We got an early start for one of my favorite days of the trip. The Road to Hana is a series of narrow roads and lots of twists and turns, but has some of the best scenery on the island. It was a pretty rainy morning, which actually was a blessing because traffic was light and the waterfalls were roaring.
Maui Revealed led us to this banana bread stand in Ke'anae several years ago and it is a must stop on the Road to Hana. We got several loaves of warm bread to share
and enjoyed the time out of the car.
Just a short drive down the road is this very old church
with the great view of the lava rock along the coastline.
We had fun walking through the tide pools before getting back in the car.
Along the way, we stopped at several waterfalls.
Waikani Falls (aka The 3 Bears)
Once in Hana, we stumbled on this new Hana Ranch Food Truck. It is a working cattle ranch and organic farm and we were drawn to the horses!
We bought some alfalfa blocks and were able to draw the horses over to us. The kids loved it!
Our main reason for doing the long drive today was to hike the Pipiwai Trail. It was Matt's #1 priority and noted as the best hike on the island. It did not disappoint!
The hike has amazing greenery, cool bridges,
the sounds of the water running alongside us, small waterfalls,
challenging inclines,
unique trees and muddy ground.
walking through streams
and the raging, 400 foot Waimoku Falls! It was absolutely beautiful! Our crew was disappointed that they couldn't swim under it because of the heavy rains, but it was breathtaking nonetheless and the perfect way to end the trail.
After completing the hike, we also walked the 1/2 mile loop to tour the Seven Sacred Pools…again too fast moving to swim in, but still a gorgeous site and well worth the all day drive!
We followed Maui Revealed's recommendation for one more short hike to Alelele Falls on our way home.
We had such a fun time exploring today!
We took the road along the backside of the island back to Kahana. The landscape is much drier and less traveled than the Road to Hana, but isn't encouraged by the rental car companies.
It winds up through the Upcountry area of Maui and we made one last stop at Maui Winery for a bathroom stop and ice cream break.
Morgen spotted this cute chameleon and it was the perfect end to one heck of a day!
