| IAO VALLEY Pronounced "EE-ow", this valley is the remnant of Maui's first volcano. `Iao means "cloud supreme", and refers to the bank of clouds that often sits over the valley. It is approximately 5 miles long and flanked by dense rainforest walls almost a mile in height. The Hawaiian god Kane is the procreator and the provider of the life giving elements. He is the patron of wai (fresh water) and is often associated with clouds, rain, streams and springs. Iao Valley is located in Wailuku, one of Maui's most important political centers, many battles took place here. Wailuku translates as the "waters of destruction" referring to its history of battles and floods.
Distant view from the North Shore.
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