Hiking Trails in Hong Kong

THE 10 BEST Hong Kong Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails in Hong Kong

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  • TheMinistryofCommonSense
    Singapore, Singapore163 contributions
    really fantastic walk across the top of HK- take some good comfortable shoes- but worth it for the views. Thoroughly enjoyable and will be back to experience again. Take water!!!
    Written 28 May 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • schmidtmg
    Switzerland1,027 contributions
    I had not been to Lamma since 2011 , before the tragic ferry disaster... I went back on a recent sunny Sunday and took the ferry from Central to Yung Shue Wan, Yung Shue Wan is busy, and busy with expats who seem to reside here. There is a French bakery with fresh (i.e. crispy crust) baguette, and the - wonderful - Lamma Vinyl Record Store, a treasure trove for fans of old vinyls. The owner is very helpful trying to help you locate items, including in other shops on HK Island or Kowloon. The hike from Yung Shue Wan to Sok Kwu Wan is about 75 minutes - halfway through there is a wonderful beach. Sok Kwu Wan has the better seafood restaurants and stands with locally produced XO sauces and shrimp paste. I took the ferry from Sok Kwu Wan back to Central...
    Written 1 May 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BradJill
    Hong Kong, China157,255 contributions
    This is one of Hong Kong's famous long-distance trails, stretching 70 kilometers across and around Lantau Island, starting and stopping at Mui Wo. The trail is partitioned into 12 sections with a range of distance and degree of challenge. It skirts coastline, mountain ridges and crosses several of HK's tallest peaks.

    There are distance markers throughout the trail around every 500 metres. The trail is well marked and easy to follow. Probably the most famous sections are #2 (Nam Shan to Pak Kung Au) taking in the strenuous hike up to Sunset Peak and #3 (Pak Kung Au to Ngong Ping 360 village) similarly taking in Lantau Peak which is also referred to as Sunrise Peak. These are some of the highest peaks in Hong Kong, affording hikers outstanding views.

    Note: You will find public toilets at the start/finish of the trail sections as well and bus stops - transportation to/from Mui Wo or Tung Chung, depending on where you are accessing various trail sections. The trails that scale Lantau's peaks are exposed to the weather elements so do come prepared with adequate hiking wear, sunscreen, hats as well as sufficient food and water for your hike.
    Written 28 April 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BradJill
    Hong Kong, China157,255 contributions
    MacLehose Trail Section 7 is the shortest of the 10 stages, covering approximately 6.4 km between the Shing Mun Reservoir Dam and the Lead Mine Pass. The trail has an intimidating initial climb of 1000 steps in the first 1.7 km until you reach Needle Hill (532m), one of the sharpest hikes in Hong Kong.

    At the Needle Hill summit you are presented with outstanding panoramic views when sky conditions are favourable. You can see Sha Tin, Ma On Shan and Tai Po to the east and northeast. Lion Rock is directly south of you and views back west towards the Shing Mun Reservoir and city beyond are very nice as well.

    From Needle Hill, you proceed until you make another ascend up Grassy Hill (647m) for more impressive views. From here you make way to the Lead Mine Pass through grassy hillsides and forest. From there the trail ends at the campsite and rest facilities. You can hike north from here along the Wilson Trail Section 7 to Yeun Tun Ha village. From there you can take light green minibuses to Tai Po Market MTR Station from where you can return to the city.

    Alternatively, serious hikers planning to combine Section 7 and 8 can simply continue onward from Lead Mine Pass along Section 8 which transects the Tai Mo Shan Country Park, taking in Hong Kong's highest peak, Tai Mo Shan (957m).
    Written 24 November 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Leonhkny
    Hong Kong, China12,983 contributions
    Tai Mo Shan is the highest mountain in Hong Kong. Climbing the often-steep trails has become a rite of passage for many. The view of New Territories from the summit is unbeatable. Air is also super fresh. A start from the Tsuen Wan side will be a more convenient option.
    Written 30 October 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Moisy99
    42 contributions
    A wonderful and interesting hiking trail suitable for all ages. It is well marked on easy walking terrain. The trail takes you through a few small villages before concluding at a seaside village where there are lovely seafood restaurants. It is a point-to-point trail and if you do not want to walk back, you can catch a ferry back to Hong Kong Island.
    Written 22 April 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BradJill
    Hong Kong, China157,255 contributions
    There are numerous ways to visit Victoria Peak from the Central area, one being the Old Peak Road, a preferred walking path for those interested in getting a bit of exercise by walking up to the Peak.

    The path starts just beyond the HK Zoological & Botanical Gardens following the street that winds up through parts of the Mid-Levels. In short time, the path becomes closed to vehicular traffic. From that point forward, it is for pedestrians only. You will pass some one of the remaining Boundary Stones and come across a handful of clearings in the trees, providing views of the HK Island skyscrapers and eventually Victoria Harbour.

