LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Opae Kalaole Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Opae Kalaole Falls
Opae Kalaole Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into the Kealia Forest Reserve on Maui, Hawaii. The falls sit within a quiet, forested setting on privately managed land (land unit: Kealia Forest Reserve; manager: PVT; designation: PCON), offering a tranquil spot for photography and a peaceful break from busier coastal viewpoints. The lush vegetation around the stream creates a postcard-ready scene, and the short outing rewards hikers with an intimate waterfall experience rather than a large tourist attraction. The route to the falls is an inviting little adventure for hikers who don’t mind rustic conditions: it’s an out-and-back that covers a modest distance but feels remote. Expect uneven, muddy tread in places, occasional stream crossings and slippery rocks near the water; proper footwear and basic backcountry awareness will make the visit more enjoyable. There is no listed USFS trail number for this route, and access is across privately managed reserve land, so respect signage and stay on established paths where present.
The Setting
Opae Kalaole Falls sits at 640 feet within Kealia Forest Reserve, fed by the Left Branch Opaekaa Str, in the foothills of Hawaii.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Out-and-back, 2.4 miles round trip with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. Trail surface is natural dirt and rock, often uneven and muddy, with sections of slippery rock and one or more stream crossings. Grade is generally moderate with short steeper pitches near the creek. The route is non-technical but can be challenging in wet conditions and may be unmarked in places—sturdy, grippy footwear and care when navigating stream crossings are strongly recommended.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a small, tranquil waterfall surrounded by dense tropical vegetation. The area is peaceful and less crowded compared to other waterfalls along the Hana Highway. However, the trail may be muddy and slippery, especially after rain.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Opae Kalaole Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Opae Kalaole Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The falls can be visited year-round, but the trail may be more accessible during drier months (spring and summer). Avoid visiting after heavy rain due to potential flooding and slippery conditions.
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.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery and muddy, especially after rain. Visitors should be cautious of stream crossings and avoid climbing on wet rocks near the falls. Flash flooding is a potential hazard in this area, so avoid visiting during or immediately after heavy rain.
Current Water Conditions
2 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 66 years of record
0.97 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Left Branch Opaekaa Str nr Kapaa, Kauai, HI (6 km away).
Today
Low
3 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Low
3 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
3 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
3 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
3 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
3 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
3 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, isolated rain showers (trip score 4/10).
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Kapaa hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 156 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 654 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 151 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 158 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face north and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 654 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 156 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Opae Kalaole Falls is located along the Hana Highway (Route 360) on Maui. The exact location is not well-marked, and visitors often rely on GPS or local guides to find the trailhead. The falls are situated near mile marker 19, but access may require navigating unmarked paths.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is limited and typically consists of roadside pull-offs along the Hana Highway. Visitors should exercise caution when parking and ensure their vehicle is not obstructing traffic.
Elevation
640 feet above sea level
Coordinates
22.125432° N, -159.375842° W
Land Management
Managed by PVT
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early in the day to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the hike. Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear and bring insect repellent. Be cautious of slippery rocks and stream crossings.
Where to Stay
One Bedroom Condo in Pono Kai Resort
Kauai Shores Hotel
THE ISO HOTEL, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Hanalei Bay Resort
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls along the Hana Highway, such as Twin Falls and Wailua Falls, as well as the town of Hana and the Pipiwai Trail in Haleakalā National Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to various tropical birds, insects, and native plants. Visitors may also encounter frogs or small fish in the streams.
Cities near Opae Kalaole Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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