Best Hikes in Maui for Every Fitness Level

When you're looking for an area to hike, best believe that a place like Maui has more than enough to offer—it's a hiker's paradise, to simply put it! No matter what fitness level you have, this place definitely has something in store for you. There are endless opportunities for any outdoor adventure here.

But with such plenty of choices to choose from, which ones are really the best hikes in Maui?

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking to have a casual and scenic stroll, here are some of the best trails in Maui for every fitness level:

1. Honolua Ridgeline Hike

Start: Maunalei Arboretum in Napili (West Maui)
Fee: $125 per hiker
Good for: Families, all ages, history buffs

The Honolua Ridgeline Hike in West Maui definitely takes the cake as one of the most unique hikes in the area—this two-mile trek will give you the opportunity to explore the prestigious Kapalua resort area, starting at the historic Maunalei Arboretum.

On the trail, you'll get to hike to the top of the Pu’u Kaeo lookout, swing on banyan tree vines, explore ancient coffee farms, and be immersed in the stories about the area's history. Perfect for the whole family and suitable for all ages, the hike finishes with refreshing Maui Gold pineapple at the end of the trail.

2. Pipiwai Trail

Start: Haleakalā National Park
Fee: $30 per vehicle entrance (Haleakalā National Park), valid for 3 days
Good for: Nature enthusiasts, moderate hikers

Located in Haleakala National Park, the Pipiwai Trail, a 3.8-mile round trip hike, takes you through a mesmerizing bamboo forest and past several beautiful waterfalls, including the impressive 400-foot Waimoku Falls. The trail is moderately challenging, with an 800-foot elevation gain, but don't worry—the stunning scenery makes every step worth it!

As you make your way along the trail, you’ll have the opportunity to cross wooden bridges and go through rocky terrain, bask in the peaceful bamboo forest, and see the Makahiku and Waikomu Falls. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just enjoy being in nature, the Pipiwai Trail promises an adventure you won’t forget.

3. Kapalua Coastal Trail

Start: Kapalua Bay Beach
Fee: Free
Good for: All fitness levels, scenic walkers

For a relaxing and scenic hike, try the Kapalua Coastal Trail. This 3-mile path along Maui's west coast offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the neighboring islands of Molokai and Lanai. The trail is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it accessible to hikers of all levels.

As you stroll along, take your time to enjoy the natural pools, rocky terrain, and beautiful beaches. The trail starts at Kapalua Bay Beach and ends at D.T. Fleming Beach Park, giving you plenty of spots to explore and unwind. 

4. Waihe'e Ridge Trail

Start: Gravel parking lot on Maluhia Road off Highway 340
Fee: Free
Good for: Moderate to experienced hikers, nature lovers

The Waihe'e Ridge Trail, tucked away in the West Maui Forest Reserve, is a true hidden gem and a must-do for any hiking enthusiast. This 5-mile round trip hike is moderately strenuous, featuring a 1,700-foot elevation gain that rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Waihe'e Valley and the majestic West Maui Mountains, also known as Mauna Kahalawai. Your adventure starts at a gravel parking lot off Highway 340 near the 6.9-mile marker. 

From there, you'll tackle a steep concrete ramp and trek through a lush rainforest before the trail winds up the ridge, marked every half mile for easy navigation. The ever-changing plant life and abundant bird species along the way make it a delight for nature lovers and bird watchers alike.

5. Haleakalā Crater Hike

Start: Sliding Sands Trailhead
Fee: $30 per vehicle entrance (Haleakalā National Park), valid for 3 days
Good for: Experienced hikers, adventure seekers

If you want to be brave and bold, then look no further than the Haleakalā Crater Hike—and have the opportunity to journey through a dormant volcano! Spanning 11.1 miles round trip, this hike typically takes about 7 hours to complete and includes a challenging 1,500-foot elevation gain. Starting at the Sliding Sands Trailhead near the Haleakalā Visitor Center, you’ll descend into the crater, going through a desert-like terrain with striking red sands and sparse vegetation. 

It does it get cold near the top. Bring warm clothes to endure the weather. 

Early in the hike, you might spot rare silversword plants and Nene birds, Hawaii’s state bird. The trail winds past several cinder cones and jagged lava rock fields, providing a fascinating glimpse into the area’s geological history.

Midway through your journey, the trail intersects with the Halemau’u Trail, where the landscape becomes more rugged and challenging. After passing the Ka Pa Pua’a O Pele cinder cone, you’ll reach Holua Cabin, an ideal spot for a break or an overnight stay if you have a reservation. 

For the best experience, start this hike around 3am to make it to the top by sunrise. Locals compare it to watching Gods eye open.

6. Hosmer Grove Loop Trail

Start: Hosmer Grove Campground
Fee: $30 per vehicle entrance (Haleakalā National Park), valid for 3 days | $5 camping fee
Good for: Beginners, bird watchers, short hikes

Hosmer Grove Loop Trail is a charming, short hike located in Haleakalā National Park. Spanning just 0.5 miles round trip, this trail offers a gentle 175-foot elevation gain, making it perfect for a leisurely walk. The trail takes you through the remnants of an experimental forestry project from the 1920s, where Ralph Hosmer, Hawaii's first territorial forester, introduced 86 species of trees, including pine, spruce, cedar, and eucalyptus, with less than 20 species remaining today. This area is also home to Hawaiian honeycreeper birds, which are found nowhere else on Earth!