    Allow 30-45 minutes depending on your fitness and the amount of rest or photo stops you intend to make. It is a steady uphill climb with few flat areas so best to be in decent shape before giving this one a try. Before you know it, you will be approaching the Gap where the Victoria Peak attractions and circular walks like Lugard Road are found.
    Written 24 April 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Joe
    Budapest, Hungary3,354 contributions
    Cape D’aguilar is a cape near Shek O named after a former General and Governor of Hong Kong. It’s an easy trail that hugs the coast line and allows you to get close to the sea and breath in the fresh air, and provides many fantastic photo opportunities along the way.

    After a short bus journey, we arrived fresh and raring to go.  Within a few minutes of walking we are greeted by sensational views of the ocean below us, we were stunned!  And of course, this meant pictures and more pictures! Soon we were greeted by a vast open space with nothing but nature surrounding us. Huge swathes of greenery and the clear blue ocean. It was bliss.

    Turning right towards the ocean, we detoured to a cave. Possibly used by pirates or smugglers in bygone eras it was a breath-taking display of nature’s power. The waves crashing through the crevasse both deafening and awe inspiring. Was pretty magnificent.

    Next it was onto the ocean and a spot of rock climbing.  Just listening to the waves and watching the sea, I was entranced and taken far away.  If I closed my eyes I could have been anywhere.  It was awesome to get so close to the ocean, exactly what was needed to clear our minds and lift our spirits.  We spent some time just sitting and relaxing, some even sketching the picturesque surroundings.

    After many many photos on the rocks and next to the sea we spotted another cave. Crab cave because it kind of looks like a crab…. a bit…  you can check it out for yourselves to see if you agree or not.

    Lighthouse was next on the agenda. The oldest in HK it dates back to 1870. Small and quaint, it would never be used in today’s time but was quite an achievement back in the day.

    Just over the horizon is a disused military bunker, no doubt used to keep a close watch on the sea. Long since destroyed either by nature or by war, the foundations stand proud as a reminder of what was. It was here we got the best view of the day, the expansive clifs, the thundering ocean, the lighthouse looking over, and the beautiful sky ahead.
    Written 10 October 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Carmen Santiago
    Mountain View, CA151 contributions
    An excellent trail, with incredible views of Tai Tam Reservoir, and a little bit later close views of Central and Tai Koo. From the Wong Nai Chung Gap trail, there is a 600 steps steep climb, but other than that it is all mostly gentle and should be accessible to all ages. Climbing up from the Tai Koo side is a good idea. The trail can get a bit tricky after mount butler as you hop on the Wilson trail, keep your GPS and you'll be fine. Of course, take plenty of water with you.
    Written 3 February 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BradJill
    Hong Kong, China157,255 contributions
    Sharp Peak is one of my favourite day hikes in Hong Kong. Situated in the middle of Sai Kung East Country park, this is one of the most dramatic peaks in the territory and a very popular destination for local hikers, walkers and trail runners.

    There are a handful of routes up Sharp Peak, we recently took the circular route starting at Pak Tam Au, hiking east before ascending the mountain. From the summit, you descend to the east, make your way to a series of beaches on the coast before circling back west to Pak Tam Au. Views from the summit are grand and trail section between Sharp Peak and the beaches produces remarkable scenery, particularly when sky conditions are favourable.

    All and all, this circular route is around 15 km with several steep ascends. Most of the trail is exposed to the sun so make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat. Sufficient water, snacks and good footwear are also important.

    Note: there are a couple of stores/restaurants at the Ham Tin beach where you can purchase water, drinks and grab a bite to eat. You can also book speed jets back to Sai Kung village from here. This can be really helpful if you want to cut the hike short once you reach the beaches. However, the boats don't operate when sea conditions are too rough, something to keep in mind if the weather is not good.
    Written 5 January 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Cecilia W
    Gothenburg, Sweden78 contributions
    This was really an amazing place. The green color of the reservoir water is absolutely stunning.
    We went for a hike that took about 2,5 h. Some stairs but most of the time very flat.
    Next to the stunning nature scene the thievy but cute apes were an experience.
    It's quite easy and fast to go to the reservoir by mini bus 82.
    Written 26 May 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BradJill
    Hong Kong, China157,255 contributions
    One of the interesting ways to walk up to the Peak involves the Central Green Trail. This roughly 2km hike begins as the Tramway Path, a walking stretch alongside the Victoria Peak Tram line just south of the Lower Peak Terminus. It ascends upward next to and near the line until you reach Magazine Gap stone arch bridge. There are some spots to stop and take pictures of the Tram, which is interesting now that the new 6th generation trains have arrived and are now in use.

