New Guided Hike Offered Through Haleakala Ranch

Photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

The state’s Na Ala Hele Trails and Access Program will launch a new guided hike program at Maui’s Haleakala Ranch this weekend.

The interpretive hike traverses the 3.5 mile Haleakala Bridle Trail, which follows a portion of an old horse trail through the pastures of Upcountry, Maui.

“The hike is over a portion of an old horse trail that was used prior to 1935 where hikers can witness first-hand the Ranch’s commitment to keeping its core lands thriving through ongoing conservation efforts,” said Don Young, President of Haleakala Ranch.

The four-hour hike begins at the 6,200 foot elevation off of Crater Road and continues downhill through sub-alpine shrub-land and working pastures to the top of Olinda Road.

The hike features eucalyptus forests, active livestock operations, open pastures, and old trail markers.

The new hike is offered free of charge as a service to the public. Reservations are required and can be made via the Na Ala Hele website at: http://hawaiitrails.ehawaii.gov/island.php?island=Maui.

Parking is available at the Waihou Spring State Forest Reserve parking area.  Hikers should dress in layers and prepare for wet and cool conditions with the potential for limited visibility due to fog.