If you're looking for a stunning park to visit in Maui, look no further than Iao Valley State Park. It's conveniently located in Wailuku and offers breathtaking views that will make you feel like you're in Jurassic Park. Plus, you can learn about the cultural and geological history of the area while you're there.

  

There are plenty of things to do in the park, so you won't be bored. Take a stroll along the paved trails and climb the 100 or so steps to get a great view of the 'Iao Needle and Wailuku. Along the way, you'll see informative signs that teach you about Hawaiian gods, battles, and ancient Hawaiian ways of life.

  

If you're a nature lover, you'll enjoy exploring the botanical garden. It's home to many "canoe plants" that were brought here by the first settlers of Hawai'i. And if you're lucky enough to visit during certain times of the year, you'll be surrounded by fruiting guava and mountain apple trees. Just be sure to choose fruit that has recently fallen to the ground so you don't upset anyone nearby.

  

If you're feeling hot and sticky, take a dip in the cool waters of the Iao Stream. It's a refreshing treat on a hot summer day. And if you're up for a bit of adventure, there are many unofficial hiking paths along the stream and up the ridges forming 'Iao Valley. Just be aware that they're not well-marked or well-traveled, so you'll need to be adventurous. And if you see a sign forbidding access, don't continue.

 

So, if you're planning on taking a dip or going for a hike along ‘Iao stream in Maui, you gotta be super careful about flash flooding. It's a pretty common occurrence, especially in the West Maui Mountains. Even if it's not raining on you, it could be pouring up at the headwaters of the stream. So, keep an eye out for any changes in the water's color or level. And if you do notice anything funky, get to higher ground ASAP. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that you are not just another statistic.