ʻĪao Valley on Maui is a rainforest-carved canyon and historic battleground, known for the soaring ʻĪao Needle and easy trail to memorial sites.

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Geography

AddressʻĪao Valley, Maui, HI, USAʻĪao Stream Road
ContinentNorth America
RegionHawaii — Maui
SubregionHawaii — Maui
CountryUnited States
StateHawaii
CountyMaui County
DistrictʻĪao Valley / Wailuku
CityWailuku
NeighborhoodʻĪao Valley
Postal Code96793
TimezonePacificHonolulu
Latitude20.89
Longitude-156.503
Maps
☀️4:14 PM LOCAL TIME

ʻĪao Valley is a steep-walled, rain-soaked gorge near Wailuku on Maui, carved through volcanic basalt and lush tropical rainforest. Its most famous landmark is the crystalline, needle-shaped ʻĪao Needle (Kāʻiwao), climbed for city views and cultural significance—though it’s shorter than many headlines suggest, its prominence is dramatic against the surrounding palms and terraced farmland. Beneath it, short, paved paths lead to tranquil pools and memorial landmarks honoring Maui warriors; nearby facilities and parking prioritize easy access. The valley’s environment is a vigorous cloud-forest mash of ʻōhiʻa-Metrosideros and ʻōlapa-Trachycarpus-tamarisk mixes, which means unpredictable rain and vibrant greenery year-round. Visitors come for calming walks, history, and views, but should prepare for changing weather, steep paths, and respect cultural sites and natural safety practices.

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