Check out the best hikes in Maui with awesome hiking trails, perfect for adventurous travelers who want to do a little hiking on Maui. Scroll down to read them all!
This Maui hiking trails post was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Let me be upfront about something: I haven’t personally hiked all 14 of these trails.
What I have done is visit Hawaii over 40 times since I was 10 years old. My grandmother lived part-time on Kauai, my mom still lives there, and I’ve spent over 20 years dancing hula.
I’m a Certified Hawaii Destination Specialist who’s made it my job to know which trails work for families and which ones don’t.
The two hikes I keep coming back to? Iao Valley (done it about 5 times with my boys) and Waikamoi Ridge (hiked it on our last Road to Hana trip). Those get my first-person honest takes below.
For the other trails, I’m ranking them based on hundreds of conversations with families I’ve helped plan Hawaii trips, trail condition reports, my professional research, and what consistently works (or doesn’t) for families visiting Maui.
I’m Marcie Cheung, and I host the Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast where I share the unfiltered version of family travel in Hawaii.
This guide is updated for 2026 with current fees, reservation requirements, and the kind of details generic travel guides miss.
Quick Stats You Actually Need
- Haleakala National Park fee: $30 per vehicle (valid 3 days for both Summit and Kipahulu districts)
- Iao Valley reservations: Required for non-residents – $10 parking + $5 per person
- Best time to hike: Mornings before 9am (everything fills up fast)
- What families tell me actually works: Anything under 2 miles with a destination payoff
The Rankings (Based on What Works for Families)
1. Iao Valley State Park – Short, Sweet, and My Kids’ Favorite
0.6 miles | Easy | $10 parking + $5/person + reservation required
This is the one I’ve done about 5 times with my two boys, starting when they could barely walk. It’s become our Maui tradition.
Here’s why it keeps topping my list: it’s paved, it takes 20-30 minutes max, and nobody whines.
The trail has about 133 steps up to viewing platforms where you see the Iao Needle – this 1,200-foot green rock jutting up from the valley floor.
There’s a stream at the bottom where kids splash around (not technically allowed, but everyone does it anyway).
My boys love the mystical vibe when mist rolls through the mountains. And honestly? After doing this hike 5 times over the years, I still find it beautiful.
It’s not the most dramatic hike on Maui, but it’s consistently good.
The 2026 update you need to know: Out-of-state visitors now need advance reservations. Hawaii residents with valid ID still get in free without reservations.
Book on gostateparks.hawaii.gov up to 30 days in advance. They fill up fast during peak season.
Parking is $10 per vehicle and entrance is $5 per person (kids under 3 are free). Last reservation slot is 4:30pm, you must enter by 5pm.
Pro tip from experience: Book your Iao Valley reservation before you even book your flights. I learned this the hard way when we showed up on a busy Saturday and couldn’t get in.
The Hawaii State Parks website sometimes crashes during peak booking times (mornings Pacific time). Try booking in the evening instead.
Want more West Maui family activities? My Maui Travel Guide for Families has the full breakdown.
2. Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls – The One Everyone Raves About
4 miles roundtrip | Moderate | $30 Haleakala National Park fee
I haven’t personally done this one (it’s on my list for our next trip), but Pipiwai is hands-down the trail families rave about most. The bamboo forest alone seems to make the whole 4-mile trek worth it.
From what families tell me: the trail takes you through the most surreal bamboo forest where wind makes the stalks creak and groan. Then you end at Waimoku Falls – a 400-foot waterfall cascading down the cliff.
You pass Makahiku Falls viewpoint early (about 0.5 miles in), then hit the boardwalk section through bamboo around mile 1.5.
One mom told me her kids still talk about the bamboo forest months later, which says a lot.
The reality check families give me: It’s 4 miles total, which is LONG for little kids. Plan 3-4 hours when you factor in snacks, photos, and bathroom breaks.
The trail gets muddy and slippery even when it hasn’t rained recently. According to the National Park Service, this trail closes during heavy rain due to flash flood danger.
Safety warning from trail reports: People have died from falling rocks at Waimoku Falls. Stay behind the warning signs at the waterfall. It’s tempting to get closer, but not worth the risk.
The trailhead is at Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park, about 10 miles past Hana town. Your $30 park entrance fee (valid 3 days) covers both this area and Haleakala Summit.
