Makawao & Haiku loop via Baldwin Avenue & Hana Highway

The Makawao & Haiku loop is estimated to take approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes to complete for an average cyclist. However, this can vary based on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

This route is generally considered a moderate ride and requires good fitness. It features a significant uphill climb on Baldwin Avenue and several 'rollers' throughout, making it less suitable for absolute beginners. Cyclists should be comfortable with elevation changes and varying terrain.

While the exact starting point can be flexible, many cyclists begin in Paia or near the start of Baldwin Avenue. Parking is available in Paia town, which offers a convenient base for the loop. Always check local parking regulations.

The route covers approximately 30 miles with an elevation gain of about 3,000 feet. It starts with a substantial 1,700-foot climb over 7 miles on Baldwin Avenue to Makawao. Following this, you'll experience a scenic descent through Haiku, then 'tight, windy rollers' through the jungle, a final climb on E Kuiaha Road, and 'steady rollers' on the return along the Hana Highway. The surfaces are mostly well-paved.

You'll experience a diverse range of breathtaking scenery, including lush tropical environments, dense jungle, and picturesque ocean views. Highlights include the charming town of Makawao, the vibrant Hoʻokipa Beach (known for surf, windsurf, kiteboarding, and sea turtles), and the iconic Hana Highway with its tropical rainforests and coastal vistas. On clear days, you might even spot the Big Island with snow on Mauna Kea.

Key points of interest include the 'cowboy town' of Makawao, the jungle town of Haiku, and Hoʻokipa Beach. Both Makawao and Haiku offer opportunities for refueling with general stores, restaurants, and food trucks.

Maui offers good cycling conditions year-round, but the dry season from April to October generally provides the most consistent weather with less rain. However, the lush jungle sections are beautiful even during wetter periods. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

This is a road cycling route primarily on public roads. While dogs are generally not suitable companions for this type of strenuous road cycling, specific rules for dogs on public roads vary. It's best to keep pets off the route for their safety and that of cyclists.

No, this road cycling loop does not require any special permits or entrance fees as it primarily uses public roads and passes through towns and natural areas that are freely accessible.

Yes, you'll find opportunities to refuel and get water. The town of Makawao has a general store, restaurants, and food trucks. The town of Haiku also provides eateries. It's always wise to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for the climbing sections.

Yes, while primarily a road cycling route, it does briefly pass through very small sections of other local roads such as Hahana Road, Mihi Road, Nahele Road, Sunny Side Road, and Beach Access.