The property is just 10-minutes from Hana town and offers easy access to Waianapanapa State Par and the backside of Haleakala. You can find their prices and availability here. If you’re looking for the best views over Maui, the Upcountry is where you want to go. Hana offers wild beauty and remote escape. But the Upcountry offers a funky vibe that you can’t find anywhere else on the island.
When you visit the Upcountry, the views get better and better the further up the mountain that you travel. However, with each winding switchback, you’re further from the beach. If you love hiking and mountain biking, this area is heaven. But if you love chilling next to the waves, consider West Maui.
Paia Inn is a quaint North Shore hotel that offers a prime location for those wanting to explore the North Shore or do a one-day jaunt of the Hana Highway.
Wandering Wagars is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates.
Types of Recreation Available: Hiking, camping, horseback riding, picnicking, watchable wildlife. Leashed pets are allowed on trails.
Directions: Take U.S. 70 for 14 miles east of the I-25/U.S. 70 interchange in Las Cruces, then turn south on the Aguirre Spring Road (1.1 miles after San Augustine Pass) for six miles. At mile 4 the road becomes a one-way loop and climbs steeply.
Fees: $5 per vehicle and $15 per bus. Camping fees are $7 per campsite. Group sites are $50. Group site reservations are required.
Rated as one of the best places to stay on Maui for families, Grand Wailea is awesome if you have kids. Not only does this Maui resort have one of the best pool complexes in Hawaii (nine different pools, loads of water slides, and a brand new “lava slide,” it also has a rope swing, lazy river, water elevator, hot tubs, and even an adults-only pool for that much-needed couples getaway.
The resort also features a highly rated kids club, a teen club, a games lounge, and loads of amazing cultural events and activities that will help bring the island to life.
Location & Information: Located on the east side of Las Cruces, hikers can choose to go to the top for a 2.5 mile out and back or complete the 6-mile trail across the pass and end in Aguirre Springs.
Directions: From I-25 Exit 1 (University Avenue) in Las Cruces, head northeast on University (which eventually turns into Dripping Springs Road) for 7.7 miles. Turn left onto Baylor Canyon Rd and head north. The Trailhead is 4.8 miles down the road on the right (east) side.
White Sands National Park offers a wide variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, biking, and driving. The park features several well-marked trails that wind through the striking white sand dunes, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging hikes for more experienced adventurers.
Bikers can explore the dunes on designated routes, while drivers can take the eight-mile Dunes Drive scenic route to experience the stunning views from the comfort of your own vehicle.
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience by Sledding down the giant Sand Dunes at White Sands National Park. Visitors can bring their sleds or rent them from the park’s gift shop. The best time to sled is in the early morning or late afternoon when the sand is cool, and the sun is not too hot. Sledding down the smooth, gleaming white slopes is a thrilling and unforgettable experience that is sure to be a highlight of any trip to White Sands National Park.
Horseback riding is a popular way to explore the stunning landscapes of White Sands National Park. Horseback riding trails wind through the dunes, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and desert flora and fauna. Visitors can bring their own horses by applying for a free permit and providing insurance information prior to entering the park. Horseback riding is a unique and peaceful way to experience the park’s natural beauty and is a great option for families or groups looking for a memorable outdoor adventure.
Location & Information: Located about 5 miles north of Las Cruces, it offers a number of hiking trails, 15 miles of mountain biking trails and 7 miles of horseback trails (which are not signed as well as the other trails). The Southern trails are recommended for beginners as they are reasonably lengthy and not as technical as opposed to the Northern trails which are shorter but more technical.