The Pipiwai Trails is one of the most popular hiking trails in South East Maui. You will walk 2 miles to the end of the trail, then turn around, and head back. Yes, that may sound redundant, however, you will notice things on the way back that you did not on the way in and if you do not pay attention, you may even get a bit confused.
You will find the Pipiwai Falls above the Seven Sacred Pool with the trailhead at close by mile marker 42 at ‘Ohe’o Bridge. Mosquito repellant will nice for this hike especially if you venture off the main path. As you start the hike, you will notice a concrete derrick that has a pulley attached to the top. This was a very important part of the sugar industry when it was in full force. It was used to haul the sugar cane across the gorge. When you have hiked about 2/3 of a mile you will love, the Hakahiku Falls overlook if you do not mind the idea that the falls drops 200 feet. The sight is really awesome unless you feel a bit queasy with heights.
If you are adventurous then you are in luck. Just a little bit ahead, you will find a nice place to leave the main path, remember the mosquito repellant. You will notice a side trail that is not used much and he is where you adventure begins. This is where the Infinity Pool is hiding. This beautiful pool is sitting atop a 200-foot waterfall and is more beautiful than anything you can imagine on the mainland. It has a row of rocks or boulders to the right that keeps large objects such as yourself from flowing over the fall during the natural flow of the fall. Remember, this when you are swimming. Do not get to close to the edge, even with protection.
Another thing to remember is that flash flooding can occur in any of the pools. You should always be careful even if the water level is low, it can rise very quickly.
Behind the Infinity Pool, you will find another secret area. Just go a bit past the bend in the stream, over the rockface on the right side, then swim across the pool, and climb over another rock face and you will see a nice waterfall that is always flowing during any season even with the Infinity Pool is low. This would be a great place to take some pictures and just relax away from it all.
When you decide to make it back to the main path, you will walk through a gate and then find a confusing intersection. If you do not pay close attention, on your way back this is where you will be confused. Those old looking trees you keep seeing are banyan trees. These trees are prominent here and are great for photos.
Once again, you can take a side trail after you pass by the banyan trees to find another waterfall. Just follow the rock steps on the right hand side to get an awesome view of the fall and a very large pool that is at least the length of a football field.
To find your way to the Waimoku Falls you will need to wind your way through a bamboo forest and to the end of the trail. What better way to end the trail than will a beautiful fall flowing down the 400 feet lava wall. Some people may walk under the waterfall, but remember one thing any object coming off the top of the fall may feel very hard if it hits you. During the summer months, the water might not be quite as dramatic.
Add this article to your favorite social bookmarks.
