I have taken the Road to Hana and returned the same way without going on around and seeing the sights past Hana. This trip to Maui, I would love to do the Pipiwai Trail. What about traveling to the trailhead from Kihei going "the back way" and not do the Road to Hana this time? Has anyone done this?

I don't see why not... we did the Pipiwai Trail about a week ago. Loved it! Enjoyed the bamboo forest and the waterfall at the end was breathtaking. Very muddy, tricky at times crossing the stream...but all in all lots of fun. One of the most memorable things we did this time on Maui.

Stop at Grandma's just a few miles past the winery for yummy baked goods.

Aloha!

The "back" road is bumpier than we expected. It is all paved except for about 5 miles shortly before you get to the trail, but a few miles after the Tedeschi Winery (which has a really good deli/general store, by the way) the pavement gets patchy, and you will vibrate for about 20 miles.

The Pipiwai is great! Watch for cows near the banyan tree.

Oh yes. It is quite bumpy (but certainly doable) and the change in scenery is amazing. I would only wonder if I'd want to drive that stretch twice.

crazy4Hawaii- have you made a decision? when is your trip? I haven't done a full maui trip report yet...but would be happy to share with you my pics from the Pipiwai.

The major focus of our trip this year will be the Big Island with a little 3 day respite in Maui before heading home. We've explored Maui much more thoroughly in the past. My family has begged me to give up on the Pipiwai notion this trip as I've got them "scheduled" to do a lot of hiking on the Big Island... I'd love to see your beautiful pictures!

I think that is a good idea! May use it myself one day so as to be able to check out the winery as well. We were too late (it was closed) when we did the whole circle.

crazy4hawaii-send me an email at [email protected] and I'll give you the link to my pics.