Waimoku Falls

Waimoku Falls is a 400-foot waterfall at the end of Maui's Pipiwai Trail in Haleakala National Park's Kipahulu District.

View overview Plan Your Visit
Waimoku Falls

Waimoku Falls, Maui

Waimoku Falls is one of Maui's tallest waterfalls, dropping 400 feet (122 m) down a vertical cliff into a shallow pool. It is accessible via the 1.8-mile (2.9 km) Pipiwai Trail, which begins near the Oheo Gulch (also known as Seven Sacred Pools). Along the way about half a mile (800 m) into the trail, there is another waterfall, Makahiku Falls, which is also beautiful, even though it is "only" a 185-foot (56 m) cascade.

Swimming in the small pool below Waimoku Falls is not possible since it is too shallow. Also, it is dangerous to stand right under the waterfall because of the danger of falling rocks and debris. The amount of water gushing down the waterfall depends on recent weather conditions. If it has rained, the waterfall is much larger than during dry weather.

The Pipiwai Trail is one of the best hikes on the island. It leads along the Pipiwai Stream and passes through a beautiful bamboo forest and lush vegetation, including ferns, mango, guava and banyan trees.

CAUTION: As with all freshwater streams and waterfalls in Hawaii, Leptospirosis bacteria may be present in the water. Do not drink the water and keep water out of open wounds (including small scratches) and eyes. Also, beware of rockfalls in this area. In 2011 a rockfall killed an eight-year-old girl near this waterfall.

Key Features

Pipiwai Trail hike: Reached from Haleakala National Park
400-foot waterfall: Tall cliff drop in Kipahulu District
Bamboo forest: Famous boardwalk section along the trail
Makahiku Falls: Scenic waterfall viewpoint along the route
National park entry: Entrance fee or valid pass required
Muddy trail: Rain can make footing slick and uneven
Rockfall risk: Stay away from cliff walls and the base
Flash-flood caution: Avoid hiking during heavy rain
Visitor prep: Bring water, shoes, rain gear and daylight

Daily Activity Picks

Featured Maui Activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Waimoku Falls located?

Waimoku Falls is located in Haleakala National Park's Kipahulu District on Maui, reached by hiking the Pipiwai Trail.

How tall is Waimoku Falls?

Waimoku Falls is commonly described as a 400-foot waterfall dropping down a tall cliff at the end of the Pipiwai Trail.

How do visitors reach Waimoku Falls?

Visitors reach Waimoku Falls by hiking the Pipiwai Trail from the Kipahulu District near mile marker 42 on Hana Highway.

Can visitors swim at Waimoku Falls?

No. Swimming is not the focus here, and visitors should stay back from the base because of rockfall, shallow water and changing stream conditions.

Is the Pipiwai Trail safe after rain?

Rain can make the trail muddy and streams dangerous. Avoid hiking during heavy rain, high stream flow or flash-flood warnings.