When people think of Maui, they think of panoramic views of the beach framed by lush green mountains. While Maui is incredible in a wide­ angle view, the island offers a lot more when it is explored up close and by foot. With a lot of things to do in Maui, hiking is one of the must ­do activities visitors and locals love to do. So here are five amazing Maui hiking trails to explore:

#1 Pipiwai Trail

The Pipiwai Trail features waterfalls and a string of pools that are surrounded by lush greenery of the Maui rainforest.

The Pipiwai Trail is an immersive experience for visitors and locals looking to reconnect with nature. The trail features waterfalls and a string of pools that are surrounded by lush greenery of the Maui rainforest. As the 1.8­mile hike unfolds, you are greeted by a massive banyan tree with branches that seem to stretch out endlessly. The mood of the walk then changes to a zen­-like atmosphere as the trail slowly gets surrounded by tall bamboos rattling in the wind. Exiting the bamboo forest, you are finally rewarded with a view of a 400 feet raging waterfall.

#2 Sliding Sands Trail

The Sliding Sands trail is a 5.5­mile round trip trail on top of the Haleakala volcano.

The Sliding Sands trail is a 5.5­mile round trip trail on top of the Haleakala volcano. The colorful volcanic landscapes will leave you wondering if you are on another planet. The journey along the trail is an excellent opportunity to witness a rare plant called “Haleakala silversword” which can only survive in dry climates like an aeolian cinder desert. The recommended trail ends at the Ka Lu’u o ka O’o cinder cone which is composed of volcanic minerals creating spectacular colors of yellow, green, and red.

#3 Waihee Ridge Trail

The 2.5­ mile Waihee Ridge Trail is one of the most challenging Maui hikes with 1,500 feet of elevation.

If you are staying in West Maui and don’t have the time to drive the road to Hana or Haleakala for a hike, this West Maui hike is perfect for you. The 2.5­ mile trail is one of the most challenging Maui hikes with 1,500 feet of elevation. However, it will be worth it when you reach the top of the incline and get a first glance of the two-­tiered Makamaka’ole waterfall. As you reach the end of the trail, you are either treated with a spectacular view of the Waihee Valley or an opportunity to be surrounded by clouds atop the mountain.

#4 ​Iao Valley

Iao Valley is for visitors looking for a gentle hike and a scenic view of ‘Iao Needle

Iao Valley is for visitors looking for a gentle hike and a scenic view of ‘Iao Needle, a phallic shaped stone created by natural rock formations and covered by lush greenery. One of the most famous battles in Hawaii happened in the valley, making it one of Maui’s most historical and sacred sites. The valley will leave you feeling reinvigorated with soothing sounds of the stream along with the clean and fresh air. There are pavilions in the valley which makes it a fun place for the whole family to have a picnic or barbecue after exploring the site.

#5 Kapalua Coastal Trail

Kapalua Coastal Trail

The Kapalua Coastal trail is a 3.5­mile walk on alternating wooden and volcanic rock pathways and is perfect for visitors who want a hike along the coastline. The Maui hiking trail shows the extraordinary ways of how water meets land, from calm sandy beaches to rocky black cliffs. Exceptional views of neighboring islands of Lana’i and Molokai, seabird eggs concealed in volcanic formations, and four of Maui’s most beautiful bays, are a few of the stunning views that this West Maui hike has to offer.