Waihee Ridge Trail Maui
A challenging 5-mile hike with steep inclines and muddy paths, rewarding you with breathtaking panoramic views of Maui's mountains and coastline.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat clouds & crowds
Waihee Ridge Trail Maui
Best Time
Beat clouds & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging 5-mile hike with steep inclines and muddy paths, rewarding you with breathtaking panoramic views of Maui's mountains and coastline.
"This hike had not some of, but the best views I have ever seen in my life. They were spectacular."
🥾 Wear Proper Hiking Boots
Crucial for grip on steep, muddy, and slippery terrain. Avoid sneakers!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this challenging climb. No facilities available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain & Ocean Vistas
Throughout the trail
Experience unparalleled views of lush green mountains, deep gorges, and the sparkling Pacific Ocean.
The Summit Lookout
Trail summit
Reach the peak for a rewarding, cloud-kissed panorama that makes the challenging climb absolutely worth it.
Mid-Trail Scenic Overlook
Approximately halfway up
Even if you don't make it to the summit, this lookout offers spectacular, breathtaking views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Gear Up for Mud & Elevation
Timing is Everything for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Proper Hiking Boots
Crucial for grip on steep, muddy, and slippery terrain. Avoid sneakers!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this challenging climb. No facilities available.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Main lot fills fast. Overflow parking adds uphill walk.
☁️ Check Weather for Views
Clouds can obscure summit views. Early morning is best.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Proper Hiking Boots
Crucial for grip on steep, muddy, and slippery terrain. Avoid sneakers!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this challenging climb. No facilities available.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Main lot fills fast. Overflow parking adds uphill walk.
☁️ Check Weather for Views
Clouds can obscure summit views. Early morning is best.
🌿 Watch for Strawberry Guava
Wild fruit may be in season (early August). Try if you dare!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Waihee Ridge Trail is widely praised as one of Maui's most beautiful hikes, offering unparalleled mountain and ocean views. However, hikers consistently warn that it's a challenging, steep, and often muddy trail requiring proper hiking boots and plenty of water. Parking can also be difficult to secure early in the day.
"HIKING BOOTS! But it is simply the most beautiful hike you will ever go on if you've never been to a tropical area! Breathtaking views, especially if you can beat the clouds and get there early before the parking lot fills. There is a backup parking lot a mile below down the paved road. Even if it hasn't rained the rocks and ground are very slick this is why you need a hiking boots not tennis shoes. If you do that you will have the best hike you've ever been on!"
Matthew Perez
"The best hike on the island, but please be prepared! It's not an easy walk! Make sure you have comfortable shoes you don't mind getting dirty and enough water.
This trail is about 2 miles one way with 1500 ft elevation gain. You feel it when you are walking! We witnessed so many people attempting to take this trail without proper shoes or water and turning back, that's why I am writing this - get ready!
Parking lot fills up fast, so try to get there early. There was broken glass on the ground, so don't leave anything valuable in your car. Lower/overflow parking lot will add a hike uphill for you, but if you wait around at the main one, you will get a spot as people come and go.
Another reason to be there early is to get best views from the peak. It is disappointing to make it to the very top to see... nothing. We spent about 4 hours there (with much needed breaks on the they up, as well as breaks for pictures).
There are no restrooms anywhere near, so plan accordingly.
The views are amazing and probably don't change much from half way up. There was a bit of tropical rain, which was very refreshing, but def not requiring a raincoat or umbrella.
We visited in early August and Strawberry Guava was in season (wild). It was pretty to see and interesting flavor to try.
Our teenage boys liked first half of the trail. Making stops to rest was necessary to keep going.
Highly recommend this trail!"
Ana S
"A beautiful trail but hard due to the uneven trail. Not much shade in the latter parts. Coming down was harder on my knees because the rocks were slippery. The first and last 1/2 mile are the steepest. Took us about 3 hrs because we stopped a lot. The views of the surrounding peaks and Maui North Shore are unparalleled. Parking is difficult. No bathrooms and no water. Bring plenty."
An Pan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Waihee Ridge Trail trailhead is located in Wailuku, Maui. From Kahului Airport, head west on HI-380 W, which becomes HI-340 W (Kahekili Highway). Follow Kahekili Highway towards Waihee. The trailhead parking lot will be on your right. Some GPS systems might direct you via Kahekili Highway, which can be a more scenic but winding route.
Yes, there is a main parking lot at the trailhead. However, it fills up very quickly, especially on weekends and during peak hours. If the main lot is full, there's an overflow parking lot about a mile down the road, but this adds an extra uphill hike to your journey.
