Waiheʻe Ridge Trail
Waiheʻe, West Maui
A Popular State-Managed Ridge Hike With Big Valley Views
The Waiheʻe Ridge Trail is a moderate ridge hike on state forest-reserve land above Waiheʻe, managed by DLNR's Division of Forestry and Wildlife. DLNR's older trail map lists 2.5 miles with a roughly 1,500-foot climb; guides put the round trip at about 4 to 5 miles. HAWAIʻI Magazine's 2026 Readers' Choice voters ranked it No. 5 for Maui hiking trails. Several guides list free access with no permit, hours of about 7 AM–7 PM, and limited parking at the trailhead lot.
Current status is unconfirmed: DLNR closed all Maui state parks, forest reserves, and trails around Tropical Storm Nolo in late September 2026 and reopened them only partially, and no post-storm notice for this trail was found. Hiker reports and a March 2026 rescue show it was in use earlier this year.
Why Roamwise recommends this
A rewarding, free hike if it is open — check DLNR before building a day around it.
Best for: a moderate morning hike, valley and ocean views, travelers comfortable on muddy, steep trail.
Insider tip: footing can be slippery after rain, and the lot fills by mid-morning.
- Hazards / conditions:
- Steep, muddy, slippery footing after rain; exposure on the ridge.
- Safety notes:
- State-managed trail — status after the late-September 2026 Nolo closures is unconfirmed. Check DLNR before going.
Reviews: Google MapsYelp
Local tips
- •Reportedly free, no permit, about 7 AM–7 PM — confirm with DLNR.
- •Guides give about 4–5 miles round trip with roughly 1,500+ feet of climb.
- •Muddy and slippery after rain
- •arrive early for parking.
- •Check DLNR for post-Nolo closures before going.
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