Iao Valley State Monument

Iao Valley is a deep lush valley located on the eastern edge of the western Maui Mountains in central Maui. Located within Iao Valley is the Iao Valley State Monument, and off the paved trail is the Iao Needle, a 2,250 foot stone pillar that overlooks the Iao stream. It is surrounded by the walls of the Pu’u Kukui Crater, and the paved path leads to the Iao Needle and a ridge-top lookout which has spectacular views of the valley, and Kahului.

History

The Iao Valley is where King Kamehameha I destroyed the Maui army in 1790 in an effort to unite the Hawaiian Islands. It was one of the most famous and bloody battles in the history of the Hawaiian Islands. You can visit the King Kamehameha the Great Statue in Downtown Honolulu.

• Location: Central Maui
• Amenities: paved path, botanical gardens, restrooms, interpretive signage
• Insider Tip: Bring mosquito repellant!
• Fun Fact: The Iao needle was once used as a sacrificial altar!
• What To Expect: a short .6 mile hike on a paved path, breathtaking views of the valley and Kahului, interpretive signage, beautiful examples of Hawaiian flora.