DESTINATION: UPCOUNTRY

Ascending the verdant mountain slopes of Haleakala, you begin to notice a dramatic change in landscape and climate. As the elevation climbs into the thousands, the temperatures drop several degrees, and the prevailing vegetation and trees seem more appropriate to the Pacific Northwest. This is Upcountry Maui.

         Undulating waves of green pasture are peaked with prickly cactus and towering Eucalyptus groves. In late spring, roadways to Kula are lined with splashes of purple in the brilliant blooms of Jacaranda trees. In the higher elevations, fields of sugar cane and pineapple are replaced by small farms producing some of the best-tasting onions, lettuces and strawberries to be found anywhere, as well as exotic protea and fragrant lavender flowers. Vineyards producing for Hawaii’s only winery are tucked into the southwestern side of the mountain. And, at the center of it all rises the majestic volcanic crater known as Haleakala, “house of the sun.”

Dominating East Maui with its summit at 10,023 feet, Haleakala offers a variety of eco-systems and climatic changes. One of only two national parks in Hawai‘i, Haleakala is home to endangered species of birds and plant life along with exotic landscapes, such as the moon-like surface of the crater. But it is best known for a multitude of activities that are available across its slopes.

One of the best excursions you can take during your stay on Maui is a day Upcountry, and there are several ways to do it. Begin with a drive from Central Maui to the lower grassland slopes along Omaopio Road. Desertscape vistas stretch for miles in all directions until you reach the emerald green pastures of Surfing Goat Dairy. This farm not only produces some of the most delectable goat cheese in North America, but it also offers a variety of tours. No reservations are required for the casual dairy tour or evening chores tour for an up-close and personal visit with the goat herd. The 1-2-3 BBQ tour is the newest activity. It includes two guided tours and an Upcountry ranch barbecue with steaks, burgers, fresh salads and more. Call for details and dates. The popular Grand Dairy tour features an interactive goat herding and gourmet cheese tasting experience, and is available two Saturdays a month.

Take the scenic curves of Hwy. 37 heading southwest and around the mountain until you reach an oasis of towering trees at ‘Ulupalakua Ranch, home of Maui’s Winery, Tedeschi Vineyards. Stroll through manicured gardens to the Tasting Room, where you’ll sample a variety of sparkling, red and white wines, including the famous Pineapple wine. In the History Room, learn more about the ranch and its famous guests. Guided winery tours are offered three times a day at no charge. Across the street at the quaint Ranch Store, step back in time to the heyday of Maui’s paniolo and pick up a cowboy hat or a cup of Maui Black Gold coffee. At the Deli and Grill, you’ll find all kinds of fixin’s for a picnic lunch or barbecue dinner.

For a day in Makawao, the colorful cowboy town at the edge of the forest, you may want to explore Haleakala Ranch lands by booking an eco-tour. Just outside of town, turn on Piiholo Road where one of the more unique horseback trail rides can be found. Piiholo Ranch features a working cattle ranch where horseback riders can help move the herd on certain days of the week. Also be sure to check out their new Piiholo Ranch Store in the heart of Makawao town.

Higher up Haleakala’s slopes toward Crater Road, you can hook up with Haleakala ATV Tours. This four-wheeling adventure takes you across rugged terrain, over streams, and up to an endemic rainforest in the clouds. Both activities offer a glimpse into the real life adventure of an Upcountry ranchhand.

The beauty and bounty of Upcountry Maui is an experience that can be enjoyed by all and appreciated by aloha ‘aina - love of the land.