If you remove the ‘I’iwi from the Hosmer Grove Trail in Haleakalā National Park, then it is without question my favorite of the five hikes we accomplished during our weekend on Maui was the ʻŌhai loop trail.
The ʻŌhai loop trail is named for the ʻŌhai, an endemic and endangered coastal species of flowering shrub that grows along this trail. According to an article by Jodie Rosam for the Hawai’i Wildlife Fund, historically, the orchid-like pod flowers of the ʻŌhai were used to make lei. However, their endangered status has restricted this practice. Rosam also suggests placing ʻōhai leaves under your pillow to promote vivid dreaming, deeper sleep, and to “open up the space of learning and receiving messages.“
I love learning about traditional practices and beliefs throughout the natural world, including those related to plants and animals—whether spiritual or medicinal—this fondness ultimately circles back to a fervent connection with these elements and storytelling: how we entwine outside forces within our own human existence.
About the Hike
Located on the north side of West Maui, just a few miles past the Nakalele Point trail, you’ll find the small parking area for the trailhead (parking space is limited, so keep that in mind).
Throughout the hike, you’ll be left breathless at viewpoints, not from physical exertion. The trail is an easy 1.2-mile loop that you can start from either direction (Left or Right, Mauka or Makai) without being left disappointed by the scenery.
Although spotting Hawai’i seabirds is noted as uncommon on the ʻŌhai trail, we did get lucky and see a Koa’e Kea, a white-tailed tropicbird indigenous to the islands. We had just begun the trail when I spotted it flying overhead, tail catching on the breeze like a kite ribbon. My camera was not poised for the shot, but I did manage to snag just one picture before the bird disappeared into the valley of hills and sea.
The ʻŌhai trail reminded us of our time in Ireland, with rolling hills of bright green opening to vibrant blue oceans and open-faced jagged cliff drops. But of course, it has all the characteristics and charm of its very own.
About the flora
The ʻŌhai is not the only native plant species you’ll encounter on the trail. A few other coastal crops thrive in this sun-dressed and brine-heavy air, including ʻĀkia,ʻIlieʻe, and ʻŪlei. The last two of which I recently planted in our yard as part of my efforts to reduce invasive species and revitalize the ʻāina.
Another species commonly found on the trail is Naupaka, which grows along the coastlines and is often found near beaches. During my high school Makai Lab, we learned various skills and sciences related to the ocean, including swimming techniques, limu identification, coral restoration, and much more. One interesting practice involved crushing Naupaka leaves and applying the oils to our snorkel masks as a defogger. Yes, it really works!
The native plant species I’ve listed above are just a few of the many you’ll see along the ʻŌhai trail. Part of what makes this trail so special is that it serves as a sanctuary for native coastal flora, and individuals interested in the trail have the opportunity to see endangered, endemic species (found nowhere else on earth) thriving in their natural ecosystem.
A Note: This post was 100% human-made. At no time did I use A.I to write this article. Images you see on this post were captured by me (or my partner) unless otherwise stated (credited/linked). Thank you for reading! 🙂
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