Each island in Hawaii offers something unique. But Maui is the place for everything that the state of Aloha can offer - from spectacular beachfront to mesmerizing views from its trails. It is home to exceptional landscapes that are more accessible compared to other islands in Hawaii. From challenging terrains to moon-like craters, Maui holds the most epic hikes in this list, below.

10 Kaupo Gap Trail

The Kaupo Trail is definitely not for the faint-hearted. This trail is considered the toughest trail in Maui. Running 6.9 miles long and could take days to hike back and forth. It may not be the longest trail on the island but it definitely is the most dangerous. It has steep terrains and the elevation changes a lot. Hikers easily get lost due to various loops within the trail, so it is advisable to bring a GPS. The trail begins at various points through the extreme trails of Haleakala.

  • Miles: 6.9
  • Elevation gain: 5,480 ft

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9 Haleakala Crater Trail

This trail is the longest trail in Maui with 12 miles long. Despite being the longest, still many hikers embark on the trail to see the crown jewel of Mt. Haleakala, the shield volcano which is believed to resemble the moon’s texture. With the trail’s entrance fee of $15, hikers can not only have access to the trail but also to the amenities along the way including the Haleakala Visitor Center.

  • Miles: 12
  • Elevation gain: 3,000 ft

8 Sliding Sand Trails

Sliding sand trails is one of the Haleakala crater hikes that tourists can choose from. It is one of the most challenging hikes to the crater. Tourists staying in Hana or Wailea can easily access this trek. The trail runs for 10 miles and depending on the pace of hikers, it can take a day or two to finish. It is important to begin trekking before sunrise to beat the heat and check the forecast to avoid extreme weather.

  • Miles: 10
  • Elevation gain: 2,800 ft

7 Mahana Ridge Trail

The Mahana Ridge is a two-in-one experience. It begins at the sandy beach of D.T. Fleming Beach, ascending to the forest which awaits the gorgeous wildflowers in Lahaina. Due to the distance of the trail, many tourists choose to reroute and head to the reservoir and make a way down from there. The trail is best hiked during the dry season because it can become challenging when it gets muddy.

  • Mile: 9.2
  • Elevation gain: 2000 ft

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6 Hoapili Trail

Hoapili offers so many historical treasures. Hundreds of years ago, it was part of the old Kings Highway built by King Pi’ilani. More than the historic landscape, hikers will enjoy a panoramic view of the crystal blue waters of Hawaii and hike alongside lava flow, which is what Hawaii is known for in general. This hike can last up to more than 5 miles due to reroutes and various trailheads but it is the most recommendable because it has little to no shade along the way.

  • Miles: 5.5
  • Elevation gain: 200 ft

5 Lahaina Pali Trail

From moderate to hard, this trail is the hike for hikers who may or may not be fully committed; one can always choose to go down after 5 miles with a view of the giant windmill or continue to the 10 miles trek. The trails begin at the beach of Ukemehame or in Maalaea. One unique thing about this trail is that hikers can arrange transport if they decide to no longer hike down. The path to Lahaina is over two hundred years old which used to connect the coast to the interior.

  • Miles: 5-10
  • Elevation gain: 1,600 ft

4 Pipiwai Trail

Uniquely, this trail features a path through the popular bamboo forest to the seven sacred pools. It takes only 2 hours to hike this popular trail back and forth, but including a dip in the sacred pool and picnic dates, it depends. Since it is surrounded by waterfalls, the trail could get muddy so it is advisable to trek during the dry season. A tip to remember is that the general entrance ticket to Haleakala National Park allows every tourist to hike any trails within the park including Pipiwai.

  • Miles: 4
  • Elevation gain: 800 ft

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3 Waihe’e Ridge Trail

Among all the hikes, this is one of the few moderate trails in Maui. It has a steady elevation which makes it easier to trek. Hikers will be greatly rewarded with a view of Waihee George and a free access waterfall at the top. However, an early trek is advised because it can get foggy and without a view of the trail ahead, it can get dangerous.

  • Miles: 5
  • Elevation gain: 1,700 ft

2 Poli Poli Trail System

With a view of Maui’s central valley and a look at the cypress forests, this hike offers it all. Just like other trails in this area like Haleakala Trail and more, it provides the hikers the opportunity to see wildlife plants that grow only in Hawaii. Since this is a trail through the forest, it is important to look out for the signs and borders – hikers sometimes get lost in this trail if they aren’t paying attention.

  • Miles: 3.5
  • Elevation gain: 2,400 ft

1 Kapalua Coastal Trail

At the nearby resorts of Lahaina, the Kapalua trail is a popular coastal hike in Maui. There are stunning views of the coast, as well as lava formations. In some seasons, hikers may spot a whale visiting the coast of Kapalua. This is the perfect hike for an adventure and for taking Instagram-worthy photos. Like any other coastal hike, there is little to no shade along the trail. Starting early is encouraged.

  • Miles: 3.5
  • Elevation gain: 150 ft

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