Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools)

Oheo Gulch, often referred to as the Seven Sacred Pools, is a scenic stream valley located in the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park on Maui's remote eastern coast. Known for its cascading waterfalls, lush jungle trails, and tiered pools, this area draws nature lovers and hikers alike. Though swimming is currently prohibited due to safety concerns, the Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls remains a highlight. The gulch offers a peaceful contrast to Maui's busier beaches and showcases the island's wild, untamed beauty.

Oheo Gulch, Maui

Looking to spend a few hours away from the lively beaches of Maui? Head to the southeast coast and discover the peaceful Oheo Gulch, part of the Haleakala National Park on the slopes of Maui's famed volcano. Also known as the Seven Sacred Pools, this sprawling park is home to streams, majestic waterfalls and an amazing display of Hawaiian flora.

The name Seven Sacred Pools is actually a misnomer - there are dozens of pools in the gulch, each one fed by a series of waterfalls and draining into the ocean nearby. A large stream runs through the area and is crossed by an open bridge, through which visitors can pass to explore the other side. Once you cross over the stream, the parking area is on the ocean side. There is a $30 parking fee that grants access to both the Haleakala National Park (the road that leads to the summit) and the Kipahulu District, where Oheo Gulch is located.

About 2 miles (3.2 km) inland, you will find the two streams that feed all the waterfalls in the area. The Pipiwai and Palikea Streams merge in the distance to create the pools that give the place its name. Over the years many people have enjoyed swimming in the pools, but currently the stream and pools are closed for swimming until further notice due to the theft of stream monitoring equipment. Furthermore, swimming is not recommended in this area (even if the stream is eventually reopened) due to the danger of violent flash floods. In the past, very strong flash floods have occurred in the area and people have been swept into the ocean and drowned.

The gulch is surrounded by a series of trails known as the Kipahulu Area trails. The most popular is the Pipiwai Trail, which lies 650 feet (198 m) above the gulch and spans 2 miles (3.2 km) each way. It's an exhausting 2.5-hour hike, but well worth it. Along the way, you'll see great waterfalls, lookout points and a wide expanse of greenery and blue skies. The trail ends at the 400-ft (122 m) Waimoku Falls, which falls down a sheer wall of lava rock and makes a truly magnificent picture.

Key Features of Oheo Gulch

• Series of natural pools: Fed by Pipiwai and Palikea Streams, the pools cascade toward the ocean.
• Misnamed “Seven Sacred Pools”: In reality, there are many more than seven pools in this lush gulch.
• Part of Haleakala National Park: Located in the Kipahulu District, admission also grants access to the summit area.
• Pipiwai Trail: A 4-mile roundtrip hike through bamboo forests to 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
• Currently no swimming: The pools are closed due to safety risks, including flash flooding and equipment vandalism.