Pipiwai Trail to Makahiku Falls Overlook
The Pipiwai Trail to Makahiku Falls at Haleakala National Park in Maui, Hawaii, is a moderate 0.9 mile out-and-back hike up to the overlook for Makahiku Falls - a 200 foot waterfall that feeds into the 'Ohe'o Gulch stream.The trail lies within the Kipahulu District and can only be accessible by the Hana Highway. It heads uphill throughout the entire hike and can often be wet and covered in leaves, so take your time and watch your step. Prepare for hot, humid, wet weather.
The Pipiwai Trail is about 2 miles one-way to the 400 foot Waimoku Falls, passing through a bamboo and guava forest. The entire hike up the Pipiwai Trail is worth the effort, but this shorter hike up to Makahiku Falls is a great alternative if you don't have the time or energy to reach Waimoku Falls.
Recommendations: Plan to bring at least 1-liter of water per person on this hike. You can fill up water bottles at the trailhead next to the restrooms. Plan to bring bug spray since the mosquitoes can be annoying. Also bring proper footwear since the uphill climb is not easy when the ground is wet.
Facilities: There are restrooms and a potable water station at the trailhead by the main parking lot.
Flooding & Dangers: This trail lies within an area of Maui that generally gets a decent amount of rainfall. Heavy rains upstream can trigger flash floods that sweep down this creek, so watch the weather and do not hike this trail if there are heavy rains in the weather forecast. Do not attempt to cross the creek if it's running high and the flow is strong to reduce risk of injury, drowning, or both.
Fees: There's a $25 entry fee for Haleakala National Park. The ticket you receive is good for 7-days (make sure to check the Haleakala National Park's site), but I highly encourage you to purchase the $50 annual pass if you plan to visit more national parks within the next 365 days.
Respecting the Land
Hawaiian land is considered sacred to native Hawaiians and many locals, so please stay on-trail, take nothing but photos, and leave nothing but footprints. Respect the locals - don't stay for long and have a backup hike planned in case the parking lot is full.
