EAST MAUI: THE ROAD TO HANA - Maui: Including Molokai and Lanai - page 478

terfall that is less dramatic—but also less-visited—than neighboring Waimoku Falls. The
waterfall here trickles its way down the towering canyon walls, and the pool at the bottom
can occasionally be frequented by those who prefer to bathe au naturel.
Back on the main trail, by continuing up the stairs you'll find a boardwalk through the
densest bamboo on the island. The sun can be shining directly overhead and yet it can be
dark enough inside you would think it were sunset. Finally, as you emerge from the creak-
ing cavern, five more minutes of rock hopping brings you to the piéce de résistance, which
of course is 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
ALELELE FALLS
Most visitors never take the time to make the short hike back to 60-foot Alelele Falls,
where there is a refreshing pool for swimming. Located on the fabled “back road” about
three miles past the pools of 'Ohe'o, the trailhead is at Alelele Bridge at mile marker 38.8;
park in one of the few parking spots available on the Kaupo side of the bridge. Alelele
Falls are officially the last waterfalls you'll encounter on your epic East Maui journey, If
you have the tiniest shred of energy left in you for a 10-minute hike through the jungle, the
reward is a waterfall of just the right height which offers just the right amount of seclusion.
Although parking for the trailhead is on the Kaupo side of the bridge, the trailhead itself is
back on the Kipahulu side at the spot where the bridge begins. Following this well-defined
trail, you'll crisscross the stream a couple of times and pass by ancient lava rock walls be-
fore emerging at the base of the pristine falls.
BIKING
The town of Pa'ia is the elbow joint for two of the most popular rides of the island: the fri-
gid ride down Haleakala and the weaving journey out toward Hana. Many of the island's
downhill bike tours finish their 6,500-foot descent on the shores of Pa'ia Bay, and many
of the island's avid cyclers depart Pa'ia for the ride of a lifetime toward Hana. With East
Maui's prominent location as a hub for island cycling, it should come as no surprise there
are also a few bike shops sprinkled around town.
Pa'ia
Far and away one of the most comprehensive cycling experiences on Maui is found at
Maui Cyclery (99 Hana Hwy., 808/579-9009, www.gocyclingmaui.com , 8am-6pm Mon.-
Fri., 8am-4pm Sat., 8am-noon Sun.), a small but thorough shop in the heart of Pa'ia. In
addition to offering rentals, parts, services, and sales, the staff at Maui Cyclery offer a
“fantasy camp for cyclists.” This is the only place on the island that offers a tour for vis-