The Iao valley state park is located in West Maui, Hawai’i and covered 6.2 acres of area.Valley has great historical significance a thousand years ago, Hawaiians gathered at `Iao Valley to celebrate and honor the bounty of Lono, god of agriculture, during the annual makahiki festival. But it was here in 1790, at the Battle of Kepaniwai, that King Kamehameha clashed with Maui’s army in his quest to unite the islands. Kamehameha defeated Maui’s forces in a ferocious battle that ultimately changed the course of Hawaiian history

Park also famous for rainforest .Good time to visit in raining on Maui as the waterfalls off of the cliffs here are spectacular!

 Attractions

Iao Needle

Iao Needle (see left), a volcanic monolith 2,250 feet (686 m) high, soars nearly straigt up 1200 feet from the valley floor. This is widely considered a lookout for warriors of Maui and the view from the bottom is quite impressive

Hiking

Visitors clamor to witness the striking natural beauty of the region. It’s a great place for those wanting to hiking.

Garden areas

A small garden area lies near the stream that shows examples of native Hawaiian plants and also plants imported by the original settlers of the islands.

There is many different plant species available here. This is where the guided walks help if you want to know everything regarding these plants.

Nature Center

Near the entrance of Iao Valley State Park there is a nature center with a small store and nature exhibits. The guided hikes mentioned above start from this location.

Heritage Gardens

Kepaniwai Park’s Heritage Gardens (established 1952 and restored in 1994), has honored the multicultural history of the island of Maui. It is a nice place and if you are there must see and walked around.

Opening Time

Park open from 7am to 7pm

Fact and Features:

• Restroom facilities
• Paved parking lot in State Park
• No drinking water
• Easy hiking trails
• For an excellent view of the ‘Iao Needle, follow the paved pathway along the stream leading from the State Park parking lot
• Bring mosquito repellent
• The top of the ‘Iao Needle is often hidden behind clouds so get there early for the best view