7. King's Highway/Hoapili Trail

Start: End of Makena Road
Fee: Free
Good for: Moderate hikers, history buffs, snorkeling enthusiasts

The King's Highway, also known as the Hoapili Trail, in Southern Maui offers a moderately challenging 5.5-mile out-and-back adventure. This historic path, built by Governor Hoapili between 1824 and 1840, winds through the island's youngest lava flow from the 1790 eruption. 

As you hike this rugged and hot coastal trail, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Molokini Crater and the island of Kaho'olawe. The trail is dotted with fascinating cultural sites and pristine pools that are perfect for snorkeling and fishing. While the rocky and uneven terrain demands sturdy shoes and plenty of water, the stunning scenery and rich history make the effort well worth it.

8. ʻĪao Needle Lookout Trail and Ethnobotanical Loop

Start: Īao Valley Road
Fee: $5 fee per vehicle (Free for Hawaiian residents)
Good for: Families, history enthusiasts, casual hikers

The ʻĪao Valley State Monument, home to the ʻĪao Needle Lookout Trail and Ethnobotanical Loop, offers an easy yet scenic 0.6-mile round-trip hike with a minimal elevation gain of 20 feet. This small state park is renowned for the ʻĪao Needle, or Kūkaemoku, a striking 1,200-foot erosional feature in the upper valley. 

You may need a reservation for visiting the needle. Normally, you can pull up and they’ll tell you when to come back. It’s usually about 20-30 minute wait time. 

Despite appearing as a free-standing spire, it is actually the end of a long, narrow ridge. The area is often enveloped in clouds, living up to its name, which means "cloud supreme." The paved trail takes you over the ʻĪao Stream and through a variety of botanical species introduced to Maui by ancient Hawaiians. Historically significant, the park marks the site where King Kamehameha's forces defeated Kalanikūpule's army at the Battle of Kepaniwai in 1790.

9. Mahana Ridge Trail

Start: D.T. Fleming Beach Park
Fee: Free
Good for: Experienced hikers, nature enthusiasts

The Mahana Ridge Trail is a challenging yet rewarding hike that stretches for 9.2 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 2,000 feet. This trail ascends from the ocean into the lush forests of West Maui, ultimately leading to the Maunalei Arboretum. 

The hike offers a diverse array of native and introduced trees and plants, making it a botanist's delight. The trail kicks off near a small green schoolhouse and quickly immerses you in a dense forest. As you go through the trail, you’ll cross roads, climb ridges, and pass through areas adjacent to a new subdivision. A good halfway point for a moderate hike is a reservoir located two miles in, offering a 4-mile round trip with 750 feet of elevation gain. 

For those tackling the full trail, the path continues past the reservoir through varied terrain, including overgrown sections, dirt roads, and steep inclines. The hike culminates at the Maunalei Arboretum, where you can explore and then return the same way. 

10. Pali Trail

Start: Ukumehame Trailhead or Ma'alaea Trailhead
Fee: Free
Good for: Experienced hikers, history buffs, those seeking a challenge

The Lahaina Pali Trail offers a kind-of-difficult 5.5-mile hike that provides breathtaking views and historical insights. Located in central Maui, this trail allows you to traverse the lower portion of the West Maui Mountains, with a significant elevation gain of 1,500 feet. The hike is entirely shadeless and features some uneven footing, so be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes. Along the way, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the Maui coastline, the Haleakalā Crater, and even the Molokini Crater if visibility is good.

Starting at either the Maalaea or Ukumehame trailheads, this hike can be tackled in sections or as a full point-to-point journey. The Maalaea trailhead is accessible via a dirt road off Honoapiilani Highway, while the Ukumehame trailhead offers a closer view of the ocean and western parts of the island. It's one of the best hikes in Maui for experienced ones—as it's suited for those looking for a combination of physical challenge and stunning scenery.

Conclusion

Maui's diverse hiking trails provide something for everyone, from easy coastal walks to challenging mountain treks. Whether you're exploring the bamboo forests of the Pipiwai Trail, taking in the panoramic views from the Waihe'e Ridge Trail, or going on a historic journey along the King's Highway, you're sure to find an adventure that suits your fitness level and interests. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your essentials, and get ready to discover the best hikes Maui has to offer!

Book Your Adventure with Helewai Eco Tours 

Ready to explore Maui's incredible landscapes and learn about its rich history and ecology? Book a tour with Helewai Eco Tours for a one-of-a-kind experience. Our Honolua Ridge Hike offers stunning panoramic views, a chance to swing from banyan tree vines, and stories about ancient coffee farms. Don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime! 

Visit Helewai Eco Tours to book a hike today and experience Maui like never before!