Common mistake families tell me about: Starting this hike after spending the whole morning on Road to Hana stops. Everyone’s exhausted by mile 2. Make this your main activity for the day or do it early.
Swimming at Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) right by the parking area has been closed indefinitely as of 2026, but you can still walk the loop trail to view them.
Check out my complete Road to Hana guide or grab my free 7-day email course on planning a trip to Maui.
3. Twin Falls – Looks Better on Instagram Than in Person
0.25 to 2 miles | Easy | $10 parking
Based on what I hear from families and what I’ve read in forums, Twin Falls is kind of disappointing.
It’s the first waterfall stop on Road to Hana (mile marker 2). The lower falls are only a 10-15 minute walk. There’s a cute fruit stand with banana bread.
But one honest TripAdvisor reviewer put it perfectly: “What a sad little waterfall after a mile trek in 90 degree humid heat.”
What families say works: The pools are good for swimming when water levels are safe. Kids can splash around. The trail is genuinely easy for young children. The property has bathrooms and is well-maintained.
What doesn’t work: It gets PACKED. The $10 parking lot fills up by 9am. By the time you’re at the waterfall, you’re sharing it with 50+ other people.
If you’re doing Road to Hana anyway, sure, stop for 30 minutes. But don’t make a special trip when Pipiwai Trail exists.
Book it: If you don’t want to drive yourself, check Road to Hana tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
4. Waikamoi Ridge Trail – My Quick Leg-Stretcher
0.8 miles | Easy | Free
Okay, this one I actually hiked on our last Road to Hana drive. My honest take? It’s… fine.
The trail is right around mile marker 9.5 on the Hana Highway, making it easy to find (actual parking exists, which is rare on this drive). It loops through rainforest with some valley views. Takes maybe 30-45 minutes.
My boys thought it was okay but not memorable. There’s no waterfall. No swimming hole. Just jungle, some steps, and birds. We needed to get out of the car and move our legs, and this worked for that purpose.
What I learned: The trail gets muddy and slippery on the steps. Exposed tree roots everywhere. We wore our Tevas with good tread and managed fine, but flip flops would be a nightmare.
There are picnic tables at the upper viewpoint if you want a snack break.
One Rick Steves forum user said “IMO hiking in Hawaii in general kind of sucks, Maui included. Bad trails, weird destinations.” Which feels harsh but also… I get it after hiking Waikamoi. It’s nice but not special.
5. Kapalua Coastal Trail – The Flat Ocean Walk
2.5 miles roundtrip | Easy | Parking $29 (or free with patience)
Families consistently recommend this coastal trail between Kapalua Bay and D.T. Fleming Beach.
It’s perfect for families who want ocean views without actual hiking – it’s mostly flat. The path mixes boardwalk, pavement, lava rock, and sand.
Sea turtle sightings are common according to trail reports. During whale season (November through May), you might spot humpback whales breaching offshore. The wind is constant and strong.
The parking situation will make you angry: Some lots charge $29 to park for a free public trail. Your options: pay it, arrive early for limited free spots at Oneloa Bay beach access, or find street parking nearby (good luck).
Trail is great. Parking fee is offensive. Plan accordingly.
Book accommodations: Find family-friendly Kapalua resorts on Expedia and walk to the trail.
6. Sliding Sands Trail – The Altitude Challenge
5+ miles roundtrip | Difficult | $30 Haleakala National Park fee
This trail drops you into Haleakala crater at 10,000 feet elevation. It looks like Mars – red and orange cinder cones, volcanic rock, silversword plants.
Based on trail reports and what families tell me: it’s all downhill going in (feels easy!) but you have to climb back UP at altitude where there’s less oxygen. This is genuinely hard.
The National Park Service recommends turning around at 2.5 miles for day hikers. The views from that point are spectacular.
One detail nobody mentions: There are no trees or bushes anywhere on this trail. Zero privacy. This came up in forum discussions – if you need a bathroom break, you’re doing it in front of the whole crater.
Good for kids? Only teens in excellent shape who are prepared for altitude. Families need to bring layers (it’s 40-50°F up there even when it’s 85°F at the beach), sunscreen, and way more water than seems reasonable.
