Waimoku Falls – Banyan Tree — Pīpīwai Trail loop from Wailua Falls
Waimoku Falls – Banyan Tree — Pīpīwai Trail loop from Wailua Falls
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Waimoku Falls – Banyan Tree — Pīpīwai Trail loop from Wailua Falls
04:15
14.3km
430m
Hiking
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: March 28, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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4.70 km
Haleakalā National Park Visitor Center
Highlight • Rest Area
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5.02 km
Pīpīwai Trail Bamboo Forest and Waterfalls
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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7.39 km
Waimoku Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
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7.42 km
Waterfall in Haleakalā National Park
Highlight • Waterfall
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8.25 km
Pipiwai Trail
Highlight • Trail
8.52 km
Bamboo Forest, Haleakalā National Park
Highlight • Forest
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9.09 km
Banyan Tree — Pīpīwai Trail
Highlight • Natural Monument
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9.38 km
Makahiku Falls viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
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14.3 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
8.75 km
5.42 km
160 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
8.68 km
5.42 km
182 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (260 m)
Lowest point (40 m)
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Weather
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Today
Friday 26 June
25°C
19°C
39 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're seeking one of Maui's most iconic rainforest hikes, the Pīpīwai Trail, leading to Waimoku Falls and past a giant Banyan Tree, is a moderate 8.9-mile (14.3 km) route with 1420 feet (433 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 14 minutes. Just be aware that despite the name, this incredible journey is entirely on Maui and doesn't connect to Wailua Falls on Kauaʻi. This trail is perfect for active visitors ready for an immersive jungle experience with big payoffs.
What to expect on Waimoku Falls – Banyan Tree — Pīpīwai Trail loop from Wailua Falls
The Pīpīwai Trail offers a diverse journey through a vibrant Hawaiian rainforest. You'll navigate varied jungle terrain, including mud paths, stone steps, and boardwalks, so sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are a must. Early in the hike, you'll reach an overlook for Makahiku Falls, a beautiful 185-foot to 200-foot cascade. Further along, you'll encounter a significant Giant Banyan Tree with sprawling, climbable branches, a true landmark. The trail then immerses you in an extensive bamboo forest, where towering stalks form a natural tunnel, swaying and creaking in the wind. The grand finale is the magnificent 400-foot Waimoku Falls, where water plunges down a sheer lava rock cliff. While rated moderate, the elevation gain, humidity, and potential for muddy, slick rocks can make it feel more challenging, suiting those who enjoy a rewarding effort.
Planning your visit
The Pīpīwai Trail is located within the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park on Maui. As it's part of a national park, you'll need to pay the park entrance fee. The trail is well-maintained, but conditions can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, so check the weather forecast. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential, and bringing plenty of water is always a good idea in the humid rainforest environment. Arriving early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure parking and enjoy the trail before it gets too crowded.
Trail details
- Distance: 8.9 miles (14.3 km)
- Elevation gain: 1420 feet (433 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 4 hours and 14 minutes
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