scenic stretch of the Hoapili Trail leads you through rugged lava fields with stunning ocean views, eventually reaching the secluded Kanaio Beach. The trail is rocky and exposed, but the reward is a peaceful, less-visited beach with crystal-clear waters. Perfect for those seeking solitude and a chance to explore Maui’s natural beauty away from the crowds.
LOCAL TIP: A more manageable section of the Hoapili Trail, leading to a remote and breathtaking lava rock beach.
West Maui
Kapalua
Kaanapali
Lahaina
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: 5-10 miles round trip (depending on start point)
This hike follows a historic road that traverses high over the southern end of West Maui. It’s a difficult hike and strenuous climb to the 1600 foot summit, but the views are spectacular. Look for the wind turbines before you make your way back to the trailhead.
LOCAL TIP: A steep and rocky trail with incredible panoramic views of Maui’s coastline. Best for early mornings due to heat.
Level: Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly
Mileage: 2.5 miles round trip
This easy, scenic trail hugs the coastline of Kapalua, offering stunning ocean views, rocky coves, and vibrant tropical landscapes. The path is mostly flat, making it perfect for a leisurely walk or a relaxed jog. Along the way, you’ll encounter quiet beaches, tide pools, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, including sea turtles and native birds.
LOCAL TIP: A beautiful, mostly paved coastal walk with ocean views, tide pools, and beaches. Great for families and strollers.
Level: Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly
Mileage: Varies, but an easy first mile
This scenic partial route of the Mahana Ridge Trail offers sweeping views of Maui’s western coastline and lush valleys. Starting from Kapalua Village, the trail winds through eucalyptus forests and grassy meadows, with occasional glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. While the path can be steep in sections, the panoramic vistas and peaceful surroundings make it well worth the effort.
LOCAL TIP: The first part of the trail is relatively flat and stroller-friendly, offering nice forest and mountain views.
Level: Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly
Mileage: 0.6 miles round trip
This short, easy trail leads you through a lush forest to the stunning Honolua Bay, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. The path is shaded by native trees and offers occasional glimpses of the bay before reaching the coastline. Perfect for those looking to explore Maui’s underwater beauty, the bay is ideal for snorkeling, with coral reefs and tropical fish just offshore.
LOCAL TIP: A short, shaded jungle walk leading to Honolua Bay, perfect for kids. The path isn’t paved but is manageable for sturdy strollers.
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: 10 miles round trip
The full Mahana Ridge Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to expansive meadows. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, valleys, and surrounding mountains. The trail is steep in parts, so be prepared for a strenuous hike, but the sweeping vistas and tranquil atmosphere make it a memorable experience for avid adventurers.
LOCAL TIP: A tough uphill climb through rainforest and ridges, ending near the Maunalei Arboretum with sweeping ocean and valley views.
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: 4 miles round trip
This moderately strenuous trail takes you through a tropical rainforest, leading up to a ridge with stunning views of the Waihee Valley and the rugged West Maui Mountains. The path winds through lush vegetation, including native trees and ferns, with misty mornings adding a mystical feel to the hike. At the top, the lookout offers a panoramic view of the valley below, the coastline, and on clear days, Moloka‘i Island across the channel.
LOCAL TIP: Stunning ridge-line views, waterfalls, and lush green valleys make this a must-do for nature lovers.
Level: For Nature Lovers and Athletes & Experienced Hikers
Mileage: 2 miles round trip
LOCAL TIP: A scenic jungle hike crossing a stream multiple times, leading to waterfalls and lush vegetation.
Level: Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly
Mileage: 0.6 miles round trip
This unique and rugged trail takes you through a striking landscape of sharp, jagged lava formations known as Dragon’s Teeth, set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. The Acid War Zone Trail winds through an old lava field, showcasing the stark contrast between the dark, rocky terrain and the bright blue waters. While the trail is relatively short, the dramatic scenery and raw volcanic beauty make it a memorable experience.
LOCAL TIP: A short but dramatic walk along volcanic rock formations resembling dragon’s teeth, with sweeping ocean views.
