Lower Makamakaole Stream, West Maui

[Part 1] [Part 2]

After volunteering with the Kahoolawe Island Restoration Commission (KIRC) over the past week, Katie, Christian, Ryan and I decided to stay the weekend on Maui for some short waterfall hikes and coastal relaxation. Setting out early, we ended up driving counter-clockwise loop around West Maui, and started out with a two-part exploration along Makamakaole Stream.

A short hike down from where we parked, we encountered a large exposed pool with a rope swing.

And eventually, a series of shaded waterfalls.

The upper falls was easily contour-able using the tangles of banyon tree roots to climb down.

At the edge of the step-pool below the falls, we found that the next one would be a little more challenging to descend.

It was slightly higher than the first, and much more vertical. The condition of the ropes next to the falls were poor, so we ended up using some of the roots there which felt more secure.

The pool on this one was really nice, and deep! After checking for debris and hidden rocks, the guys took turns jumping into it from above.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to catch the jumps on camera…

Because I wanted to explore further downstream. Within minutes, I was at the top of a 50-60 foot waterfall.

Being extremely steep on either side, contouring this would be difficult and more dangerous.

Within 10-15 minutes, and the aid of some 80ft of webbing and crampon microspikes I brought with me, I found a way to get down. The pool was much larger, but there seemed to be some rocks near the base… Anyone ballsy enough to jump it would need some pretty good clearance! For me, contouring was the safer way to go. I only stayed for a few minutes, since the rest of the crew were waiting up top for me… and there was more adventure to be had upstream! 😉

As with any hike or outdoor adventure here in the islands, please know when you are in over your head and know when to turn back. Please be responsible and properly prepare yourself and hike with others who are capable and who you can trust. Stay safe out on the trails and have fun!

Aloha and mahalo nui for visiting… Come back again soon!