If you’re looking for one of the best hikes in Hawaii look no further than the Pipiwai Trail. It is about four miles long (two out and two back) and located within Haleakala National Park in Kipahulu (southeast Maui). The trail is easy to access and is extremely well-maintained for a route that undoubtedly sees loads of foot traffic every day. Along with its main attractions – the gigantic banyan tree, the view of Makahiku Falls, the majestic bamboo forest, and Waimoku Falls – Pipiwai Trail stands out as one of the more dramatic stream and waterfall hikes along East Maui.
The sudden change in terrain throughout the journey is pretty outstanding. One moment you are walking over large roots that have outgrown its place in the ground and then all of a sudden you are surrounded by bamboo so tall, they seem to brush the sky. And as if the diverse scenery wasn’t enough, the hike culminates at the base of a pretty spectacular waterfall.
Due to the trail’s National Park status, solitude isn’t something you’ll find on this hike. But people move at their own pace and you’ll never feel it to be too crowded to enjoy. Because once you hit the picturesque bamboo forest, I promise you that you’ll barely notice anything else.
