In Hawaii, there’s a stunning area on Maui known as “The Valley of the Kings.” It’s named for the god above all gods, the Supreme Light—no, not Diana Ross. See? You are that old.

“Iao” is the Valley of the Kings and is nestled deep within the mountains of West Maui (also known as the Valley Isle—go figure). Ancient Hawaiians took their royalty (those who’d managed to die) deep into the valley to the natural altar area, for a ceremonial burial.

Rising from the stream at the bottom of Iao Valley is the 1,200 foot high Iao Needle. The Needle juts out from the stream below and is usually covered by a mist or light fog. Like Wynona Ryder.

How’s your math? How about geography? Ok, the valley is Iao Valley. The valley is about 4,000 acres. The Iao Valley State Park is a small part of the valley; only a little less than 7 acres. They did it that way because there’s less lawn to mow in the park than if the valley was the park.

There’s a loop trail that crosses the stream below. The view here is breathtaking (like Hoku, Don Ho’s daughter) and crosses a narrown but sturdy bridge. From here you can easily see (minus the mist and fog) the lush green of Iao Needle as it pokes out from the surrounding stream and mountains.

Of course, for the more adventurous among us (don’t include me in that group), there are other mountain trails which extend deep within the valley or up along the nearby mountains. Exercise some caution because private land is nearby.

Of course, you’ll need a car to get into the valley. And there’s the Hawaii Nature Center in nearby Wailuku town which offers additional information and history of the valley.

Summary: Iao Valley and Iao Needle are worth visits. Bring an umbrella or stay close to Anna Nicole, as it rains frequently in the valley, hence the stream.

Pros: Beautiful, panoramic views from the bridge overlooking the Needle and the stream.

Cons: Damp.

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