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Historic Churches, a World-Class Park, and Lindbergh’s Gravesite

In ancient times the Kaupo and Kipahulu regions were traditional farming and fishing areas that were home to many Hawaiians. Today there is a relatively small population in these remote areas as well as in Hana on Maui’s eastern side.

Here are some of the highlights of this amazing area:

Kaupo Gap
A huge rift in Haleakala Volcano, the Kaupo Gap can be seen clearly along the road that follows Maui’s backside through the coastal towns of Kipahulu and Kaupo. The gap was formed by a volcanic explosion that broke apart a huge section of the summit of Haleakala Volcano.

The arduous Kaupo Trail leads from the top of the volcano down to the Kipahulu region. The ambitious hike begins on the east side of Haleakala crater at the volcano’s summit and descends about 20 miles through old growth koa forests, dense rainforests, and other climactic zones before crossing ranchlands to reach the coastal town of Kaupo on Maui’s east side.

Oheo Gulch and Seven Pools
Descending from the eastern rim of Haleakala Volcano to the sea, the Oheo Gulch drains into the rainforests of Kipahulu Valley. Near the lower portion of the valley is the beautiful Waimoku Falls Trail.

Located about ten miles south of Hana, Seven Pools area is a great swimming, camping, and hiking area with dozens of pools. On the lower side of the main road are some easily accessible swimming areas in the stream. Above the road is the Waimoku Falls Trail.

Located about one mile above the Ohelo Gulch ranger station on the Waimoku Falls Trail, the Falls at Makahiku drop more than 180 feet down the mountainside. If the river isn’t dangerous due to rains then you can swim in a pool at the top of the falls. Beware of flash floods in this area. If you have questions about weather conditions, call the Kīpahulu Ranger Station at 808-248-7375.

Most Amazing Outdoor Places To Visit On Valley Isle

Unspoiled rainforest, botanical parks, huge monolithic rocks – western Maui has a variety of spectacular natural attractions. Here are some of the highlights of the western Maui region:

West Maui Mountains – Summit of Puu Kukui
Some of the last untouched rainforest on Maui sits atop the summit of Puu Kukui, which means Hill of Light, and is one of the wettest spots on Earth and also the highest place on western Maui. The Puu Kukui private preserve, which is home to many rare native plants and birds, encompasses more than 8,000 acres. Only 12 people are allowed to visit this remote area each year, and the lucky few are chosen by a lottery system managed b the Kapalua Nature Society.

Iao Valley State Park / Kepaniwai Park
The towering spire of basalt known as the Iao Needle stands tall within Iao Valley State Park, a burial place of ancient chiefs and also as the site of a famous 1790 battle of the rising warrior who would become King Kamehameha the Great. Kamehameha was victorious in this battle which resulted in so many warriors killed that their bodies were said to have blocked the river, giving the battle its name, the Battle of Kepaniwai, which means The Water Dam.

Kepaniwai Park and Heritage Gardens
Also within the Iao Valley State Park is Kepaniwai Park and Heritage Gardens, featuring cultural exhibits, pavilions, and horticulture. Ethnic displays and traditional dwellings in the park are memorials to the many immigrant cultures that originally came to Hawaii to work on the sugarcane plantations. The Iao Valley Trail is a nice family-friendly trail that features many lovely pools. After you walk up some steps at the top of the Iao Valley Trail you will have a fantastic view of the 1200-foot Iao Needle, also known by its Hawaiian name, Kukaemoku.