Boot Hill Paniolo LbNA #39681

In the 19th century, King Kamehameha was gifted with cattle by a visiting sea captain. A short time later, Spanish vaqueros from California came to Hawaii to teach Kamehameha's men to handle the animals which had quickly become a nuisance, roaming free throughout the countryside. To this day, many local ranches are home to Hawaiian cowboys, paniolos. Upcountry Maui is well-known as paniolo country.

Drive north from the center of Makawao town less than .5 mile on Makawao Ave. Just past St. Joseph's Church, turn right on Piiholo Road. After approximately 1.5 miles, turn left on the Waiahiwi Road. Then go right on Kahakapao Road. Park outside the gate with the brown sign that reads Entering Makawao Forest Reserve. Driving beyond the gate is restricted to park employees. The hike is about three miles roundtrip.

Walk down then up the steep road about 2/3rds mile to what looks like a parking area and Kahakapao Loop Trail trailhead on the right. Follow the trail to a junction. Go right around the bend. Don't stumble on the two rocks in the middle of your path. Walk two dozen steps farther and look behind the standing snag on your left at its base.