Need help planning your Maui itinerary? I offer personalized Hawaii travel consultations where we map out everything based on your family’s interests.
7. Waihee Ridge Trail – The View Worth the Sweat
4 miles roundtrip | Difficult | Free
Waihee Ridge climbs about 1,500 feet into the West Maui Mountains. Hikers call it the best views on Maui with valley views on one side and ocean on the other.
The trail is steep from the start – you gain all that elevation in 2 miles. Challenging even for regular hikers. But the ridge line views seem worth it based on reports.
Weather warning: This trail gets MUDDY after rain (which is often). Good hiking boots are essential. The trail can get socked in with clouds. Try early morning for best chance of clear views.
Finding it: Look for Camp Maluhia BSA sign off Kahekili Highway. Limited parking – arrive by 7-7:30am.
Family-friendly? Only for fit teens. Not casual.
Book your rental car early – Maui can have limited availability during peak season.
8. Hosmer Grove Trail – The Quick Summit Stop
0.5 miles | Easy | $30 Haleakala National Park fee
This easy loop near Haleakala park entrance (at about 7,000 feet) takes you through mountain forest with introduced trees like eucalyptus and pine mixed with native plants.
It’s short (20-30 minutes), mostly level, and families say it’s a nice introduction to the park if you’re not ready for Sliding Sands. Good for bird watching – you might see native Hawaiian honeycreepers.
Why families like it: Easy enough for young kids. There’s a campground here (first-come, first-served, free with park admission). The elevation helps you acclimate before going to the summit.
The limitation: It’s nice but not spectacular. If you’re paying $30 for the park anyway, you want to do more than just this 20-minute loop.
Combine it: Do this on your way to or from Haleakala summit. Grab my free 5-day email course on traveling to Hawaii like a pro.
9. Kings Gardens Waterfall Hike – The Chocolate Tour
About 1 mile | Easy | Guided tours only, pricing varies
This is completely different because it’s a guided experience on private conservation land. You can’t access it on your own.
The tour combines an easy rainforest walk with chocolate-making demonstration and tasting. You see native plants, learn Hawaiian history, explore ancient royal gardens, and taste artisan chocolate made from cacao grown on site.
Families tell me kids love the chocolate part (obviously). The guides know everything about Hawaiian plants and culture.
Book it: Tours run at 10am and 2pm daily. Reserve through their website.
Who it’s good for: Families who want a taste of Road to Hana jungle without driving the whole route. Perfect for limited time or young kids who can’t handle the long drive.
10. Lahaina Pali Trail – Hot, Dry, and Skippable
5 miles one-way | Challenging | Free
This historic trail follows the route ancient Hawaiians used between Lahaina and Wailuku. It climbs 1,600 feet with cultural significance.
But based on hiker reports: it’s “dry and brown” and disappointing. It’s hot, exposed, rocky, and honestly not that scenic compared to other Maui hikes.
One hiker described it: “Fairly strenuous climbing… Lots of rocks to pick your way through. Bleh – I get enough of that hiking in the desert.”
What works: It’s a good workout. The historical connection is interesting. Ocean views the whole way.
What doesn’t: No shade. No water sources. Lots of brown scrubland.
Who might enjoy it: Fit families with older kids who want a workout and historical connection. Everyone else can skip it.
11. Hoapili Trail (King’s Highway) – Lava Fields and Heat
Up to 6 miles roundtrip | Moderate | Free
The Hoapili Trail crosses ancient lava fields at Maui’s southern tip (La Perouse Bay). It follows an old Hawaiian road from the 1800s with remnants of ancient villages.
What sounds cool: Black lava rock against turquoise water. Raw and untouched feeling. Dolphins or whales offshore during season. Tide pools to explore.
What doesn’t sound cool: Brutal HEAT with zero shade. The lava rock radiates heat. The terrain is rough and uneven – you’re picking your way across sharp lava the whole time.
Family-friendly rating: Sort of. Older kids who don’t mind heat and rocky trails will manage. Younger kids might struggle.
Families report: even a mile or two out and back gives you a taste. Bring triple the water you think you need. Closed-toe shoes are non-negotiable.
12. Nakalele Blowhole Trail – Cool But Dangerous
1.5 miles roundtrip | Moderate | Free
The Nakalele Blowhole shoots water 50+ feet in the air when waves crash into lava rock. It’s dramatic and fun to watch.
