Waimoku Falls sits on the southeast side of Maui on the lower slope of Haleakala volcano. Haleakala summit is just over 10,000 feet and affects the weather depending on the part of the island (www.shannontech.com). The west side of Maui (Kihei) has a desert environment while Hana in the southeast is a rainforest. The Hana region receives much of the island's rain. This weather phenomenon means that Waimoku Falls and its subsequent smaller falls and runoff streams can fill with water to the point they are impassable, causing a flash flood. Hikers must take particular care if they are crossing streams and falls on their journey (www.mauiguidebook.com).
Because of the rain, the cliffs and valleys surrounding Waimoku Falls are quickly chipped away due to erosion (the gradual destruction or diminution of something). The amount of water flowing over the falls causes boulders to fall away from the cliffs (www.nps.gov). These boulders range in size from pebbles to the size of a car. Hikers are not allowed to get too near the base of the falls due to this danger. Stop and think about how much time it may have taken to erode away the cliffside to establish the water's current path. Keep in mind that that the youngest lava flow from Haleakala to the east side of Maui is at least 500 years old (www.hvo.wr.usgs.gov). The lava flow that resulted in Waimoku Falls is not the youngest lava flow by a fair margin.
QUESTIONS
1. Observing the photos on the information plaques along the way, how heavy is the current flow of Waimoku Falls?
2. Do you see any boulders that may have recently fallen? Did you witness any boulders fall themselves?
3. Analyze the cliff walls surrounding the falls - do any portions look like they may fall soon? Give a short explanation of what you see.
4. Is the stream shortly before the end of the trail (and viewpoint to the falls) passable? What is the condition - dry bed, small stream? Did you have to boulder hop?
5. How does the stronger water flow affect erosion? Do you think it affects the size of boulders that fall from the cliffs?
6. Describe the texture and layers of the cliff. Do you see variations of color? Significant cracks in the cliff face?
**NOTE** The Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park wishes to remind visitors to not disturb any flora, fauna, and be respectful of the cultural significance of the area. Pack it in, pack it out, and leave no trace. Thank you!