Waipoli Road and Mamane Trail Loop

Access to the trail is via Waipoli Road. The pavement ends at approximately 6,400 feet elevation, and you'll find parking areas around the Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area, which serves as a common trailhead for this loop.

The terrain is quite varied. The Mamane Trail section starts with low shrubs and grassy slopes, offering smoother sections. As you descend, it becomes more technical with loose cobble, small drops, and increasingly rocky and rooty sections. The lower reaches are particularly challenging with extended sections of rocks and boulders. When dry, the soil can be silty, affecting traction, while moist conditions can make it tacky.

The Waipoli Road and Mamane Trail Loop typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete for jogging, covering a distance of nearly 10 kilometers with significant elevation changes.

While Komoot rates the loop as 'moderate' for hiking, for jogging, it presents a more significant challenge. The 520-foot elevation change over 1.8 miles on the Mamane Trail, combined with technical sections of rocks, roots, and loose cobble, makes it moderate to difficult for trail running, especially for those not accustomed to significant elevation gains or technical terrain.

You can expect stunning panoramic views of the Maui Coast and the Central Maui Valley from higher vantage points. The trail also offers a journey through diverse ecosystems, from native shrublands and Mamane tree groves to stands of pine, eucalyptus, and even redwood trees planted in the 1930s.

Yes, key points of interest include the Mamane Trail itself, known for its varied terrain and native vegetation. There's also a designated Viewpoint offering expansive vistas of the surrounding landscape.

The Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area, where the trail is located, sits at 6,200 feet, providing a cooler, wetter climate than lower elevations. This makes it a good option during warmer months on Maui. However, be prepared for potential dust in dry conditions or slippery surfaces when wet. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails within the Kula Forest Reserve, including this loop. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users.

The Waipoli Road and Mamane Trail Loop is located within the Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area, which is part of the Kula Forest Reserve. While there are no specific permits required for jogging the trails, standard state park regulations apply. For the most current information on any potential fees or specific regulations, it's always best to check the official Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources website: hawaii.gov.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll spend a significant portion on Waipoli Road and the Mamane Trail, but it also passes through parts of Skyline Road, Upper Waiohuli Trail, Redwood Trail, Polipoli Trail, and Waiohuli Trail.

Be prepared for the lower sections of the Mamane Trail, which are considerably more technical than the upper parts. These areas feature extended sections of rocks and boulders, loose cobble, and roots. While some parts may be smooth and fast, the overall challenge increases significantly as you descend, requiring careful foot placement and good trail running shoes.