Some friends and I reopened this Hauula trail last year and last Saturday, Feb 6, a group of us went back to look at the native plants and the native views. The day was very windy and mostly overcast, but not a drop of rain fell on us. I would encourage OHEers to try this trail now. We added some ribbons, too, though the route is obvious.
Access is easy.
Just go up the Hauula Papali Loop trail, but do it counterclockwise instead of clockwise. When you get to the highest, farthest point of the loop trail, simply leave the standard, wide-cleared DLNR trail and head straight up the ridge. Ma'akua Gulch is on your right all the way as you ascend.