Iao Needle State Trails - Wailuku, Hawaii

Jennifer Wilson

Beautiful! Nice short trail (but lots of stairs!) goes to a lookout of the Iao Needle. There is also a covered seating area at the top to rest in the shade. The trail continues down through a garden and also along a stream where my little ones could splash around for a bit. Would rate easy to moderate depending on stair climbing ability.

Aishwarya Mahulikar

Lush green tropical rainforest! We were amazed by the change in landscape as we were driving through a dry area and then Iao valley area suddenly surprises you with all the greenery making it much cooler in temperature. There is also a creek and we were able to get down there for a quick dip. Beautiful place! We had a lot of fun exploring.

Shuai Yin

We came yesterday 10 before cut-off time 6pm (Mid Feb), last min stop by, didnt come prepared with reservations. Thankfully Michelle and Tye (might have mis-spelled it) was so kind to let us in first and purchase the entry pass the following day, thanks to them both for making our day that day and saved us another trip!

The monument was scenic and beautiful, amazing creations of the mountains, valleys, streams, plantations and lots to see there with a paved, easy hike up and down, if you want you can go off-trail a bit to have access to the stream.

Well worth stopping by there!

P.S. And it's family friendly, I have a 8 mo baby in my carrier, which was totally manageable.

Doug Ho

Iao Valley State Park
Towering emerald peaks guard the lush valley floor of ʻĪao Valley State Park. Located in Central Maui just west of Wailuku, this peaceful 4,000-acre, 10-mile long park is home to one of Maui's most recognizable landmarks, the 1,200-foot ʻĪao Needle. This iconic green-mantled rock outcropping overlooks ʻĪao stream and is an ideal attraction for easy hiking and sightseeing.
Aside from its natural tropical beauty, sacred ʻĪao Valley has great historical significance. It was here in 1790 at the Battle of Kepaniwai that King Kamehameha I clashed with Maui's army in his quest to unite the islands. Even with ʻĪao Needle serving as a lookout point, Kamehameha defeated Maui's forces in a ferocious battle that ultimately changed the course of Hawaiian history.

The Iao Needle Monument:
The Iao Valley state park is located on 6.2 acres (2.5 ha) at the end of ʻĪao Valley Road (Highway 32). The ʻĪao Needle (Kūkaʻemoku), a landmark in the state park, is a vegetation-covered lava remnant rising 1,200 feet (370 m) from the valley floor or 2,250 feet (690 m) above sea level. The "needle" is a sharp ridge that gives the appearance of being a spire when viewed end-on. The needle is an extension of and surrounded by the cliffs of the West Maui Mountains, an extinct volcano. There is a short trail (ʻĪao Needle Lookout Trail and Ethnobotanical Loop) to a windy overlook.

Tobi West

Amazing views, easy climb, nice place to go for relaxation and a totally different perspective on the island of Maui. Feels like Jurassic Park without the dinosaurs.

David Ciochetty

More impressive than anticipated. Multiple stairs, but the walking trails are short (less than 0.6 miles)

Shane Perry

Iao Needle State Trails offer a mesmerizing journey through lush landscapes with easy-to-navigate paths leading to the iconic Iao Needle viewpoint. The trail is brief yet rewarding with stunning panoramas of the valley and river.

A must-visit for a quick, nature-filled escape that showcases the verdant beauty of Maui. Prepare for steps but enjoy the ease of access and well-maintained facilities. Ideal for a peaceful retreat into nature with historical insights along the way.

Kristin D

My husband and I drove up here after making reservations online, which was a straightforward process. I thought $20 for parking and entrance for 2 people was a little high, considering it’s about a 1/2 hour visit, tops. But it was interesting reading the history of the area and an easy, pleasant hike. Gorgeous views, such lush greenery. Cooler at this elevation, glad we brought jackets.