While Hong Kong is known for its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, it also offers an abundance of breathtaking hikes and nature trails that are perfect for adventure seekers. In this guide, we’ll take you off the beaten path and introduce you to some of Hong Kong’s lesser-known hiking trails. From panoramic vistas to lush forests, these hidden gems are perfect for escaping the city’s hustle and bustle and immersing yourself in the great outdoors.
Lantau Trail Section 12: Pui O to Mui Wo
Introduction: Lantau Trail Section 12 is a hidden gem that offers a unique coastal hiking experience on Lantau Island, the largest island in Hong Kong. Connecting the charming village of Pui O with the ferry pier at Mui Wo, this picturesque trail boasts a combination of pristine beaches, dense woodlands, and stunning vistas. If you’re looking to venture off the beaten path and explore Hong Kong‘s great outdoors, Lantau Trail Section 12 is the perfect choice.
Trail Overview:
- Distance: 9.5 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated time: 3-4 hours
Starting Point: Pui O Beach Begin your hike at Pui O Beach, known for its beautiful black sand and tranquil atmosphere. Spend some time exploring the beach, taking in the views of the South China Sea, and watching the local water buffalo roam the area.
Mangrove Forest and Ham Tin Village: After leaving Pui O Beach, you’ll enter a mangrove forest, a unique ecosystem that’s home to a variety of wildlife. The trail then takes you through Ham Tin Village, a traditional Lantau Island village where you can witness the authentic rural life of Hong Kong.
Chi Ma Wan Peninsula: The trail continues along the coast, providing you with stunning sea views as you hike through the Chi Ma Wan Peninsula. This part of the trail is relatively flat, allowing you to enjoy the scenery as you make your way towards Mui Wo.
Ascending to Lo Yan Shan: The final part of the trail involves a moderate ascent to the summit of Lo Yan Shan, which stands at an altitude of 295 meters. From the peak, you’ll have panoramic views of Lantau Island, Pui O Beach, and the surrounding areas. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking vistas.
Ending Point: Mui Wo As you descend from Lo Yan Shan, the trail will lead you into Mui Wo, a picturesque town with a rich history. Here, you can explore the local shops, grab a bite to eat, or relax on the beach before catching a ferry back to Central or Tung Chung.
Tips for Hikers:
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the hike.
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip as the trail may be slippery in some areas.
- Check the weather forecast before you start your hike, as the trail may be more challenging in wet conditions.
- Keep an eye out for water buffalo, but maintain a safe distance and do not approach them.
Conclusion: Lantau Trail Section 12 offers a unique and picturesque hiking experience that showcases the natural beauty of Hong Kong‘s largest island. From the tranquil beaches to the stunning vistas atop Lo Yan Shan, this lesser-known trail is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Introduction: If you’re seeking a moderately challenging hike with a rewarding destination, look no further than the Tai Mo Shan Waterfall Hike. This hidden gem takes you through verdant woodlands, past tranquil streams, and up to the base of a majestic, multi-tiered waterfall. At 957 meters, Tai Mo Shan is Hong Kong’s highest peak, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a memorable hiking experience.
Trail Overview:
- Distance: 7 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated time: 4-5 hours
Starting Point: Tai Mo Shan Country Park Begin your hike at the entrance of Tai Mo Shan Country Park, located near Route Twisk. Follow the signs for the Tai Mo Shan Lookout and Rotary Park, which will lead you along a paved road that gradually ascends towards the peak.
Rhododendron Woodland and Mountain Streams: As you continue to ascend, the trail will take you through a lush rhododendron woodland, where you can enjoy the vibrant colors and fragrances of the native flora. Be sure to keep an eye out for the many mountain streams that cross the path, providing a serene soundtrack to your hike.
Tai Mo Shan Lookout: Before reaching the waterfall, you’ll come across the Tai Mo Shan Lookout, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Tsuen Wan and Tsing Yi areas. Take a moment to catch your breath and appreciate the stunning vista before continuing on your journey.
