One thing about living on an island in the middle of the ocean is that, when wanderlust strikes, it can be such a mission to get out of town. Thankfully, the plus side of that is that Maui offers countless ways to explore different terrain.
There are many beautiful hikes around Maui, but have you ever thought about heading out to explore them under the light of the moon? While the dog days of Summer may have left you seeking shade, let Fall inspire you to adventure under the brilliant light of the full moon, at a more relaxed pace under the endless night sky.
It’s important that you know the trail well before you venture out to explore it by moonlight. Make sure you have been there a few times during the day and make note of any splits in the trail or challenging spots that might not be as obvious with lunar lighting. Whichever path you choose, be sure you have ample water, snacks, and a headlamp so you don’t get left in the dark in case the clouds move in. It’s also a fabulous time to invite a couple of friends to join you on the journey.
Some favorite spots for full moon hikes are Haleakalā crater, Keoneʻōʻio Bay (also known as La Perouse), and the Waihe’e Ridge Trail. Be sure that you check for any notices about parking at night, and it’s always a good idea to notify someone who is not coming with you of your plans, including your route and estimated return time.
Moonlit hikes can also be a beautiful opportunity to do some self-reflection. There is a quality to the light that allows you to see in a new way. Here are some prompts you may wish to bring with you on a moonlight hike and to share with good friends.
- What am I grateful for right now, both big things and small?
- What have I done lately that I’m proud of? (This can be tricky for some, but experiment with letting yourself feel proud of what you’ve done.)
- What are the three most important things I value in life?
- What would I love to do or accomplish in this next cycle of the moon?
- Why do I want to do or accomplish that?
- What might get in the way, and how can I plan for and overcome those obstacles?
- What would the people who are closest to me in my life say they appreciate about me?
- How specifically can I take better care of myself in the coming month?
