Maui’s West Side is an ideal spot for hiking. Conveniently close to your stay at Kahana Village is the famous Lahaina Pali trail. This is perhaps one of the island’s most challenging hikes. In Hawaiian, “Pali” means slope or cliff, which is telling of the rugged terrain on the trail.
This trail is perfect for adventure seekers and fitness junkies. Otherwise, anyone can enjoy smaller portions of the trail. The trailhead starts out near sea level and increases to 1600 feet within 2.5 miles. The trail itself is rocky. If you are in good shape, the hike takes approximately 3 hours.
The beauty of the Pali hike is a stunning panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, Central Valley, Haleakala and neighboring islands Kahoolawe and Lanai. Hikers are also privy to rare wildlife including the nēnē (goose) and pueo (short-eared owl). You’ll also have a close-up view of the towering wind turbines at Kealaloloa Ridge.
Trailheads are on both sides of the Lahaina Pali Trail, west and east. We recommend you start with the west trailhead, just after Ukumehame Beach State Park off Honoapiilani Road. It’s also a great choice during the winter season to see whales breaching! Parking is available on the left side of the highway before the tunnel.
If you finish the entire 5.5-mile trail, you’ll end up on the east side, off the intersection of Honoapiilani Highway and North Kihei Road. You’ll need a car at this end to pick you up, unless you plan to hike back making the distance a whopping 11 miles!
This hike is best in the early morning. The dry landscape does not provide cover later in the day. Bring appropriate hiking shoes, a light jacket, bottled water and a camera for the stunning view! Be prepared to enjoy this adventure and add it to your many Maui memories!
