Given the high-pressure work and lifestyle in Hong Kong, many locals enjoy hiking on weekends. The hiking facilities here are well-developed and well-maintained:
• Distance Posts: Installed every 500 meters along trails, these posts are numbered to help hikers calculate distances or provide precise locations for emergencies.
MacLehose Trail Section 2
The MacLehose Trail frequently ranks among Hong Kong’s top 10 must-visit destinations. Spanning from mountains to sea, its second section is often regarded as the most scenic. If you’re new to hiking in Hong Kong, start with Section 2 of this trail for a journey filled with breathtaking views at every turn.
• Overview:
Named after Sir Murray MacLehose, a former governor of Hong Kong, this 100-kilometer trail starts at Pak Tam Chung in Sai Kung and ends in Tuen Mun. It is divided into 10 sections, with Section 2 being 13 kilometers long, covering:
Sai Wan Shan → Tai Long Au → Tai Long Village → Chek Keng → Pak Tam Au.
• Highlights:
• Sai Wan Shan: Challenging but offers increasingly panoramic views as you ascend. From the summit, you can see the bay below and High Junk Peak to the north.
• Tai Long Wan: A crescent-shaped beach with powdery white sand and gentle waves – a stunning reward for your hike.
• Ham Tin Wan: Known for its clear waters and fine sand, it boasts the longest shoreline among the many bays here.
• Tai Long Au: A picturesque coastal trail where you can see the ocean’s layered waves at their most vivid.
• Navigation: The trail has multiple forks near Tai Long Village. Combine trail signs with mobile navigation for guidance.
• Tips:
• The trail lacks shade, so choose a sunny day for optimal views, but bring ample sun protection to avoid sunburn.
• The lush forested path near the end offers a shaded, tranquil finale.
Dragon’s Back
The Dragon’s Back Trail was named Asia’s best urban hiking trail by Time Magazine, and this accolade alone makes it worth a visit.
• Overview:
Part of the Hong Kong Trail (Stage 8), Dragon’s Back stretches from Shek O Peak to Wan Cham Shan, covering 20 kilometers across the Cape D’Aguilar Peninsula. Its undulating ridges resemble the spine of a dragon, giving the trail its name.
• Highlights
• Begin with sweeping views of Tai Tam Bay and the Stanley Peninsula.
• The trail’s peak offers stunning 360-degree views, including Hong Kong Island’s eastern coastline, Shek O, and Big Wave Bay.
• Descend through forested paths to Big Wave Bay, where you can relax and enjoy the sea after your hike.
Lamma Island
Among all Hong Kong’s outlying islands, Lamma Island is the most famous. Often featured in romantic scenes of TV dramas, it offers a charming mix of nature and culture.
• Overview:
The Family Walk spans 6 kilometers between Sok Kwu Wan and Yung Shue Wan, with well-paved paths making it ideal for beginners. The route takes about two hours, with plenty of scenic photo opportunities along the way.
• Highlights:
• Starting at Yung Shue Wan, experience a relaxed, European atmosphere.
• The Family Walk is flat and family-friendly, leading to the more traditional fishing village culture of Sok Kwu Wan.
• A one-day trip lets you enjoy the island’s dual charm of lush landscapes and unique cultural vibes.
Lion Rock
The Lion Rock Spirit has long been a symbol of Hong Kong’s resilience. Legend has it that the lion was sent from heaven to subdue nine dragons, which once wreaked havoc in the area. Eight were conquered, forming Pat Sin Leng, while the last was pinned beneath the lion’s foot, creating today’s Lion Rock.
• Overview:
Lion Rock, the natural boundary between Kowloon and the New Territories, stands about 500 meters high. With multiple trails leading to the summit, it is an accessible hike with a stunning payoff: panoramic views of Hong Kong’s urban landscape.
Other Notable Hiking Spots:
• Fei Ngo Shan (Suicide Cliff): A dramatic cliff often featured in TVB dramas.
• Lantau Peak: A popular sunrise-watching spot.
• Sunset Peak: Renowned for its breathtaking sunset views.
Hiking Tips:
1. Hike with Companions: It’s safer and more enjoyable to trek with friends. The trail markers, such as “M” for MacLehose Trail (e.g., M001), help measure distances.
2. Stick to Maintained Trails: Avoid venturing onto unmarked paths. During summer, avoid river routes due to the risk of flash floods.
3. Camping Rules: Camping and cooking are only allowed in designated areas within country parks.
4. Prepare Essentials: Bring enough water and snacks; not all trails have refreshment stops. Don’t forget sun protection!