But people have died here. The rocks near the blowhole are slippery and rogue waves are real. Keep kids well back from the edge.
The trail down is short but steep and rocky. The coastline has unique rock formations and Nakalele Point Lighthouse in the distance.
Best time: Morning for photos. High tide for blowhole action, low tide for tide pools.
Safety: Watch from a safe distance. Don’t turn your back on the ocean. Supervise kids closely.
Families tell me kids who love climbing on rocks have fun here. But it’s more adventure than traditional hike.
Find unique Maui activities on Get Your Guide.
13. Ohai Loop Trail – The Easy Kapalua Walk
1.2 miles | Easy | Free
The Ohai Loop is a gentle coastal walk through native plants with ocean views. It’s part of the Kapalua trail system.
Based on trail reports: pleasant but not special. Less dramatic than other coastal trails. One of those hikes that’s nice if you’re already in Kapalua but not worth a special trip.
You can push a sturdy all-terrain stroller here. Connects to other paths if you want to extend it.
Good for: Easy morning walk when staying in Kapalua. Young kids who need something mellow.
14. Dragon’s Teeth Trail – Quick Rock Formations
1 mile roundtrip | Easy | Free
Dragon’s Teeth (officially Makaluapuna Point) is a short coastal walk to jagged lava rock formations that really do look like dragon teeth. Perfect for photos.
Why families like it: The rocks look cool. Kids can (carefully) climb on some. It’s short – no one complains. Waves crashing against rocks are dramatic.
Be careful: The rocks are sharp. Watch kids closely. Keep them back from cliff edges. The ocean here is rough with powerful waves.
Photo tip: Late afternoon for golden hour lighting.
Families say this is a quick 20-30 minute stop that feels more unique than just another beach walk.
Comparison Table: Maui Family Hikes at a Glance
| Trail | Miles | Difficulty | Entry Fee | Kid-Friendly? | Worth It? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iao Valley | 0.6 | Easy | $10 parking + $5/person | Ages 2+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Yes |
| Pipiwai Trail | 4 | Moderate | $30 NP | Ages 6+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Absolutely |
| Twin Falls | 0.25-2 | Easy | $10 | All ages ⭐⭐⭐ | Overhyped but okay |
| Waikamoi Ridge | 0.8 | Easy | Free | Ages 4+ ⭐⭐⭐ | Decent leg-stretcher |
| Kapalua Coastal | 2.5 | Easy | $29 (!) | All ages ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Yes despite parking fee |
| Sliding Sands | 5+ | Hard | $30 NP | Teens only ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | If you’re fit |
| Waihee Ridge | 4 | Hard | Free | Teens ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Best views on Maui |
| Hosmer Grove | 0.5 | Easy | $30 NP | All ages ⭐⭐⭐ | Add-on to summit visit |
| Kings Gardens | 1 | Easy | Varies | All ages ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | If you like chocolate |
| Lahaina Pali | 5 | Hard | Free | No ⭐⭐ | Skip it |
| Hoapili Trail | 6 | Moderate | Free | Ages 8+ ⭐⭐⭐ | Unique but hot |
| Nakalele Blowhole | 1.5 | Moderate | Free | Ages 8+ ⭐⭐⭐ | Cool but risky |
| Ohai Loop | 1.2 | Easy | Free | All ages ⭐⭐⭐ | Pleasant but forgettable |
| Dragon’s Teeth | 1 | Easy | Free | Ages 5+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Quick and unique |
What I Pack for Maui Hikes (Based on What Works)
Essential every time:
- Water bottles (one per person minimum, two for longer hikes)
- Reef-safe sunscreen (required by law in Hawaii)
- Hats with brims
- Hiking shoes or water sandals with good tread (NOT flip flops)
- Snacks (hangry kids = miserable hikes)
- Small first-aid kit
- Bug spray for jungle hikes
- Phone for photos and emergencies
For longer hikes:
- Full lunch
- Extra layers (temperature changes fast)
- Portable phone charger
- Emergency whistle
Shop hiking gear on Amazon before your trip.
Common Mistakes I Hear About (So You Don’t Make Them)
Showing up without Iao Valley reservations: Families get turned away. Book reservations before booking flights.
