– A photo I took on the trail in Wai’anapanapa State Park.

For some reason there is a strong Central Oregon/Maui connection. I’m not positive why that is but I’m guessing it has to do with the adventures and lifestyle that both provide. The Hawaiian island of Maui has numerous great hiking trails like Bend. Here are a few of my favorites.
• Seven sacred pools (Loop – Hana) – Maybe the most well known hike in Maui, the pools themselves are truly amazing. One of the prettier places you’ll ever see. Don’t expect to have the trail to yourself, this is a VERY popular place, but well worth checking out.
• Swinging bridges (Out and back – Waihee) – This is a really nice hike on “the other side of the island.” Worth doing for several reasons, one of which is that you may spend a lot of time in Maui and never go to Waihee unless you have this hike as a destination. Another reason is for the nice swimming hole @ the end of the hike.
• Iao valley (Out and back – Wailuku) – This is a hike I made several times and every time was different because you have so many trail options. This hike is a must because of the view you get of the valley all the way to the ocean, truly amazing.
• Wai’anapanapa State Park (Out and back – Hana) – This is my favorite hike by far! First is the fact that I’ve done it twice and never seen another person on the trail (once you get outside of the camping area) second is because it follows the most beautiful shore line and you get to have the ocean right next to you the whole way and third because the volcanic lava rock that forms the shoreline makes for the coolest crashing waves I’ve ever seen.

For great info on all-things Maui, checkout the book “Maui Revealed.” It’s no doubt the best book about Maui, everything from activities to where to stay to where to eat… and where not to eat! A must if you are headed to Maui.