Waihee Ridge Trail

The basics

You can explore the Waihee Ridge Trail and parts of the Waihee Valley on horseback riding tours and adventure tours of West Maui. However, the best way to tackle this scenic route is to strap on your hiking boots and hit the trailhead. Easily accessible from Hawaii Route 340 (also known as the Kahekili Highway), the trailhead is well-maintained but can be challenging because of its inclines. The walk to the Waiheʻe Ridge Trail Summit and back should take about three hours.

Things to know before you go

• Dogs are welcome on the trail if they're on a leash.

• Birdwatchers will want to watch for 'apapane, amakihi , and 'i'wii Hawaiian honeycreepers.

• There’s a picnic table at the trail’s end at the Waiheʻe Ridge Trail Summit.

• Sturdy hiking boots with a good grip are a must.

How to get there

The trail traverses the West Maui Forest Reserve on the east side of Maui. To reach the trailhead from Kahului, drive north along Hawaii Route 3400 to Route 340 past Waihee-Waiehu and turn left on Maluhia Road. The trailhead is a short drive down the road from the Camp Imua Helicopter Launch site.

When to get there

The trail is open and beautiful to visit year-round, but it's best to start your hike early at 8am or before. Not only will you arrive before the parking lot fills, but you can also catch the cloud patterns over the valley. They usually form by mid-morning and no later than early afternoon.

The best hikes on Maui

There are many other hiking trails on Maui worth visiting. Once you've conquered Waihee Ridge, you can try the Waimoku Falls via Pipiwai Trail in Haleakalā National Park, the Kapalua Coastal Trail near Lahaina, or the Makamakaole Stream: 13 Crossings trail near Wailuku. These popular trails don't even scratch the surface of hiking possibilities on Maui.

Ways to explore

You can explore the Waihee Ridge Trail and parts of the Waihee Valley on horseback riding tours and adventure tours of West Maui, which offer this route as an option for experienced hikers. Easily accessible from Hawaii Route 340 (also known as the Kahekili Highway), the path is well-maintained but can be challenging because of its inclines and slippery stretches after rainfall. The hike to the Waiheʻe Ridge Trail Summit and back should take about three hours.

Accessibility

This steep and unpaved trail is not accessible to wheelchairs.

Age limits

The Waihee Ridge Trail is not suitable for young children.

What to pack

Bug spray, camera, battery pack, water

What to wear

Hiking boots, comfortable clothing, layers, hat, sunscreen

Not allowed

The route passes through stretches of private land; hikers should stay on the marked trail.

Amenities

Portable restrooms at the trailhead, picnic table at the summit

Address

The Waihee Ridge Trail traverses the West Maui Forest Reserve on the east side of Maui. The only way to reach the trailhead is by driving or joining a guided hiking tour that includes transportation from Kahului or other island towns.

Driving

To reach the trailhead from Kahului, drive north along Hawaii Route 3400 to Route 340 past Waihee-Waiehu and turn left on Maluhia Road. The trailhead is a short drive down the road from the Camp Imua Helicopter Launch site. Park at the gravel lot at the trailhead or the overflow lot, a short distance away.

Public transportation

There is no public transportation to the Waihee Ridge Trail.

Best times to visit

Begin your hike in the early morning before the parking area fills up and the cloud cover reduces visibility.

Best days to visit

This popular trail is busiest on the weekends, so hike on a weekday morning to avoid the crowds.

Best months to visit

Winter rains can make the trail slippery, while the dry summer months are the safest seasons for hiking.