In March of 2016 Sara and I flew to Maui to stay with a friend for a couple weeks.  We stayed in Kihei most of the time but drove around a good chunk of the island doing day hikes in various places.  On a return trip, I’d definetely backpacking for a couple nights in the Haleakala crater.

Points of Interest

• Haleakala
• Iao Valley
• Waiʻanapanapa State Park

 

Haleakala

Haleakala towers above and accounts for a solid chunk of East Maui.  Outside of a research station and the National Park facilities there isn’t much up there.  It’s incredibly beautiful, known for its sunrise and sunset views.  The altitude up there is ~10,000ft, but for whatever reason, the hiking didn’t feel like it was at that elevation.  It’s about as close to Mars as I ever plan on getting.

 

Iao Valley

Iao Valley is a rainforest Valley in West Maui.  There’s a short official hike and then a popular, fun, but unofficial trail.  You can find the trailhead in some Yelp reviews and easily on Google.  It follows the ridge and higher ground for the most part so it has a bit of exposure and some no fall sections.

 

Waiʻanapanapa State Park

Wai’anapanapa State Park is on the north east part of Maui.  It’s a lot different from any state parks I’ve been to in the lower 48 – there weren’t any designated campsites, just a field you could pitch your tent it.  It reminded me more of a music festival type camping experience than a state park.  No complaints though, there were great views, a black sand beach, and nice facilities.