Pōhākea (Māʻalaea Mauka)

Nestled at the foot of Mauna Kahālāwai in Central Maui, Pōhākea (also known as Māʻalaea Mauka) is a 257-acre parcel of land that holds immense cultural and ecological value. The site has a rich history as a traditional canoe landing location and teems with cultural, archaeological, and ecological treasures. Pōhākea is a vital connection to Maui’s past and a symbol of hope for future generations.

This land is also crucial in mitigating wildfire threats to the adjacent communities, particularly in the island’s most populous district. It is located just one community away from Lahaina, where wildfires wreaked havoc in August 2023, underscoring the urgency of wildfire prevention in this area.

To acquire and protect Pōhākea, Trust for Public Land (TPL) collaborated with the State of Hawai‘i, Maui County, and the local community. Now that it is publicly owned and managed, partners will work together to improve public access to hiking trails, preserve cultural and scenic resources, reduce the risk of wildfires and soil erosion, protect clean drinking water, and enhance the health of the nearby marine ecosystem.

Preserving cultural heritage and promoting community access to recreational resources are central to Pōhākea’s importance. From ancient trail connections such as the historic and popular Lahaina Pali Trail to its picturesque vistas and marine sanctuaries, this land offers a window into the island’s history. Now, these invaluable resources have been safeguarded, along with the opportunities for cultural enrichment, outdoor recreation, and community engagement.

The preservation of Pōhākea safeguards its cultural legacy while reducing the risk of wildfires to nearby communities. It connects us to Maui’s rich history and represents hope for future generations.