5 Amazing Hikes in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is really a great city to travel thanks to its variety of activities and culture background. Its history with China and England makes it a unique city. Curious travellers, this is your playground !
In this article, we would like to focus on one specific activity you can do in Hong Kong : Hiking. The city is surrounded by mountains and hills that makes it a an amazing place to practice your sport while enjoying wonderful landscapes.
Here is our selection:
Dragon's Back
You cannot miss this one. Maybe the most famous hike in Hong Kong, the Dragon’s Back Trail, situated in Shek O Country Park, attracts sports enthusiasts with its exhilarating hiking experience. This trail, similar to a dragon’s spine, offers a dynamic route for those seeking a fitness challenge with stunning landscapes.
On the map you can see the full trip:
Official website: https://www.discoverhongkong.com/fr/explore/great-outdoor/dragons-back.html
Technical information:
– Distance: The Dragon’s Back Trail is approximately 8.5 kilometers long.
– Difficulty: The trail is considered to be of moderate difficulty, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers, including beginners and more experienced trekkers.
– Duration: On average, it takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete the hike, depending on your pace and the time spent enjoying the viewpoints.
– Accessibility:
1. Heading to Shek O: From Exit A of Shau Kei Wan MTR Station, walk to the Shau Kei Wan Bus Terminus. Take Bus 9 or the red minibus with the “Shek O” sign to the To Tei Wan stop on Shek O Road.
2. Departure from Big Wave Bay: Take the red minibus with the “Shau Kei Wan” sign or a taxi from Big Wave Bay to return to Shau Kei Wan.
Our additional tip : At the end of the hike you will arrive to “Big Wave Beach”. If you are lucky, you will have nice waves. Take the opportunity to practice some surf. There are people renting surfboards. Great for beginners.
Lantau Peak
Lantau Peak Hike, on Lantau Island, promises a challenging ascent to the second-highest peak of Hong Kong. Boasting breathtaking vistas, it’s renowned for sunrise or sunset views, encompassing the iconic Big Buddha and serene surrounding islands.
Technical information:
– Elevation: Lantau Peak is the second-highest peak in Hong Kong, standing at approximately 934 meters above sea level.
– Distance: The hiking trail to Lantau Peak is approximately 7 kilometers one way.
– Difficulty: The hike is considered moderately difficult, involving steep ascents and descents. It’s advisable for hikers with some experience.
– Duration: On average, the hike to Lantau Peak takes around 2 to 3 hours one way (5-6 hours roundtrip), depending on the hiker’s pace and the chosen trail.
– Accessibility:
1. Get to Tung Chung: Reach Tung Chung by taking the MTR (Tung Chung Line)
2. Get to Ngong Ping Village :
- Cable Car Option: From Tung Chung, you can take the Ngong Ping 360 cable. This scenic ride offers breathtaking views of Lantau Island.
- Bus Option: Alternatively, you can take bus number 23 from Tung Chung. This is a more budget-friendly option compared to the cable car.
Once you arrive at Ngong Ping Village, you’ll find the starting point for the Lantau Peak hike. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions.
Lion Rock
Lion Rock Hike, located in Lion Rock Country Park, offers a thrilling ascent to a prominent ridge with unparalleled views of Kowloon, Hong Kong Island, and the New Territories. A favorite among locals, it blends a challenging climb with stunning urban panoramas.
Technical information:
– Elevation: The summit of Lion Rock stands at approximately 495 meters above sea level.
– Distance: The main Lion Rock hike trail is around 5 kilometers round trip.
– Difficulty: The hike is considered moderately challenging, with steep sections and rocky terrain.
– Duration: On average, the hike to Lion Rock takes around 2 to 3 hours round trip.
– Accessibility:
- Take the MTR to either Wong Tai Sin Station (Exit B3) or Diamond Hill Station (Exit C2).
- From Wong Tai Sin Station, you can take public minibus 1A to Lion Rock Country Park.
- From Diamond Hill Station, you can take public minibus 1 to Lion Rock Country Park.
High Island Reservoir East Dam to Sai Wan Pavilion
The High Island Reservoir East Dam to Sai Wan Pavilion hike offers a picturesque journey through lush landscapes and pristine beaches. This moderately challenging trail showcases stunning views of the turquoise High Island Reservoir, creating a delightful experience for nature enthusiasts.
Technical information:
– Distance: The distance of the hike is approximately 10 kilometers one way.
– Difficulty: The trail is considered moderately challenging, with uneven terrain and some steep sections.
– Duration: On average, the hike takes around 3 to 4 hours one way.
– Accessibility:
The hike typically starts at the High Island Reservoir East Dam and ends at Sai Wan Pavilion.
1. Use the MTR to reach Choi Hung Station (Kwun Tong Line).
2. From Choi Hung, take bus 1A to Sai Kung Bus Terminus.
3. From Sai Kung Bus Terminus, take a taxi to High Island Reservoir East Dam. Alternatively, take a green minibus to Pak Tam Chung and then transfer to another green minibus to High Island Reservoir.
Suicide Cliff
Last recommendation, our favorite, the Suicide Cliff, or Kowloon Peak, is a challenging yet rewarding hike known for its steep ascents and stunning views of Kowloon and Victoria Harbour. Exercise caution, wear proper gear, and consider local guidance for this demanding trail.
Technical information:
– Elevation: The elevation of Kowloon Peak, where Suicide Cliff is situated, is approximately 602 meters above sea level.
– Distance: The trail distance can vary depending on the specific route taken, but it’s generally around 7-8 kilometers round trip.
– Difficulty:
- The hike is considered difficult, involving steep ascents, narrow paths, and challenging sections, especially leading to Suicide Cliff.
- Note : Check the weather forecast before starting the hike. Rain can make the trail slippery, and fog may impact visibility.
– Duration: The hike can take around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the pace of the hiker and the chosen trail.
– Accessibility:
2. From Ngau Chi Wan, follow the trail that leads up to Kowloon Peak.
We hope that this selection of Hikes gave you some ideas to start. We recommend to follow and contact the Instagram account “ddhiking“. Managed by local Hong Kong people, they will guide you even more into your wishes.
Enjoy your hikes !