Kahakapao East Loop Trail(edit)

Overview

This is a easy one-way trail in Hawaii. The trail offers hiking, walking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and trail running and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. You can access a simple map of the area [here] (https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/recreation/files/2013/12/MauiNAHmap23.pdf).

You can either do this as an out and back hike or combine it with the West Loop for a 5.4 mile hike [Kahakapao Loop Trail] (https://www.gaiagps.com/hike/351878/kahakapao-loop-trail/). An alternative is to hike in and back on the same trail. Either way, you will be going uphill on the way in and downhill on the way out. Keep in mind that the elevation profile seen on this page shows you starting at the end of the hike.

Getting Started

Once inside the Makawao Forest Reserve, park at the second parking lot on the right (upper parking lot). The lower lot is for horse trailers. There are two portable toilets at the trailhead, but it's advisable to use the restroom prior to arrival as they are not very clean. Start hiking down a shaded path shared with mountain bikers until you come to the loop in approximately 0.5 miles. This track takes you halfway through the loop. At the stopping point, you can either finish the loop or return the way you came.

Taking Children

This is a good hike for children who can handle 5+ miles. There is a small amount of incline but it is not steep by any means.