The Waterfall: The final stretch of the hike involves navigating a series of steep, rocky steps that lead to the base of the Tai Mo Shan Waterfall. This majestic cascade is a hidden treasure and a true testament to the natural beauty of Hong Kong. Be sure to take your time exploring the waterfall and its surrounding area, as the peaceful atmosphere and soothing sounds of cascading water make for a perfect rest stop.
Descending and Ending Point: After enjoying the waterfall, retrace your steps and carefully descend back to Tai Mo Shan Country Park. If you’re looking to extend your adventure, consider exploring the nearby hiking trails or visiting the nearby Ng Tung Chai Waterfalls.
Tips for Hikers:
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes with good grip, as the trail can be slippery and rocky in some areas.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the hike.
- Check the weather forecast before you start, as the trail may be more difficult in wet conditions.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views and the majestic waterfall.
Conclusion: The Tai Mo Shan Waterfall Hike offers a unique and rewarding hiking experience that showcases the natural beauty of Hong Kong’s highest peak. With its lush woodlands, tranquil streams, and breathtaking waterfall, this moderately challenging trail is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Introduction: For those seeking a challenging hike with stunning coastal views, the Ap Lei Chau to Ap Lei Pai Coastal Hike is a perfect choice. Located on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, this lesser-known trail offers panoramic views of the South China Sea and the surrounding islands. The trail’s steep inclines and narrow paths make it a challenging hike, but the breathtaking scenery and sense of accomplishment make it well worth the effort.
Trail Overview:
- Distance: 5 km
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Estimated time: 3-4 hours
Starting Point: Lei Tung MTR Station Begin your hike at Lei Tung MTR Station and make your way towards Ap Lei Chau Main Street. Follow the road until you reach the Ap Lei Chau Wind Tower Park, where you’ll find the start of the Ap Lei Chau Nature Trail.
Ap Lei Chau Nature Trail: The first section of the hike takes you along the Ap Lei Chau Nature Trail, which offers picturesque views of Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter and the South China Sea. As you make your way along the well-maintained path, you’ll be treated to a variety of native flora and fauna, as well as several informative signboards detailing the area’s history and ecology.
Ascending Ap Lei Chau Peak: From the nature trail, the hike becomes more challenging as you start the steep ascent to the summit of Ap Lei Chau Peak (196 meters). The climb can be demanding, with uneven steps and rocky terrain, but the panoramic views from the summit make it all worthwhile.
Descending to the Ap Lei Pai Tombolo: After enjoying the views from the peak, carefully descend towards the tombolo connecting Ap Lei Chau to Ap Lei Pai. The narrow strip of land can be submerged during high tide, so it’s essential to check the tide tables before embarking on your hike.
Ap Lei Pai Lighthouse and Ending Point: Once you’ve crossed the tombolo, continue along the trail as it winds around the coast of Ap Lei Pai, eventually leading you to the small lighthouse that marks the end of the hike. Take a moment to appreciate the stunning coastal views and the sense of accomplishment before retracing your steps to Ap Lei Chau.
Tips for Hikers:
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes with good grip, as the trail can be steep and rocky in some areas.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the hike.
- Check the tide tables before starting the hike to ensure a safe crossing of the tombolo.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views and unique landscapes along the trail.
Conclusion: The Ap Lei Chau to Ap Lei Pai Coastal Hike offers a challenging yet rewarding experience, showcasing Hong Kong’s stunning coastal landscapes and natural beauty. With its panoramic views of the South China Sea and unique geological features, this lesser-known trail is a must-visit for experienced hikers and adventurers looking for a challenging and scenic excursion.
Introduction: Situated within the Pat Sin Leng Country Park, the Pat Sin Leng Nature Trail is a hidden gem that offers a serene hiking experience amidst Hong Kong’s rich biodiversity. This easy to moderate trail is perfect for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and families, as it winds through dense forests and offers panoramic views of Plover Cove Reservoir and the surrounding countryside. Embark on this tranquil journey to discover the beauty of Hong Kong‘s natural landscapes and wildlife.
