One of the things that I like most about Maui, is the amazing diversity in landscapes. From the mysterious soil of Haleakala, to the green West Maui Mountains, and all the sandy beaches,rocky beaches and cliffs in between, Maui is truly unique.
When I think of a tropical island, I think of lush green vegetation, running water streams, palm trees,the smell of the ocean, blue skies and fresh air. On Maui, Iao Valley State Park is just that.
Iao is a lush,stream-cut valley in central Maui. Home for the famous Iao Needle,a 2250 foot high erosional remnant, that is covered with vegetation and surrounded by the cliffs of the West Maui mountains.
Iao Needle's traditional Hawaiian name is Kukaemoku, and it is known as the phallic stone of Kanaloa, Hawaiian god of the ocean.
Iao Valley is a peaceful area with easy hikes, tropical lush, and clear natural pools.
The views from the ridge-top are fantastic.
Iao Valley is also of historic significance. It is the site of the Battle of Kepaniwa in 1790, when King Kamehameha 1 destroyed the Maui army in quest to unite the Hawaiian islands. the battle is referred to as the "Battle of dammed Waters of Iao", because many people died and their corpses floated in the river"damming the waters".
Iao Valley State Park is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, after all, who can resist being in the arms of the beautiful lush nature?
Comments (9)
Hi Candi, wonderful post. I enjoyed reading about this great hiking spot on Maui and looking and your beautiful photos. Looks like such a great place to do some hiking and soaking up of nature. Lush and beautiful.
Thanks for sharing more of this beautiful island.
Posted by Kathy (Trekcapri) | May 7, 2009 7:08 AM
Posted on May 7, 2009 07:08
What a beautiful state park! Love your photos. Looks like there are some nice walking paths there.
Posted by Annie | May 7, 2009 10:07 AM
Posted on May 7, 2009 10:07
I love these Hawaii photos and descriptions. You and Girasoli are moving Hawaii further up my "list."
Posted by Amy | May 7, 2009 5:58 PM
Posted on May 7, 2009 17:58
Amy,
It is truly a wonderful place, that has a lot to offer.
Posted by candi | May 8, 2009 1:33 PM
Posted on May 8, 2009 13:33
Wow, those photos are gorgeous!! This is a fascinating post, lots of wonderful history and information. I'm trying to remember where I've heard of King Kamehameha before - maybe the TV show Magnum PI! lol
Posted by Anne | May 9, 2009 2:21 PM
Posted on May 9, 2009 14:21
I have never been to Iao Valley. It is one of the places on Maui that I would love to visit. Have you hiked in this area? Can you hike to the top of the needle? Great photos!!
Posted by girasoli | May 9, 2009 4:19 PM
Posted on May 9, 2009 16:19
Anne, yes,maybe Magnum PI is where your heard the name Kamehameha.
girasoli, we have taken the small hikes/walks around the state park, but I don't know of any trails in/to the needle. It is a very beautiful and relaxing place with the sound of running water, and the lush beauty, I could spend hours there.
Posted by candi | May 10, 2009 12:59 AM
Posted on May 10, 2009 00:59
Beautiful! Reading your blog and looking at your gorgeous pictures is my way of getting my "island" fix.
Posted by María I. | May 11, 2009 10:23 AM
Posted on May 11, 2009 10:23
Maria, I am always happy to provide you with your "island fix" :)
Posted by candi | May 12, 2009 1:49 PM
Posted on May 12, 2009 13:49