Reviewed by: Spot Rider ,  Cross Country Rider

Summary:
What an unbelievable experience!!!!!
It was in Mid-May of 2003. I started in Poli-Poli at 6:30 am. Very soon I wished I had my own bike instead of the nice folks at West-Coast-Cycles. However, I couldn’t let the machine be the reason for failing. Plus the incredible views were a great pay-off.
Everything from southern France-like forest over sandy switch-back climbs to meadows and finally the lava fields. Once you hit the pavement, it is only a short climb to the top and how satisfying is it to ride the last couple of yards with everybody staring at you thinking you are out of your mind.
The GPS said: 11 miles from the beginning of the dirt road at Poli-Poli.
It is just about a non-stop climb of about 4,000 feet.
After some rest, nutrition and water, the return trip was more than what you would ever expect. Even though you just came up the same way the views are just as great the second time around.
DO NOT miss the turn-off to Mamane Trail. A roller coaster through lava rocks, pine trees and bushes you will never forget.
Once back at sea level (resting at Hookipa), looking back at the now cloud covered Volcano, the day seemed almost surreal.

To make it short, if you are an avid mountain biker on vacation on Maui, you should not miss this for the world.
Did I mention that except on the very top, I did not meet one other rider/hiker/human. What a treat!

Recommended Route:
Park your car at Poli-Poli at the end of the paved road.

Reviewed by: Ryan the Kid , from Kula Maui Hawaii

Summary:
Most of the trails are pretty XC unless you shuttle from the very top. Im in the process of finishing the newest trail in the Area. Top Secret. No Tourists alowed.

Recommended Route:
Waipoli road, shuttle unless wearing spandex

Other recommended trails in the same area:
Mawk Forest Reserve, Skyline, Mamane, Lost Shovel Tril if you can find it.

Reviewed by: David , from Alaska

Summary:
I add these comments from the perspective of a 56 yo beginner mtb'er accompanied by 15 yo son. We camped out a Hosmer Grove in the Nat'l Park (very nice, uncrowded, elev 7,000). Left at 7:30 on full suspension bikes rented from Extreme Sports (recommended), rode 10 miles up the grade to the 10,000 summit, then made a careful descent to Poli Poli on the Skyline trail, which I judge to be about 50/50 beginner/intermediate and 100% enjoyable. The upper fifth is loose gravel with fist-sized lava rocks; this changes to sandy FWD track great for beginners. The paved Poli Poli access road is steep with lots (!) of switchbacks. Make sure your brakes work. Once we reached the main highway, we continued down the 20 mile standard bike tour route to Pa'ia near the coast, arriving about 5:00 pm, where we met our ride. Total trip about 50 miles; could be done in half the time by more aggressive riders. Take water, food, windbreaker, and you'll have a great ride. Its not mtb'ing but don't omit the last 20 miles on paved highway -- how often can you ride downhill continuously (!) for two hours through beautiful countryside in perfect weather? Recommended for riders of all skill levels.

Recommended Route:
Haleakala summit to Pa'ia via Skyline and Poli Poli