    From Magazine Gap bridge you have a couple of path options, I like to make way west to the Old Peak Road which then winds upward until you reach Victoria Gap, the main sightseeing location at Victoria Peak. There are quite a few windows through the trees as you ascend providing views of the Hong Kong Skyline and eventually parts of Victoria Harbour as you proceed upward to higher elevation points.

    The walk upward is steep and takes around 45-60 minutes depending on your fitness and how many times you stop for rests or to take pictures. The entire way is on paved road, sidewalk and footpaths so basic tennis shoes are fine. There is a public toilet facility around 60% the way up the Old Peak Road path. You'll find additional facilities at the two malls at Victoria Peak once you finish the walk.

    Note: If you still have energy once you are the top, do take the flat and easy Luggard Road walk to the west. There you will find some of the finest views of Victoria Harbour with large panoramic stretches that above the tree lines. These views are amazing and cost you nothing to see compared to the high prices of accessing the viewing deck of the nearby Peak Tower.
    Written 28 January 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BradJill
    Hong Kong, China157,255 contributions
    This is an easy, family-friendly trail through the Tai Tam Valley and country park that passes four reservoirs and takes in numerous waterworks structures along the route. The trail is around 5km and can be a complete leisurely walk downhill from north to south or a nice like uphill exercise walk from south to north.

    There are facilities at the two ends of the trail and several BBQ areas near the north and south entrance and southern most reservoir called Tai Tam Tuk. As you make way along the trail, there are 22 different Declared Monuments in the form of Waterworks structures including delightful masonry bridges, dams, value houses, pumping stations and workmen's quarters. There are 10 information panels along the route to help you know what you are looking at as well.

    Overall, it is a decent little hike either way. Go south for a leisurely stroll, go north instead if you want a bit of exercise. If you visit on sunny and clear days, the waterworks structures and reservoirs look really nice.
    Written 20 November 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BradJill
    Hong Kong, China157,255 contributions
    The Hong Kong Trail is one of the four Big Trails in Hong Kong and was inaugurated in 1985. It is around 50 km in total distance and made up of a series of 8 stages from west to east, taking in various mountain, forest and seaside terrain and landscapes.

    Because of the extensive network of transportation, it is very easy to pick and choose stages that you want to hike and to make way to trailheads and back home (or hotel) when hiking the Hong Kong Trail.

    The trail includes some popular hiking spots including a couple of the most frequented trails in Hong Kong such as Stage 1 (The Peak) and Stage 8 (Dragon's Back). Other stages provide fine hiking and scenery. I enjoy the stage 4-6 trails covering the area from Wong Nai Gap to Mount Parker. There are heritage and war era relics in the area as well as peaks and viewpoints that easily rival the famous Peak at Victoria Gap but with a fraction of other visitors and crowds.

    As with all trails, do be mindful of weather and prepare adequate water, snacks and footwear before setting off. Also best to have some familiarity with transportation routes, knowing bus and mini-bus routes between trail sections. Taxis are relatively easy to locate or contact throughout Hong Kong Island. HKTaxi hailing app can be useful if you want to contact one for quick pick up. The CityMapper app can help you with bus routes and timing information while Hiking Trail HK App can providing the exact trail section routes to help you make way from one stage to the next.
    Written 23 July 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Joe
    Budapest, Hungary3,354 contributions
    High Junk peak is not one of the biggest in HK, at only 334M it is quite scalable under normal circumstances.  it is however considered one of the most treacherous peaks in HK, due to its sharp slippery incline, both going up and down

    From the peak you get gorgeous 360 degree views of Clear Water Bay and its surrounding areas, well worth the climb to the top.

    High Junk Peak trail itself is not so challenging, with a gradual incline of trail and steps it doesnt provide much of a challenge until the final ascent itself.  Most of the trail is the standard HK style dirt paths we know and love.  As always with hikes in HK it is well signposted

    The last few meteres below the summit is where it become difficutl, its a stepp incline which needs you do go on all fours almost to scramble to the top.  It is slippery so go slow and steady

    Although the summit of High Junk Peak is wider than it looks, it can be a bit intimidating for those with vertigo. There’s a narrow strip of land on the top that has no obstructions on either side. And that’s what really makes High Junk Peak a pleasure to conquer

    Once you’re done admiring the gorgeous views, come down from slope facing Clear Water Bay. The slope is steep, so be careful.

    Once you reach the foot of the hill, you’ll notice a 3-point junction. The short path on the left takes you down to Clear Water Bay Road. From here you can catch a bus back to Kwun Tong, Tsuen Kwan O, or Diamond Hill.

    You could also end the the hike at Po Toi O, a small fishing village in Clearwater Bay.  at the end of this trail you’ll get to a main road, a short distance from there is a mini bus stop which can take you back to an MTR.  Or you can have lunch in a local seafood restaurant.

    Written 26 September 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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