See a Different Side of Maui on the Waihou Spring Trail
“Fun, but not too much elevation gain and not too long since we’re catching a flight in a bit.”
This was the criteria my sister, Leigh Anne, and brother-in-law, Danny gave us on one of their recent visits to Maui from their home on Oahu. After a bit of Googling, we all agreed to check out a hike we had never previously done – Waihou Spring Trail – located Upcountry in the Olinda/Makawao area.
Experience Cooler Temps & Dense Forest
As soon as you get out of your car, you’ll feel the cool air that you might miss back at Maui’s sea level. You’ll also likely feel dwarfed by this forest of huge trees, which includes a variety of Koa, Monterey, Cypress, Eucalyptus, ‘Ala’a and Halapepe!
According to… the Department of Land & Natural Resources, the Waihou Spring Forest Reserve was created in 1909 in an effort to preserve the only perennial spring on the slopes of Haleakala. The result of these conservation efforts takes you on a well-maintained trail through an area designated as “tree growth research” by the Hawaii State Division of Forestry and U.S. Forest Service.
Enjoy the serenity of the forest!
Pause and reflect on your way to the Springs.
Useful Trail Information
Additional Things To Consider
Parking — Conveniently located at the trail head
Hike Difficulty — The Waihou Spring Trail is a loop trail that has an option to do an additional out and back hike to the Springs. The loop trail itself is a wonderful walk that could appeal to a wide array of ages and skill levels. In our opinion and experience, the optional offshoot hike to the Springs is the part where there’s the most change in elevation, as you hike down switchbacks about 600 ft. to the stream bed and then back up. This part of the hike is more strenuous and is better for a hiker who is at a moderate skill and athleticism level. This additional trail can also be closed depending on conditions so check for posted signs.
Our Experience — We hiked the whole trail on a dry day during a particularly dry summer so we did not actually see the Springs. But it was still a worthy add-on to the adventure. The moss-covered basin is beautiful and serene. We equally enjoyed the loop trail through the cool forest and found ourselves discussing how nice it would be to return here frequently. We would definitely recommend this hike to anyone who’s looking for a shaded, cool, uncrowded adventure for the whole family.
Don’t Forget To Bring…
Thanks for reading! Hopefully our guide has helped you and we’ll see you on the trail soon enough! Ready for more Maui adventure? Maybe trade in a day of hiking for an afternoon of lounging in the sun at our favorite South Shore beaches!