Trail Overview:
- Distance: 4.5 km
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Estimated time: 2-3 hours
Starting Point: Hok Tau Reservoir Begin your hike at Hok Tau Reservoir, a picturesque spot known for its calm waters and idyllic scenery. Follow the signs to the Pat Sin Leng Nature Trail, which starts at the eastern end of the reservoir.
Entering the Forest and Wildlife Encounters: As you enter the forest, you’ll be greeted by a diverse range of flora and fauna, including native tree species, ferns, and wildflowers. Keep an eye out for rare bird species and butterflies as you enjoy the soothing sounds of the forest and the cool shade provided by the trees.
Plover Cove Reservoir Viewpoint: About halfway through the hike, you’ll reach a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Plover Cove Reservoir, a stunning man-made lake that serves as a major source of freshwater for Hong Kong. Take a moment to enjoy the breathtaking vista and snap some photos before continuing on your journey.
Pat Sin Leng Visitor Center: Towards the end of the trail, you’ll come across the Pat Sin Leng Visitor Center, an informative resource that provides details about the area’s ecology, history, and hiking trails. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the diverse wildlife and landscapes of the Pat Sin Leng Country Park.
Ending Point: Wu Kau Tang Road The trail concludes at Wu Kau Tang Road, where you can catch a bus or taxi back to your starting point. Alternatively, you can continue exploring the park by following one of the many other hiking trails in the area.
Tips for Hikers:
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip, as the trail may be slippery and uneven in some areas.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the hike.
- Use insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects.
- Bring binoculars if you’re interested in birdwatching or getting a closer look at the diverse wildlife.
Conclusion: The Pat Sin Leng Nature Trail offers a serene and picturesque hiking experience, showcasing the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes of Hong Kong’s Pat Sin Leng Country Park. This easy to moderate trail is perfect for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and families looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the tranquility of Hong Kong’s great outdoors.
Introduction: The Ma On Shan Family Walk is an ideal choice for families, beginner hikers, and those looking for a leisurely outdoor experience. This short, scenic route offers stunning views of the Sai Kung Peninsula and Tolo Harbour while providing an accessible and enjoyable hike for all ages and fitness levels. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hong Kong’s countryside as you embark on this relaxing family walk.
Trail Overview:
- Distance: 3.2 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated time: 1-2 hours
Starting Point: Ma On Shan BBQ Site Begin your walk at the Ma On Shan BBQ Site, a popular spot for family picnics and gatherings. Follow the signs to the Ma On Shan Family Walk, which starts just behind the barbecue area.
Paved Path and Lush Greenery: The Ma On Shan Family Walk is a well-maintained, paved path that winds its way through the lush greenery of the Ma On Shan Country Park. The trail is shaded by trees and offers a comfortable, gradual incline, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Spectacular Views of Sai Kung Peninsula and Tolo Harbour: As you continue along the trail, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Sai Kung Peninsula and Tolo Harbour. These stunning vistas provide a perfect backdrop for photos and offer a serene atmosphere in which to enjoy the natural beauty of Hong Kong’s countryside.
Children’s Playground and Fitness Stations: Along the route, you’ll come across a children’s playground and several fitness stations, providing opportunities for play and exercise for the whole family. Take some time to enjoy these amenities as you make your way along the trail.
Ending Point: Ma On Shan Park The Ma On Shan Family Walk concludes at Ma On Shan Park, a beautiful green space featuring a variety of facilities, including a large playground, a jogging track, a peacock garden, and a sensory garden. This is the perfect spot to relax, have a picnic, or let the kids burn off any remaining energy before heading home.
Tips for Families:
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip, as the trail may be slippery in some areas.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the walk.
- Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself and your children from the sun.
- Consider bringing a stroller for younger children, as the paved path is well-suited for stroller use.
Conclusion: The Ma On Shan Family Walk offers a relaxing and accessible outdoor experience for families and beginner hikers alike. With its stunning views of the Sai Kung Peninsula and Tolo Harbour, well-maintained path, and family-friendly facilities, this easy trail is perfect for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Hong Kong’s countryside without embarking on a strenuous hike.
