Polipoli Spring State Recreational Area (Polipoli State Park), Maui
Polipoli Spring State Recreational Area is a remote alpine forest park perched on the upper slopes of Haleakala in Kula, Maui. Accessible only by 4-wheel-drive vehicles, this high-elevation retreat offers a cool, misty climate and a network of scenic hiking trails through redwood and eucalyptus forests. It's part of the Kula Forest Reserve and is popular with hikers, mountain bikers, hunters, and those seeking a quiet escape in nature. Camping and rustic cabin lodging are available with advance reservations.
Located almost 10 miles (16 km) upland from the residential areas of the Kula district of Maui, you will need a four-wheel drive vehicle just to access this mountain hideaway. However, the drive itself, whilst not for the faint-hearted, features beautiful scenery.
Polipoli Spring State Recreational Area has four hiking trails: Plum Trail, Haleakala Ridge Trail, Polipoli Trail and the Redwood Trail. Only the Plum Trail doesn't begin from the recreational area itself, and all four trails eventually link to form a loop of 3.5 miles (5.6 km).
Stunning scenery accompanies hikers on whichever of the routes they choose. All four trails sit at around 6,000 feet (1,829 m) above sea level and lead through a variety of forests. Pines, eucalyptus, cypress, cedars, ash, redwood and sugi trees are all visible from the trails. Plum trees bearing delicious fruit can also be found along the Plum Trail.
Of the four, it is the Redwood Trail which has the greatest elevation gain; it begins from the high point of 6,200 feet (1,890 m) at the recreational area and drops 900 feet (274 m) through the course of the walk. The Redwood Trail is the only one of the four which permits access to mountain bikers. The others are strictly for hikers only, and all four are considered to be of moderate difficulty.
Polipoli Spring State Recreational Area also provides camping and lodging facilities (one lodge is available). Picnic tables and restrooms are provided in various parts of the park. In season, pig and bird hunting is also possible.
Due to the elevation, nights can get cold at Polipoli Spring State Recreational Area. Also, the lodging facilities do not have electricity. Flashlights are a must as candles are not permitted.
Key Features of Polipoli Spring State Recreational Area
- Four main trails: Redwood Trail, Polipoli Trail, Plum Trail, and Haleakala Ridge Trail form a 3.5-mile loop through mixed forests.
- High-elevation landscape: Ranges from 5,300 to 6,200 feet above sea level, offering cooler temperatures and alpine vegetation.
- Rustic overnight stay: One cabin is available through the Hawaii Division of State Parks (no electricity; bring flashlights).
- Unique tree species: Hike through groves of redwood, ash, sugi, plum, and cypress trees - unusual for a tropical island.
- Backcountry recreation: Activities include hiking, mountain biking (Redwood Trail only), and seasonal hunting with permits.
Frequently Asked QuestionsDo I need a 4WD vehicle to get to Polipoli?Yes. Access roads are unpaved and steep. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended to reach the park safely. What are the best trails in the area?The Redwood Trail is popular for its elevation change and forest scenery. The Plum Trail features fruiting trees during season, and all trails connect to form a loop. Can I camp or stay overnight?Yes. A cabin can be reserved through Hawaii State Parks. There are also designated campsites. Note: no electricity - bring flashlights, not candles. Where is Polipoli located?About 9.7 miles upland from Kula via Waipoli Road, off Highway 377. It is located on the western slope of Haleakala. |