We are staying at the Ritz Carlton Maui in 1 week. We'd like to drive from their around the northwest to hike at trail at Waihee. Is that the best way to drive? How long will it take? Or is it better to drive south and cut across the island?

Thanks!

The west end drive is one of our all time favorites. We do it at least once everytime we are on island. That said, it is not for the faint of heart and one must proceed with extreme caution, since at a number of turns on the one lane road you must take care to find a turnoff for oncoming cars to pass. If you keep a keen eye on on approaching cars and buses, and pull over, you will be fine. It is really beautiful country and you will be on the the inside rather then hugging a cliff drop. I'd take the central highway back. And there is a great little giftshop and fresh pineapples and flowers along the way.

is the trailhead at waihee easy to find?

I have not been there.

But I did drive the road around the top of West Maui clockwise. I agree with everything Kealalani said. I don't know if I would have liked driving it counterclockwise.

Some links (note that the first link gives directions from Wailuku). Just note the mile markers if you go clockwise.

http://www.hawaii-guide.com/index.ph...e_ridge_trail/

http://hawaiitrails.ehawaii.gov/trai...01&island=Maui

I've never done that hike. Actually I've only done the loop twice. Once to visit I'o Needle and another because we had plans in central Maui. We usually turn around once we hit civilization or the gift shop on the hill and head back, but then I am a trained proactive assertive driver from Boston!

For a casual stroll, there is a recently groomed path that was recently made along the way that is a lovely stop to stretch the legs and enjoy the vista. I don't recall the name, but it is obvious. with a turnout. Also take time to visit the cliff over Honolua bay to watch worldclass surfing when the surf is up, and then do some snorkling down the road in the bay.