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The trail can be accessed from the lookout parking lot at the hairpin turn on the Pali highway. It can also be accessed via the Pali Lookout. People will often park their cars at the hairpin turn, hike in a few miles, and then back out again. If you do decide to hike all of the way to the end of the trail, and it is well worth it, make sure that someone is there to pick you up. Also, be sure to lock your car wherever you park it.

All these trail directions are assuming that you are starting on the Pali Highway side. Right after you start the trail, you will come upon a trail that goes off to your right, it will have 2X4's pegged into it, this trail goes to the Pali Lookout. From now until almost the end of the trail, you will encounter no other trails, except for a few short ridge line trails that branch out to spectacular views. One of these will go off to your left and up a pretty steep hill through a forest of strawberry-guava trees. Take it and you will be rewarded with one of the best views of Maunawili and Mt. Olomana on the Windward side.

Near the end of the hike, after crossing a few small streams, some pouring from small waterfalls (picture), the trail will cross what looks like an access road. To your right, there will be a steep trail with cut-in steps. This leads to the top of the ridge right under the massive power lines. From here, you have an exceptional view of Waimanalo. Back at the bottom, to the left, the road continues toward Olomana, this is just an access road for work crews. Go straight across the dirt road, squeeze between some poles and a "no horses" sign, and continue along the trail. Confused? Don't worry, the Hawaii State Trail and Access System signs will guide you to the right path. Some time later, you will come upon another road, go right on this road, down the hill. Further along, a trail will meet up with yours and will go back and off to the left towards Mt. Olomana. This is the Maunawili Ditch Trail. You may miss it because of it's position. Either way, continue straight along the trail you were on until you reach the end somewhere in the back area of Waimanalo. There will be a metal gate that should be unlocked; you might have to hop the fence. You may also notice that the sign at the end of the trail has a different name than at the beginning. This is because the last part you hiked was actually part of the Ditch Trail. After that, it is simply a matter of walking down the roads until you reach the highway.

This trail is truly one of the most beautiful, and certainly one of the longest, on Oahu. Avid hikers, nature lovers, mountain bikers, and children of all ages (though they may not be able to finish it) will love this trail. Experience it, and you will never regret it.