9 Best Hikes in Maui with Stunning Views
Maui’s hiking scene shows off the island’s best angles. The island’s mix of landscapes means you could chase waterfalls or go for a coastline stroll where cliffs drop straight into the blue.
Here are 9 of the best hikes in Maui you need to check out.
View this post on Instagram
1. Haleakala Crater Sunrise Hike
Set your alarm for an ungodly hour—3 AM, anyone?—and head up to 10,023 feet above sea level.
The payoff is watching the sun crack the horizon from the roof of Maui. Haleakala National Park lays out 30+ miles of trails, whether you want a quick stroll or a full-on trek.
Best For: Chasing that sunrise magic and hiking through volcanic landscapes you won’t find anywhere else.
2. Iao Valley State Park Trail
Rainforest vibes without the epic trek—this short, scenic trail leads you straight to the legendary Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot green spire that’s impossible to miss.
Paved walkways and mellow terrain make it a breeze for all ages. Waterfalls and lush greenery set the scene, and you’re only minutes from Wailuku. History buffs, you’re walking where Hawaiian chiefs once ruled.
Best For: Easy rainforest exploring, jaw-dropping views, and a dose of Hawaiian history for everyone in the group.
View this post on Instagram
3. Twin Falls Trail
Twin Falls is the easy-access waterfall fix right off the Road to Hana. It’s a 1.8-mile out-and-back through rainforest, ending at two classic Maui waterfalls.
Trails are well-marked, and you’ll pass a few swimming holes that are just begging for a dip. Perfect for families or anyone who wants a taste of jungle without a marathon hike.
Wailele Farm keeps the place looking sharp, and there’s a $10 parking fee. Don’t skip the farm stand—fresh fruit tastes better after a hike.
Best For: Quick waterfall access and swimming holes that make you want to stay all afternoon.
4. Sliding Sands Trail
The Sliding Sands Trail drops you right into Haleakalā’s crater from the summit—10,023 feet up.
This one’s tough. Steep, high-altitude, and not for the faint of heart. The crater floor is scattered with silversword plants and the colors shift as the sun moves. It’s weird, wild, and absolutely worth the effort if you’re up for it.
Best For: Adventurers wanting a surreal hike through volcanic terrain and rare plant life.
View this post on Instagram
5. Waimoku Falls via Pipiwai Trail
Ever hiked through a bamboo forest? The Pipiwai Trail takes you there—and then ends at Maui’s tallest accessible waterfall. It’s a 3.6-mile round trip through Haleakala National Park’s greenest corners.
Along the way, you’ll pass a giant banyan tree and wander through bamboo that creaks in the wind. The grand finale is Waimoku Falls, a 400-foot drop down a sheer cliff.
Moderate difficulty, 853 feet of elevation gain, and you’ll want to budget about 2-2.5 hours. Bring bug spray and your camera.
Best For: Bamboo forests and a waterfall finish that’ll have you grinning the whole hike back.
6. Waihee Ridge Trail
The Waihee Ridge Trail is all about the views—West Maui Mountains on one side, lush valleys on the other. It’s a workout, but the scenery keeps you going.
4.2 miles round-trip, over 1,500 feet up, and you’ll probably end up in the clouds. The contrast between the green valleys and the coastline is just unreal.
Best For: Hikers who crave dramatic mountain vistas and a taste of Maui’s wilder side.
View this post on Instagram
7. Lahaina Pali Trail
Lahaina Pali Trail follows an old road that’s been around for over two centuries. You’ll cross the southern end of West Maui, with views stretching from the central valley to the ocean.
It’s rugged—5 miles and 1,600 feet up over 2.5 miles, then back down, so it’s a real leg-burner.
The trail is rocky and steep, connecting Maalaea to Ukumehame. On a clear day, you’ll spot neighboring islands in the distance.
Best For: Those who want a tough climb and panoramic valley-to-ocean views.
8. Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area Trails
Redwoods in Hawaii? Yep, you read that right. Up at this mountain hideaway, you’ll find giant trees and cool air—totally different from the beach scene.
There’s a whole network of trails: Redwood, Plum, Haleakala Ridge, and Polipoli.
Most hikers can finish the Redwood, Plum, Haleakala Ridge, and Polipoli Trails Loop loop in under three hours. It’s quiet, cool (6,500 feet up), and you’ll probably have the place mostly to yourself since 4WD is required.
Best For: Mountain hiking through towering redwoods—no humidity, no crowds, just fresh air.
View this post on Instagram
9. Kapalua Coastal Trail
An easy, breezy walk along the Kapalua Coastal Trail means you get knockout ocean views without even breaking a sweat.
Think dramatic cliffs, a peek at some luxury resorts, and the occasional hidden beach popping up when you least expect it.
The 2.5-mile stretch winds through old lava fields and hugs the coastline in a way that just begs for a few too many photos.
Fleming Beach and Oneloa Beach are both right on the route, so you can stop and snack whenever you feel like it.
Best For: Families who want easy-going ocean views and quick beach access on Maui’s west side.
