Makahiku Falls
Hawaii • Haleakalā National Park • 200 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
800 ft
About Makahiku Falls
Makahiku Falls is a striking 200-foot (61 m) horsetail waterfall tucked in the lush landscape of Haleakalā National Park on the island of Maui. The falls pour from the Ohe'o Gulch stream and are reached via the popular Pipiwai Trail, which is managed as part of Haleakalā National Park by the National Park Service. The cascade sits in a verdant, forested setting and is a highlight for visitors exploring the park’s eastern gulch and stream corridors.
The Setting
Makahiku Falls sits at 217 feet within Haleakalā National Park, in the coastal lowlands of Hawaii. At 200 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Hawaii.
Height: 200 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Waimoku Falls (400 ft) lies 1.0 miles to the northwest. Also nearby: Wailua Falls (80 ft, 1.8 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 4.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 800 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The Pipiwai Trail is an out-and-back route of approximately 4.0 miles round-trip with about 800 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The path is generally well-maintained and notable for its sections of wooden boardwalks and boardwalked crossings through dense vegetation, along with some uneven and rocky stretches. Makahiku Falls is visible from the Pipiwai approach, and the trail continues deeper into the gulch toward Waimoku Falls; the entire route is managed by the National Park Service within Haleakalā National Park.
What to Expect
The falls plunge 200 feet.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Makahiku Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $30.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Makahiku Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Morning hours are ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. The falls are typically more impressive after recent rainfall, but this may make the trail more slippery.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Heavy rains during wet season (November through March) bring higher flow but can make trails slippery. Check with Haleakalā National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery and muddy, especially after rain. Stay on designated paths and avoid getting too close to the edge of overlooks. Flash flooding can occur in the area, so check weather conditions before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
4 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 29 years of record
0.75 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
Know when to go.
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Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Makahiku Falls is located within Haleakalā National Park, near the Kipahulu District. Visitors can access the falls by driving the Hana Highway (Route 360) to the park entrance. The Pipiwai Trailhead is located near the Kīpahulu Visitor Center.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Kīpahulu Visitor Center, but it can fill up quickly during peak hours. A National Park entrance fee is required to park and access the trail.
Elevation
217 feet above sea level
Coordinates
20.665554° N, -156.049891° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven and muddy. Bring insect repellent, water, and snacks. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as rain is common in the area.
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With 4.0 miles and 800 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Maui Kamaole #F-210 Private, Across Kamaole III, Full A/C, Great Location
Heavenly Hana Paradise
Paia Inn
Hana Kai Maui - #106 Kuakahi partial oceanview studio
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Haleakalā National Park (Cabin Permits)
8.0 miles away · 3 sites
Overview Located on the island of Maui, Haleakalā National Park maintains three wilderness cabins for visitor use-- Hōlua, Palikū, and Kapalaoa. All cabins are accessible only by trail from the summit area and require you to hike a minimum of 3.7 mi (5.9 km). Backcountry users must plan to enter the park entrance for their stay no earlier than 7 am unless they have also obtained a sunrise reservation granting access to the park between 3 and 7 am. Sunrise reservations can be made on recreation.go
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Waimoku Falls, the Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools), and the Kīpahulu Visitor Center.
Wildlife
The area is home to native Hawaiian birds, insects, and lush tropical vegetation. Visitors may also encounter non-native species such as feral pigs.
Cities near Makahiku Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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