The Waihee Ridge Trail is known as one of the best hikes on Maui! We discovered this epic hike when we were searching for something that would take us up into Maui’s beautiful mountains. From how to get the prized parking spot to what to pack and tips for the trail, we’ve got all you need to know. So if you’re looking for an epic hike in paradise, then join us on the Maui Ridge Trail!
Waihee Ridge Trail Maui Guide
Location: Kahekili Hwy, Wailuku, HI, 96793
Park Hours: Gates Open 7am-7pm Daily
Distance: 4.5 Miles Round Trip (From Upper Parking Lot)
Time Needed: 3 Hours with Rests and Photo Stops
Difficulty: Advanced – Steep with Slippery Trails After Rain
Waihee Ridge Trail Parking
There is one very important thing to know before starting the Maui Ridge Trail hike! The parking here can be a little tricky.
There are two lots available, but it depends on what time you get there that determines your spot. The best place to park is the main upper lot at the start of the trail. There is also a lower lot about one mile down the winding road from the trailhead.
Upper and Lower Lots
We arrived when the gates opened at 7:00am and there was ALREADY a line of 10+ cars waiting to get in. By the time we parked our car and started the hike, the lot was almost completely full.
To avoid any parking issues we strongly urge you to get there right when the gates open at 7am. If there are no spots in the upper parking lot, be ready for a steep climb uphill.
The hike is one mile up the paved road and adds quite a bit of time to your day. We always use this website to check the current prices and compare car rental companies. Also, be sure to check out our top things to know for renting a car on Maui before your visit.
Starting the Waihee Ridge Trail
Okay, you’ve made it to the start! The Waihee Ridge Trail begins with a steep climb, which will be a preview of the elevation you’re about to see.
While the entire hike isn’t very long, it is pretty difficult. You’ll hike through a beautiful forest that leads out onto the ridge of the Maui mountain.
In addition to getting a parking spot, you should plan to start the trail as early as possible to avoid the heat of the afternoon. Also, the weather in the mountains can be so unpredictable and clouds will roll in and out. Don’t give up if you don’t have a clear view right away!
Looking for more hikes on the island? Check out more of the Best Hikes on Maui. Some of our favorite include the Pipiwai Trail, Hoapili Trail, Wailea Beach Walk, & Kapalua Coastal Trail.
Hiking the Maui Waihee Ridge Trail
Even with the incredible summit and beginning, the middle section of the trail was hands down our favorite. The views are amazing as you see the ocean and deep valleys from both sides of the Waihee Ridge Trail.
Take your time with the climb and get all the photos you can! This is not a hike to wait for “the way back down” to enjoy the view. The weather can change so fast that it may be completely clear on top, yet covered in clouds on the return.
We may have not had a sunny and clear Maui day ourselves. Yet, watching the clouds change as we hiked the Waihee Ridge Trail was spectacular, and made our whole experience so unique.
Final Climb into the Clouds
By the time you get towards the peak, you’ll already be feeling the burn! As we mentioned, the trail is steep and quite challenging.
It’s a mixture of dirt paths and man-made wooden stairs that flow steadily up the ridge. After the 2.5+ mile incline, you will surely have earned a break.
When we reached the top of the trail the clouds had almost completely covered the view. Also, the trail was quite muddy and slippery at the peak so watch your step. We grabbed a seat and ate a snack as the view transformed before us, and the ocean slowly peaked out.
Back Down the Waihee Ridge Trail
The Waihee Ridge Trail Maui is an in-and-out hike, meaning that you will be returning the same way you came. About halfway down, we noticed a huge increase in people heading up the trail.
It’s easy to see why the hike is so popular. This is just another reason to start early!
We completed the hike in about 2.5 hours, but saw people doing it much faster. We definitely took our time and made lots of photo stops on the Maui Ridge Trail.
This hike is so gorgeous and it isn’t one you want to rush. Plan for at least three hours on the trail when starting from the upper lot.
Have any questions about the Maui Waihee Ridge Trail or want to share your own favorite hike in Hawaii? Let us know in the comments below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
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We’re Brigitte and Jake! American travel bloggers currently based in Spain. If you can believe it, we started Nothing Familiar way back in 2015 on an Ipad in the Ecuadorian jungle. Ever since, we haven’t stopped traveling! We’ve now been to over 60 countries around the world, with our expertise being Europe and Southeast Asia. We love outdoor adventures, tasting local specialties, and island hopping through tropical destinations. Hopefully, our guides and authentic experiences will inspire you on your own travels!
Not avid hikers, my wife and I are (at 65 and 74, respectively) avid walkers: we frequently walk 2-4 miles in residential areas. So, several questions: we don’t own backpacks-where in Kihei area would you recommend we purchase some and what exactly; what gear, food and water would you take in the backpacks; should we wear our normal jogging shoes or hiking shoes; is there a charge at the parking areas for the trails?
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Hi Fred and Jan,
Thanks for reaching out. To start out, we should probably say the trail is very steep. There are plenty of other amazing hikes and coastal paths that might be more enjoyable for you. If you plan to do the Waihee Ridge Trail definitely wear hiking shoes, bring plenty of snacks and water, and prepare for a steep climb!
We brought 2 big water bottles, a bunch of fruit from the farm stands, and sandwiches which we ate at the top with a view. There is no charge to park but as the article says, if you’re not at the top lot when it opens at 7am you’ll to park at the bottom and hike an extra hour each way.
Sorry but we’re not sure where to buy a backpack. However, in the main town of Kahului, there’s a Target and Walmart which should have anything you need. Hope this helps! Here are a few more trails to check out while you’re on Maui:
https://www.nothingfamiliar.com/best-hikes-on-maui-hawaii/