Makamakaole Trail
Embark on the adventurous Makamakaole Trail, a moderate jungle hike featuring thirteen stream crossings, lush bamboo forests, and rewarding waterfall swimming opportunities in West Maui.
- Multiple stream crossings
- Access to two waterfalls, including Makamakaole Falls
- Dense bamboo forest and banyan trees
- Lush, jungle-like environment
Makamakaole Trail is a West Maui hike for travelers who want something more hands-on than a scenic overlook. Set in the hills above Wailuku in Central Maui, the route is best known for its stream crossings, jungle cover, and waterfall payoff. It stands out because the journey is part of the attraction: instead of a dry ridge walk or a quick photo stop, this is a route that asks for balance, attention, and a little willingness to get muddy.
The “13 Crossings” character
The trail’s nickname says a lot about the experience. Much of the route follows Makamakaole Stream, and hikers repeatedly step across shallow water on rocks and uneven ground to work deeper into the valley. The setting is lush and enclosed, with bamboo, banyan trees, and the kind of green canopy that makes West Maui feel especially tropical after rain.
The main draw is the stream-valley setting and the waterfalls at the end of the hike, including the larger Makamakaole Falls. This is a route for people who like the idea of moving through a landscape rather than simply arriving at a viewpoint. It is more adventurous than many short Maui hikes, but not so long that it needs to dominate a whole day.
Where it fits in a Maui day
Makamakaole Trail works well as a half-day outing from the Wailuku or Kahului side of the island. That makes it a good fit for travelers staying in Central Maui who want a nature stop without committing to the longer drive and fuller-day planning that many East Maui waterfall outings require.
The hike is roughly a couple of miles round trip and usually takes about an hour or two, depending on conditions and how much time is spent at the falls. Early starts make the most sense because parking is limited and the trail is easier to enjoy before the day heats up. It also pairs well with a slower Central Maui day that includes Wailuku, the West Maui shoreline, or another short hike nearby.
The tradeoffs: mud, floods, and a narrow road
This is not a polished, boardwalk-style trail. Conditions can be slippery, rocky, and muddy, especially after rain. Good footwear matters more here than on many Maui hikes, and anything with traction is a better choice than casual sandals. Trekking poles can help with the repeated crossings.
Weather deserves real caution. Stream hikes become much less forgiving when rainfall raises water levels, and flash flooding is the biggest hazard to take seriously. If rain is in the forecast or the stream looks high, this is not the hike to push through.
Access also requires a little judgment. The trailhead sits off Kahekili Highway, and the road north of the approach becomes very narrow, with steep drop-offs and little margin for error. Parking is limited to roadside shoulder space, so planning an early arrival is wise. There are no practical trailhead facilities to count on.
Best for hikers who want a wild, local-feeling route
Makamakaole Trail suits travelers who enjoy moderate hikes with a bit of unpredictability, especially if waterfall scenery and stream crossings sound more appealing than open views. It is a strong option for active visitors who do not mind getting their feet wet and who want a route that feels more tucked away than the island’s better-known signature trails.
It is less ideal for travelers who prefer dry, clearly marked paths, who are uncomfortable with slippery footing, or who want a low-stress outing with straightforward parking and easy access. For those people, a ridge hike or a more developed trail will be a better match.
