Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools)

Description

This popular Hana area attraction is part of the Haleakala National Park unit on Maui that stretches from the summit of Mt. Haleakala to the ocean in the Kipahulu district. There are very well maintained hiking trails that are some of the best on Maui for safety and piece of mind due to the Park Rangers and their monitoring of stream conditions and hazards. If heading to the Hana area of Maui, this is your best East side hike and it is easy to find.

At a Glance:
Highlights: An easy to find and popular hiking location with well developed and maintained National Park trails out in Kipahulu area near Hana. Waterfalls galore!
Location: Route 360 in Kipahulu 9 miles outside of Hana town.
Activity Level:  Moderate to strenuous depending on your trail choice.
Equipment: Sturdy shoes, rain gear, water and food.
Warnings!: Follow all posted warnings within park grounds.
Reservations: None needed.
Cost: $10 entry fee per vehicle is good for 7 days admission to the park and summit.

This is a popular destination for day-trippers to Hana. A majority of the pedestrian traffic is focused among the set of pools a the stream mouth, the connecting trails, and the visitors center. Once you cross the road to the upper trails your adventure becomes less populated.

Where to Start:
All trails begin from the parking area near the entry gate. A map given to you upon entry to the park will provide you an overview. The visitors center is a great place to ask questions regarding the hikes.

The stunning 400 foot "Waimoku Falls" is at the end of an uphill trail known by the name "Pipiwai". The hike takes you through multiple climate zones,  including 2 bridges that span the stream and a boardwalk through a bamboo forest that stretches for a mile. There are several other waterfall views throughout the hike, that are equally stunning, without having to go the full 2 miles to reach the top.  The 200 foot Makahiku Falls is visible from the first scenic stop along the Pipiwai Trail.

The ocean mouth and stream junction is the location of the most waterfalls and pools, the hike is short and the views incredible.  The pools and stream access is closely monitored and will be closed for public access when flooding is occurring.

Directions:

Route 360 in Kipahulu, outside the town of Hana. From Hana head southwest on Route 360 for 9 miles and look for signage on left side of roadway.
Mile marker 42 on Route 31.

Contact the Park:
Phone: 808-572-4400
National Park website: http://www.nps.gov/hale/planyourvisit/kipahulu.htm

Map

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