My sister and I will be traveling to Maui soon and are wondering if the road to Hana by the back way [counterclockwise] is recommended. We don't want to chance it if the road is in such bad condition that we may become stuck. Obviously, if it has rained recently we would not attempt it, but otherwise is the road in good enough condition that we should not have any problems?

It's ok - but actually nothing much to look at. Most rental car agencies 'disclaim' you if anything happens back there so you're on your own (at least in 2001 they did)

We went the back way on our way back from Hana in March of 2003. It was fine, no big deal. You read everywhere that it can be dangerous, but it wasn't at all. I guess it is a good thing because the road is VERY, VERY, VERY empty. As for the scenery, we found it amazing. Some of the views of Haleakala and the ocean are amazing. It is also cool because it is such a stark contrast of what you just saw a couple of hours ago on the other side. We had a low riding vehicle (sebring covertible) - NO Problems - Don't Sweat it and have fun!

Thanks everyone for your responses. I failed to mention that we did the "first half" of the road to Hana two years ago, but had to turn around because we had reservations at Mamma's House. As we have seen that part, we wanted to have plenty of time to experience the "other end". Guess it's a GO.....thanks again.

I personally found it to be very boring and a big waste of precious time in Paradise.