Haleakala Ridge Trail

This 1.6 mile trail starts above Polipoli Springs State Park on the skyline switchback at 6,550 feet elevation and works down the crest of the southwest rift of Haleakala past the Plum Trail junction to the lower forest reserve boundary at 5,600 feet elevation. Much of this trail is not forested and there are many spectacular views in all directions.

The trail passes alternately through rough cinders, native scrub brush, grassy swales and planted forest of pines, eucalyptus and other species. Three-tenths of a mile from the top, the trail joins the end of Polipoli Trail leading back to the park. At the 0.7 mile point a short spur trail leads down into a cinder cone at the bottom of which is a cave which has been developed into a trail shelter. At 1.2 miles there is a junction with the Plum Trail which heads north across the mountain slope. After winding through a last stretch of forest, the trail breaks out of the trees onto the crest of the ridge overlooking a beautiful portion of the rift valley and the pastured slopes below. A rustic trail shelter is located near the end of the trail near the forest fence.

Use caution while hiking and wear bright colors so you can easily be spotted by hunters who are off trail.

From Kahului, take Highway 37 past Pukalani to the second junction of Highway 377. Turn left on 377 for about 0.3 mile, then right on Waipoli Road. This becomes Polipoli Access Road at the first cattle guard and climbs up the mountain through a long series of switchbacks until it enters the forest at 6,400` elevation, where the pavement ends. A four-wheel drive car is recommended when driving this road.

Trail Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 1.6 miles one way

Location: Haleakala Ridge Trail is located in the Upcountry Maui and Haleakala Region

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