6 Easy Hikes On Maui

Maui is a hiker’s paradise, with stunning scenery, incredible parks, and more trails than you can count on two hands.

But some of the most popular hikes on Maui are incredibly challenging —from the leg-burning incline at Waihee Ridge Trail to the high-altitude treks at Haleakala National Park.

And let’s be honest, demanding hikes aren’t everyone’s cup of tea.

Fortunately, there are plenty of easy hikes on Maui, too.

Whether you’re traveling with kids or grandparents — or enjoy a pleasant stroll more than a taxing trek — here are some of our favorite easy hikes on Maui!

 

Our Favorite Easy Maui Hikes

1. Twin Falls
2. ʻOhai Loop Trail (West Maui)
3. Makawao Forest
4. Iao Valley State Monument
5. Waikamoi Ridge Trail
6. Oheo Gulch

 

Twin Falls

Twin Falls is an easy 1.8-mile out-and-back hike at the beginning of the Road to Hana. The route follows a gravel road in the lush Hoʻolawa Valley, featuring waterfalls, swimming holes, and tropical plants at every turn.

For the most part, this is an easy hike. Inclines are minimal, and families with young children should have no trouble. However, getting to the last (and tallest) waterfall requires crossing a stream, and sure footing is necessary.

Twin Falls is located on a private farm, but the owners graciously allow visitors to explore and enjoy. The property is open from 7 am to 6 pm daily. Parking is $10 per car, and slots fill up quickly. Be sure to support the Twin Falls Farm Stand by buying a smoothie or fresh coconut!

 

Ohai Loop Trail

The Ohai Loop Trail is located near Kahakuloa, just off Kahekili Highway between Kapalua and Wailuku.

This mellow 1.2-mile loop trail is perfect for beginners. It has an easy-to-follow path and educational plaques along the way.

The route travels through rolling fields and shrubland, so there isn’t much shade. However, consistent breezes usually keep the temperatures down. Be sure to wear lots of sun protection!

Parts of the Ohai Trail hug the steep coastline, offering gorgeous views of Maui’s rugged northwest coast and the Kahakuloa headland. There can be steep drop-offs just off the trail, so if you’re hiking with children, keep a close eye on them.

The Ohai Trail is a public trail with parking for about ten cars. It’s usually very quiet, but smash-and-grab break-ins can be an issue here. Don’t leave anything of value in your car while hiking here.

 

Makawao Forest (Kahakapao Loop)

Makawao Forest is a hidden gem located just a few minutes up the road from Makawao Town.

This trail is a six-mile loop – but you can turn around whenever you like. It’s a short walk to get to the loop, and many families with young children just hike to where the loop begins.

You’ll travel through a lush forest of eucalyptus and pine trees, which keeps the trail nice and cool. The trail is very well-maintained, although it can be a little muddy at times.

The only real challenge at Makawao Forest is the incline. If you hike the entire loop, you’ll gain (and lose) about 1,000 feet. Otherwise, it’s smooth sailing.

Makawao Forest is popular for mountain biking, and you might have to share portions of the trail with mountain bikers.

 

Iao Valley State Monument

Iao Valley State Monument is less of a hike and more of a pleasant walking trail. Its official title is the Iao Valley Needle Lookout Trail and Ethnobotanical Loop.

All-in-all, this paved route totals about 0.6 miles. It’s a very easy walk, although there is some elevation gain.

You’ll need to climb a few dozen stairs to get to the top of the lookout, but the view is worth it. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Iao Needle and the valley below you.

Elsewhere on the trail, you can check out the Iao Stream and a small botanical garden.

Reservations are now required for entry, but there are usually plenty of available slots.

 

Waikamoi Ridge Trail

Located near Keanae Peninsula on the Road to Hana, the Waikamoi Ridge Trail is a short nature trail that travels through lush jungle.

This out-and-back route totals only 0.9 miles, so it’s perfect for those who dislike hiking long distances.

However, this trail does pose some minor challenges. It’s in the rainforest, which means it can often be muddy and, at times, slick. Secondly, tree roots have grown over the trail in some sections, which means sure footing is a must. And lastly, there is a few hundred feet of elevation gain.

Overall, this hike is a great pit stop for nature lovers who want to get amongst the trees. Views are minimal, but placards are posted along the route detailing which trees are which.

There is only room for a few cars in the parking lot, so try to get there early or double back later if the lot is full.

 

Oheo Gulch

Not to be confused with the Pipiwai Trail (also located in Haleakala National Park’s Kipahulu District), Oheo Gulch is a much easier, much shorter route that loops from the visitor center down to the coast.

At only 0.6 miles, it’s a painless trail to complete. The trail is easy to follow, with a bit of elevation gain at the end.

The best thing about this trail is the view of the coastline and the Pools of Oheo, which feature several tumbling waterfalls.

On the off chance you are looking for something more challenging, the Pipiwai Trail is located across the street and is one of Maui’s top hikes.

Entry to this section of Haleakala National Park is $30 per car. There is no food or potable water within the park, so plan accordingly.

We hope this helps prospective hikers prepare for their next visit to Maui! There is a lot more hiking on the island, both challenging and easy, so keep exploring Maui. We’ll see you here on the Valley Isle soon.

Happy travels!