When you are visiting Maui and you hear people referring to the upcountry they are talking about the towns that are 2,000 to 4,000 feet high found on the slope of Haleakala. Haleakala Highway is term used for the three different highways that can get up this 10,000 foot mountain which are Highway 37 to 377 and then to 378. As you climb, you will notice about a 3-degree drop in temperature for every 1,000 feet.
If you wish to take, a different route to see two unique towns you should venture up Highway 36 to Haiku. Here you will see a quiet, secluded town where you can enjoy a trip to the marketplace or just enjoy the view. From here, you should drive up Highway 36 to Ulumalu and head toward Makawao. This is what mainlanders would call the town of the cowboys; however, do not expect to see any cowboys. While you are here, you should visit the Rodeo General Store and let your taste buds experience the island coconut flavored gourmet kosher Maui grown coffee. Walk around town and check out the unique eateries or take a stroll through an art gallery. You are sure to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and hospitality of the town folk. Here you can enjoy treats at the Komoda Bakery, Hi Hearth and Leisure, Kitada’s.
If you do happen to run into a cowboy or two do not expect to hear the lingo you hear in old westerns. You are more likely to hear such phrases as Hemo Kapuka meaning open the gate, lio meaning horse, pip meaning cattle, oni meaning let’s move out, and Waha meaning yeehaa.
After you leave Makawao, you can get back on Highway 36 or 377 and find Kula, which is considered everything past Pukalani, which has the golf course. Not to visitors think Kula is the best choice for attractions, however, if you do not take the time to stop and at least check out the view of the valley below you will miss one of the most gorgeous spots in the upcountry area. Along with beauty, Kula has many unique restaurants and other attractions for you and your family to enjoy. The most popular include the Kula Lodge, the Kula Botanical Garden, the Enchanting Floral Gardens, the Sunrise Market and Protea Farm, the Polipoli State Park, the Ali’i Kula Lavender Garden, the Sun Yat-sen Park, and the Tedeschi Winery.
The Kula Lodge may not have much in the way of attractions however; it does have a nice restaurant and wonderful views. The Botanical Garden on Highway 377 between mile marker 8 and 9 is 6 acres of tropical fauna and flora. The Enchanting Floral Gardens is just up the road a bit farther at mile marker 10 and both are only $ 5 to visit. At the Sunrise Market on Highway 378 you can enjoy finding an assortment of proteas, snacks, and a few gifts to take back home. On Waipoli Road, you will find a great hiking adventure at Polipoli State Park along with the Ali’i Kula Lavender Garden. At the Lavender Garden, you will find all kinds of unique items made using lavender such as sherbet, scones, lavender chocolates, coffee, lotions, lemonade, candles, and much more. The tour will cost $ 10 and will take about an hour, so be sure to give yourself time to enjoy this attraction before leaving the area.
The last two attractions before you make it to Haleakala National Park are Kun Yat-sen Park, which is located on Highway 37, just up from mile marker 18, and Tedeschi Winery.
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