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	©1996-2001

The Maunawili Demonstration Trail, unofficially know as the Pali Trail, is one of the most beautiful hikes on Oahu. Extending all of the way along the base of the Ko'olaus from the Pali Highway to Waimanalo, the Pali trail is over 9 miles long, plus or minus a few because of other access trails you must take. But it is well worth the hike.

This trail is the only way that I know of that allows you to see the back side Mount Olomana and extreme close-ups of the Ko'olaus. The Trail winds around in and out of the valleys and ridges at the foot of the mountains. It crosses numerous streams and creek beds, and even passes a few waterfalls, depending on the weather. Spectacular views of Kailua are available before you pass behind Mt. Olomana, and once you pass behind this magnificent peak, even more exceptional views are available of Waimanalo and Waimanalo Bay.

The trail's condition varies as drastically as the weather on the windward side. Depending on how much it has rained in the previous days, the trail can be anywhere from dry and hard packed to a mud bog. For the first 2 or 3 miles, the trail is extremely smooth and easy to hike, thanks to work on it by the Sierra Club. It even has steps placed in certain spots to ensure an easy trip and a wooden walkway for the especially rainy days. But after that, it gets a little rougher. The Sierra Club did clear the entire trail, but they have not finished it off as they have on the Pali side. You could easily wear tennis shoes for the first couple of miles, but after that, hiking boots are strongly recommended. The trail, at this point, is visible but rough and mostly overgrown (see picture) because of the lack of hikers. But the rewards are worth the effort.

The are plenty of spots along the trail perfect for rest stops, and most of them come with a wonderful view. Obviously, there are no bathrooms or trash cans along the trail, at the beginning, or at the end. Anything you bring with you has to be carried back out. There is also no water at either end, and none along the trail save a few streams and this water tower near the beginning, so bring plenty along.

Animals along the trail? The Pali trail has a few. Mosquitos are usually not a problem, so long as you do not take a rest break in one of the muddier areas. But you might want to bring along some bug-repellent anyway. Birds are everywhere, especially in the forest areas (see pictures below) of the trail. You may see the occasional mongoose or lizard, but probably not the wild boars that have been seen up there. Other than that, the only other living things that you will see will be the other hikers.