This trail in central Maui near the country seat of Wailuku is actually one of the few state maintained trails on the Valley Isle that lie relatively close to the major resort areas. Most trails are further up Haleakala Volcano or in the Hana area. The Waihee Ridge Trail is a fairly steep climb but not critical, although Sunday morning hikers will definitely get a full workout. The views from the peak (called Lanihili) are phenomenal, covering the isthmus of Central Maui and Waihee Canyon below. The vertical ascent is 1500 feet, from the trailhead at 1100 feet. There are a number of switchbacks and plenty of guava trees for trailside snacks (they can be seedy, though). Pack plenty of water and a sweatshirt, as it can get cool and windy at the higher elevations. The hike is six miles round trip and should take between three and four hours. There are better hikes on Maui for viewing endemic flora but this is a top-grade hike for folks who want to hit the trail and make it back to the beach for an afternoon dip. The ocean views from the trail are also, quite simply, amazing.

Directions: From Kahekili Highway (340), turn up Maluhia Road and go 0.9 miles. A sign on a fence marks the trail head. Follow right-of-way markers through pasture before entering forest.

Na Ala Hele (Hawaii State Trail System), NYT Article on Waihee Ridge Trail

—Alex, 09/20/06