Hey there! Welcome to my blog on the incredible Waihee Ridge Trail of Maui, Hawaii. My name is Shelby Hicks. I grew up in Chapel Hill, North Carolina where I somewhat devoted my childhood to competitive soccer. Through my soccer career, I was able to travel to some amazing places like South Africa and England which sparked my travel bug!
After playing collegiately at UNCC, I decided to take some time off to travel after graduation. I traveled for six months straight out of a backpack – starting in Peru, passing through Hawaii, Bali, Japan and Europe.
Recently, I visited Maui to attend my friend/boss’s wedding. I write for her travel blog JetsetChristina.com. She was getting married at the Four Seasons and my fiance and I wanted to get there early to go exploring.
We rented a Jeep with a tent on top and spent four nights driving all over the island. We did the Road to Hana, Haleakala National Park, Lahaina and the Nakalele Blowhole. I had been researching hikes to do on Maui and kept seeing Waihee Ridge pop up – the views looked incredible and so we had to give it a shot. After hiking the trail, it blew our minds!
Hiking the Epic Waihee Ridge Trail
Waihee Ridge Trail is a beautiful out-and-back hike starting in a parking lot off the Maluhia Highway in Maui, Hawaii. The hike is around two miles each way. The terrain can get quite steep and challenging. As advanced hikers it took us around two and a half hours (with many photo ops at the top).
You start out up a driveway and soon enter pine forest. After a mile or so it opens up and you can see astounding views overlooking the ocean. Closer to the top you can see jungle valleys and lush greenery around you.
I would highly recommend this hike. It’s one of my favorites in Hawaii but it’s certainly not for beginners. While I don’t think this hike is dangerous like many in Oahu, it’s still steep and requires a high level of fitness unless you want to devote your whole day to it (which might still be worth doing).
The only time I can see this hiking trail becoming a bit dangerous is right after a heavy rainstorm. Also be prepared to get your shoes dirty. All in all, I would rate Waihee Ridge Trail an 8.5 out of 10 for views. The best in Maui!
Need to Know Before you Go
Bring some snacks for this hike as there is a little viewpoint at the top (which is the halfway point) where you can rehydrate and refuel. Try to pick up trash if you see it along the way to keep this trail pristine. There will be plenty of photo ops along the trail so bring your camera. You can follow along on my Instagram at @shelbss44 to see more of my travels.
