Iao Valley State Park
Iao Valley State Park is a lush, scenic destination in Central Maui, famous for the iconic Iao Needle - a 2,250-foot-tall natural rock pinnacle surrounded by rainforest. This valley is steeped in cultural and historical importance, being the site of the 1790 Battle of Kepaniwai. With hiking trails, ridge lookouts, and nearby educational exhibits, Iao Valley offers a unique blend of natural beauty, ancient legend, and Hawaiian heritage. It's one of the most visited and photogenic spots on the island.
Iao Valley State Park, Maui
The Iao Valley State Park, located near Wailuku in Central Maui, is one of the most popular attractions on the island. A famous landmark inside the park is the Iao Needle, a 2,250-foot-tall (685 m) stone pillar, a remnant of Maui’s volcanic past. It overlooks Iao Stream and is surrounded by the walls of Puu Kukui Crater.
The scenery is very lush and the Iao Needle itself is covered in green. Iao Valley is the second wettest spot in Hawaii, after Mt. Waialeale on Kauai, receiving more than 400 inches (10,000 mm) or rain per year.
Besides its natural beauty, the valley is historically significant because it was here in 1790 that King Kamehameha I destroyed the Maui army in the Battle of Kepaniwai to unite the Hawaiian Islands.
There is a well-marked hiking path from the parking area to view Iao Needle. There’s also a ridge-top lookout from where you can enjoy great views of the valley, its exotic plants and natural pools and see all the way to Kahului Harbor.
Iao Needle is often times covered in clouds. The best time to go is early in the morning. While there, you can also visit the Hawaii Nature Center, which features interactive exhibits and is located within the valley. There are restroom facilities but no drinking water so bring some on your journey. Park hours are from 7 am to 6 pm.
Key Features of Iao Valley State Park
- Iao Needle landmark: A striking 2,250-foot stone spire and one of Maui's most iconic natural features.
- Historic battle site: Location of the 1790 Battle of Kepaniwai, where King Kamehameha I defeated the Maui army.
- Scenic hiking trails: Easy trails lead to lookout points, natural pools, and lush rainforest views.
- Hawaii Nature Center: Offers interactive exhibits on Hawaiian ecology and cultural history within the valley.
- Second wettest spot in Hawaii: Receives over 400 inches of rain per year, creating vibrant, green surroundings year-round.
| |||||||
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Iao Needle?
It's a 2,250-foot-tall lava rock formation covered in vegetation, formed by erosion and surrounded by a lush rainforest valley.
Why is Iao Valley historically important?
It was the site of the 1790 Battle of Kepaniwai, where King Kamehameha I fought to unify the Hawaiian Islands.
Are there hiking trails at Iao Valley State Park?
Yes, there are well-maintained walking paths to scenic lookout points and the base of the Iao Needle.
What are the park hours?
Iao Valley State Park is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Plan to arrive early to avoid clouds covering the needle.