The most common route is via Kahekili Highway (HI-340 W). While scenic, be aware that parts of this road can be narrow and winding. Some travelers suggest it's best to drive it during daylight hours.
Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft may be available in Maui, but their availability and reliability directly at the Waihee Ridge Trail trailhead can be inconsistent. It's advisable to have a backup plan or confirm with the service beforehand.
Public transportation options directly to the Waihee Ridge Trail are limited. It's generally recommended to have a rental car for easier access to most hiking trails on Maui, including this one.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to hike the Waihee Ridge Trail. It is a public trail managed by the state or county.
The trail is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, it's best to start your hike early in the morning to maximize daylight and potentially catch clearer views before the clouds roll in.
There is no admission fee to hike the Waihee Ridge Trail. The primary costs associated with the hike are transportation and any personal gear or supplies you bring.
While technically possible, hiking the Waihee Ridge Trail at night is not recommended due to safety concerns. The trail can be slippery and uneven, and visibility is significantly reduced, increasing the risk of injury.
No reservations are needed for the Waihee Ridge Trail. It's a public access trail, and entry is on a first-come, first-served basis for parking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Waihee Ridge Trail is approximately 5 miles round trip with about 1500 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers take between 3 to 4 hours to complete the hike, including stops for photos and breaks. Some faster hikers have reported completing it in 45 minutes to an hour up.
The Waihee Ridge Trail is considered a moderate to challenging hike. It features steep inclines, uneven terrain, and can be very muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Proper footwear is essential.
You can expect breathtaking panoramic views of the West Maui Mountains, lush valleys, gorges, and the Pacific Ocean. The views are spectacular, though they can be obscured by clouds, especially later in the day.
No, there are no restrooms available at the Waihee Ridge Trailhead or along the trail. It's important to plan accordingly and use facilities before you arrive.
The Waihee Ridge Trail can be challenging for young children due to its steepness and slippery conditions. Older children and teenagers who are accustomed to hiking may enjoy it, but parental supervision is crucial. Some reviewers noted their teenage boys enjoyed the first half.
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn on the Waihee Ridge Trail offers incredible photo opportunities. The mid-trail lookout provides stunning vistas, and the summit offers a rewarding panorama. Don't forget to capture the lush greenery and dramatic cliffs.
Early morning is ideal for photography to capture the best light and potentially clearer views before clouds obscure the landscape. The golden hour light can also be beautiful, but be mindful of the trail conditions.
Drone usage regulations can vary. While some videos show drone footage, it's essential to check current FAA and local regulations regarding drone operation in protected natural areas like this before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions or capturing long exposures. Most importantly, ensure your gear is protected from potential rain or mud.
Keep an eye out for the lush tropical vegetation and potentially some friendly cows grazing nearby, which can add a unique element to your photos. The dramatic cloud formations can also create stunning photographic moments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure everyone has appropriate footwear – sturdy hiking boots are a must. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities. Consider the early morning timing to avoid the worst of the heat and crowds, making the experience more pleasant for the whole family.
👟 Budget Travelers
To maximize your savings, pack your own snacks and water instead of buying them near the trailhead. Arriving early to secure free parking in the main lot also saves you the potential hassle and time of using the overflow lot.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes. Be prepared for dynamic weather; the clouds can add dramatic flair to your photos. Remember to protect your gear from potential mud and rain, and always be mindful of your footing while composing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conquering the Waihee Ridge Trail: A Hiker's Guide
Views are the primary reward here. As you climb, you'll be treated to increasingly dramatic vistas of the West Maui Mountains, deep gorges, and the vast Pacific Ocean. Even if you don't reach the summit, a mid-trail lookout point provides breathtaking views that many find comparable to the very top. Arriving early is highly recommended not only to secure parking but also to catch the clearest views before the island's characteristic clouds roll in.
Beyond the physical challenge, hikers should be aware of the lack of facilities. There are no restrooms or water sources along the trail, so carrying ample water and planning bathroom breaks before you start is crucial. Some visitors have noted the presence of wild strawberry guava in season (around August), offering a unique taste of the local flora.
What to Expect: Trail Conditions and Safety
While the trail is well-defined, the steep elevation gain means it's a strenuous hike. The first and last half-mile sections are particularly steep. Coming down can be harder on the knees due to the uneven and slippery terrain.
Cloud cover is a common occurrence, especially later in the day. While the views are still impressive, reaching the summit during a clear morning offers the most rewarding photographic opportunities and unobstructed panoramas. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, though a light rain shower is often refreshing rather than problematic.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit