The beginning of the trail travels high along a narrow back ridge and offers truly lovely views into the Kalalau Valley as the clouds permit. Witness a grand reveal in the gaps of passing cloud of lush green valley and the blue Pacific flanked by towering peaks and cliffs. The trail passes through forest of Ohi'a trees, ferns, koa, and other native vegetation. After the first mile the Pihea Trail is covered mostly with boardwalk of long wooden planks covered in chicken wire for traction.

After approximately two miles there is a junction between the Pihea Trail and the Alaka'i Swamp Trail. Turn left and continue along the Alaka'i Swamp Trail to Kilohana Lookout. Descend a steep set of wooden stairs to a place where you cross Kawaikoi Stream. From there the trail ascends and follows a few narrow ridges that lead out onto a high plateau. Continue along the boardwalk as it hovers  over a continuous series of little bogs. In foggy weather, the visibility up here can be limited to 10 feet or less.   After traversing the plateau, there are a couple of small dips in the trail after which you break free onto the western edge of Wainiha Pali at Kilohana for a panoramic view of the entire North Shore from Wainiha Valley to the horseshoe-shaped Hanalei Bay.