Ke'anae Arboretum is a six-acre tropical garden and forest beside the Hana Highway on Maui. Its short walking route passes native and introduced plants, including ginger, papaya and hibiscus, with rainbow eucalyptus among the main draws. A taro patch at the end of the first half-mile section gives a glimpse of a traditional Hawaiian food crop. Stop for a gentle walk among the trees, then cool your feet at the small stream before continuing toward Hana.
Plants along the route
The arboretum covers six acres along Highway 360 and is managed by the State of Hawaiʻi. Its collection includes native and introduced plants, from ornamental and fruiting trees to food plants. Labels along the path help identify what is growing, and the route is suitable for a self-guided walk.
The first half-mile passes introduced plants such as ginger, papaya and hibiscus. Rainbow eucalyptus trees are a popular reason to stop. Continue along the path to see more of the collection, or turn back after the eucalyptus if you are fitting in a brief walk. A small stream runs through the area; it is not large enough for swimming, but you can cool your feet there.
Taro and the land's past
At the end of the first half-mile section, the trail reaches a taro patch, known in Hawaiian as a loʻi kalo. Taro is an important food plant in Hawaiʻi, and the patch connects the cultivated landscape with the arboretum's plant collection.
The land was once used by local communities to grow food, medicinal and fiber-producing plants. From 1946 to the mid-1950s, it was an agricultural work site for inmates from the nearby Keʻanae Prison Camp. The arboretum's terraces were also built for taro cultivation.
Planning a walk
The route is an out-and-back walk, and the time you spend depends on whether you continue beyond the rainbow eucalyptus or pause to explore the plants. Allow one to two hours for a visit. The trail is relatively short, but the ground can be uneven or muddy, so walking shoes are useful.
Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be a nuisance, along with sunscreen, rain protection and water. Weather can change quickly in this area. Parking is limited beside the highway, and the entrance is near a blind turn. Slow down as you approach and take care when crossing from the parking area to the gate.
Preguntas frecuentes
How long does a visit to Ke'anae Arboretum take?
Allow one to two hours for the walk. You can make it a shorter stop by visiting the rainbow eucalyptus and returning along the same route.
What can you see at Ke'anae Arboretum?
The collection includes native and introduced plants, such as ginger, papaya and hibiscus, as well as rainbow eucalyptus. A taro patch is at the end of the first half-mile section.
Is the walk paved?
The arboretum has a walking path, but some sections can be rugged or muddy. Wear sturdy shoes.
What should I bring?
Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, rain gear and water. Mosquitoes can be present, and the weather can change quickly.