Starting Pipiwai at 2pm after a full morning: Everyone’s exhausted and cranky by mile 2. Make this your main activity or do it early.
Wearing flip flops to muddy trails: I made this mistake at Waikamoi. Don’t be me. Wear real shoes.
Not bringing enough water on hot, exposed trails: Families report getting dehydrated on Hoapili and Lahaina Pali. Triple what you think you need.
Expecting Twin Falls to be amazing: Set expectations accordingly. It’s fine but not magical.
Letting kids get too close to dangerous spots: Nakalele Blowhole, Waimoku Falls falling rocks – keep kids way back.
FAQs (Questions Families Actually Ask Me)
Do I really need reservations for Iao Valley now?
Yes, if you’re a non-resident (out-of-state visitor). Hawaii residents with valid ID get in free without reservations. Book on gostateparks.hawaii.gov up to 30 days in advance. They don’t offer refunds for weather.
Which hike is actually best for toddlers?
Based on my own experience: Iao Valley. Paved, short, lots of railings. My boys have done it since they could walk.
Is Twin Falls worth the stop?
Eh. If you’re already doing Road to Hana, sure, stop for 30 minutes. But don’t make a special trip. Families consistently rank Pipiwai way higher.
Can you still swim at Seven Sacred Pools?
No, swimming has been closed indefinitely at Oheo Gulch as of 2026. You can view the pools from the trail but can’t get in the water.
Do I need hiking boots?
For paved trails (Iao Valley): no, sneakers are fine. For muddy jungle trails (Pipiwai, Waikamoi): yes, you want boots or water sandals with real tread. For lava trails (Hoapili): yes, closed-toe shoes with ankle support.
When should we start Haleakala sunrise hikes?
Sunrise reservations are required for entering the park 3am-7am. They cost $1 extra and book up 60 days in advance.
But honestly? Sunrise means getting up at 2am, driving in the dark, freezing for 2+ hours. Unless you’re really into it, I’d recommend the summit mid-morning instead.
How long does Road to Hana take with hiking stops?
If you’re stopping at Twin Falls, Waikamoi, and doing full Pipiwai Trail, plan 10-12 hours. Start by 6-7am. Check my complete Road to Hana guide for realistic timing.
My Actual Ranking for Different Families
For families with toddlers (ages 2-4):
- Iao Valley (I’ve done this with my boys at this age – it works)
- Dragon’s Teeth
- Hosmer Grove
For families with elementary kids (ages 5-10):
- Pipiwai Trail (families rave about this one)
- Iao Valley
- Twin Falls
- Kapalua Coastal Trail
For families with teens:
- Pipiwai Trail
- Waihee Ridge
- Sliding Sands (if they’re fit)
- Nakalele Blowhole
If you can only do TWO hikes total:
- Iao Valley (quick, easy, satisfying – and I can personally vouch for it)
- Pipiwai Trail (families consistently say the bamboo forest is unforgettable)
Final Thoughts from a Hawaii Expert
After 40+ trips to Hawaii and helping hundreds of families plan their Maui vacations, here’s what I know for sure:
The “best” hike isn’t always the most Instagram-worthy one. Sometimes it’s just the one where nobody melts down.
Start easy. Build confidence. Pack excessive snacks. Book Iao Valley reservations early. And based on what I hear from families: don’t do Pipiwai in the afternoon after a full morning of Road to Hana stops.
Maybe skip Twin Falls. Multiple families have told me it’s overrated.
If you’re overwhelmed planning your Maui trip, I offer personalized Hawaii travel consultations where I create a custom itinerary based on your family.
I’ve spent 40+ trips learning what works – let me help you avoid common mistakes.
Ready to start planning? Grab my Maui Travel Guide for Families or my free 7-day email course on planning a Maui trip.
Document your Maui adventures with professional photos – book Flytographer and save $20 with my link.
See you on the trails. Probably at Iao Valley, because that’s the one I actually keep doing.
Related Guides:
- Best Road to Hana Stops for Families
- Oahu Travel Guide for Families
- Kauai Travel Guide for Families
- Big Island Travel Guide for Families
- Hawaii Island Hopping Guide
Listen to Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast for more family travel tips.
