KAHULUI HIKING FIELD GUIDE
Through Bamboo and Backcountry: Pipiwai Trail to the 400‑Foot Waimoku Falls
An 8–9 hour private hiking day from Kahului that follows the reverse/backside route through Upcountry and Kaupo to the Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls—this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and the key stops en route.
Through Bamboo and Backcountry: Pipiwai Trail to the 400‑Foot Waimoku Falls.
This is a full‑day, private hiking adventure that threads Maui’s varied backcountry—from the rolling ranchlands of Upcountry Kula, past organic farms and historic churches, into the Kipahulu district of Haleakala National Park—culminating on the world‑famous Pipiwai Trail and the thunder of Waimoku Falls as it drops from a 400‑foot cliff.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Backside drive through Upcountry and Kaupo
The tour takes the less‑traveled reverse or “backside” route: a scenic drive through Kula’s rolling hills, past the Ulapalakua area, with photo stops through Kaupo and visits to small cultural and agricultural sites along the way.
Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls
The Pipiwai Trail winds through a famed bamboo forest, passes the Banyan Tree and Makahiku Falls, and finishes at Waimoku Falls—a 400‑foot curtain of water in the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park.
Farms, snacks and a flexible food stop
Stops include a run to Safeway in Kahului for provisions, an organic stop at Laulima Farm to sample local fruit, and a return‑route food destination chosen by the group—food purchases are the responsibility of guests.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Expect a long, purposeful day—8–9 hours in total—marked by a scenic drive, short cultural and agricultural stops, and a focused 3–4 hour hike on the Pipiwai Trail to reach Waimoku Falls. Guides run private, customizable tours and use the reverse/backside approach to the hike, giving you a blend of off‑the‑beaten‑path driving and a concentrated wilderness walk at the end of the route.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this day is best for—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Total tour time is 8–9 hours. Preferred pickup times: West Side/Lahaina at 7:30 AM; Kihei/Wailea at 8:00 AM. Group size is limited to up to 7 guests (6th & 7th guest will have a middle seat).
Bring sturdy shoes, swimwear (optional), a change of clothes and towels if swimming, a phone charger, and cash for stops. The operator provides bottles of water, iced tea and Hawaiian juices.
The tour includes a stop at Safeway early in the day for provisions, visits to local farms and food stops on the return; any food purchases are paid by guests.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the overall tour?
The full experience runs approximately 8–9 hours.
How long is the hike to Waimoku Falls?
The Pipiwai Trail portion to Waimoku Falls is approximately a 3–4 hour hike.
Are food and drinks provided?
Bottled water, iced tea and Hawaiian juices will be provided; other food purchases (for snacks or meals) are the responsibility of guests.
Can everyone in my group skip the hike?
Yes—not everyone in the group is required to complete the entire hike; guests may wait at the visitor center while others finish the 3–4 hour trail.
Is swimming available at any stops?
There is a potential opportunity to swim at Wailua Falls, but swimming is weather and condition dependent.
Is this combined with the full Road to Hana tour?
No—this tour does not combine the entire Road to Hana; the operator recommends purchasing the separate 'Hana & Back Adventure' to explore East Maui further.