TOP 5 Light Hiking Routes in Hong Kong – Experience a Different Side of HK

Hong Kong is a paradise for foodies and shoppers, but for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s also a hiking haven. Most hiking trails in Hong Kong are carefully planned and well-maintained, offering safety and clear signage. Not only are the views along the way stunning, but the trail markers are also easy to follow—perfect even for beginners who are new to the outdoors, allowing them to fully enjoy the joy of hiking. Here are some of the most worthwhile hiking routes in Hong Kong to experience.5hiking routes.

The MacLehose Trail is the most famous hiking path in Hong Kong. It starts at Pak Tam Chung in Sai Kung, winds around High Island Reservoir, and ends in Tuen Mun, spanning a total of10sections and approximately100kilometers. Sections 1 and 2 are the most suitable for a leisurely hike. Along the way, you can not only admire the unique hexagonal rock columns but also enjoy the breathtaking views of High Island Reservoir and Long Ke Wan. The vistas are expansive, and finishing these two sections may even make you forget the fatigue of walking as you immerse yourself completely in the beauty of nature.

Transportation:Take a taxi from Sai Kung Town Centre to the East Dam of High Island Reservoir (about 30 minutes). After your hike, you can take NR29 minibus or a taxi back to Sai Kung.

Victoria Peak is the best spot to take in Hong Kong’s night view, but walking along the Peak Circle Walk allows you to enjoy the city’s mesmerizing nightscape from multiple angles. This circular trail starts at Lugard Road near The Peak Tower and ends at Harlech Road, covering a distance of about 3.5 kilometers. Some sections of the trail even feature century-old structures. The best time to hike here is in the evening—before sunset, you can enjoy Hong Kong Island’s most beautiful dusk.

Route:Victoria Peak >> Lugard Road >> Lion Rock & Shing Mun Redoubt >> Harlech Road, about 3.5 kilometers

Transportation:Exit at J2 of Central Station on the MTR, walk to the Garden Road Lower Cable Car Terminus, then take the Peak Tram up the mountain. For the return trip, take the Peak Tram from The Peak Tower back down to the Garden Road Lower Cable Car Terminus in Central.

Part of Hong Kong Trail Section 8, Dragon’s Back is the mountain path between Tai Long Wan Shan (284m) and Cloudy Hill (266m). Though it’s a ridge trail, it’s not difficult to hike and offers 360-degree panoramic sea views. After descending, you can head to the famous Big Wave Bay for a swim—bring your swimsuit if you’re visiting in summer~

Route:Shek O Road near To Tei Wan Village >> Tai Long Wan Shan (Dragon’s Back) >> Shek O Country Park >> Ma Tong Au >> Big Wave Bay, about 8.5 kilometers

Transportation:From Shau Kei Wan Bus Terminus at Shau Kei Wan MTR Station Exit A3, take Bus 9 and get off at Shek O Road To Tei Wan Bus Stop—you’ll see the entrance to Dragon’s Back right after getting off. For the return trip, take Bus 9 from Shek O Village back to Shau Kei Wan Bus Terminus, which is next to Shau Kei Wan MTR Station.

The Family Walk is located on Lamma Island, starting from Yung Shue Wan and ending at Sok Kwu Wan. As the name suggests, it is a trail suitable for family members of all ages to enjoy together. Along the way, you can admire the charming European-style scenery of Lamma Island. Upon reaching the final destination, Sok Kwu Wan, you can also experience the traditional fishing village culture of Hong Kong. It’s worth mentioning that the seafood here offers great value for money—not only is it fresh, but it’s also much more affordable than in the city.

Route:Yung Shue Wan >> Tai Fung Power Station >> Hung Shing Yeh Beach >> Lo So Shing Beach >> Sok Kwu Wan, approximately 6 km

Transportation:From Exit E1 of Hong Kong Station on the MTR, walk through the International Finance Centre mall to Central Pier 4, then take a ferry to Yung Shue Wan. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes. For the return trip, take a ferry from Sok Kwu Wan Pier to Central, which takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

The MacLehose Trail spans approximately 70 km in total and consists of 12 sections. Among them, Section 3 from Pound Lane Pass to the summit of Phoenix Mountain is the best hiking trail to watch the sunrise over Phoenix Mountain. You can stay overnight at a hostel in Ngong Ping the night before your hike, and then head up the mountain early the next morning following the “Phoenix Sunrise Viewing” signs. Compared to the four trails mentioned above, this section is relatively more challenging and physically demanding, especially if you plan to hike in the early morning—you should be well prepared in advance.

Route:Pound Lane Pass >> Phoenix Mountain >> Ngong Ping, approximately 4.5 km

Transportation:Take bus routes 3 or 3M from Mui Wo Pier and get off at Pound Lane Pass; take bus routes 3, 3M, 11, or 23 from Tung Chung Town Centre and get off at Pound Lane Pass; for the return trip, take bus route 23 back to Tung Chung Town Centre.

1. Hiking trails in Hong Kong are all well-marked, and different trails have different marker designs. “M” stands for MacLehose Trail, while “M001” indicates a distance of 500 meters. These markers make it easier to describe your location in case of an emergency.

2. It’s best to stick to regularly maintained trails. Avoid walking along streams, as sudden heavy rain can cause rivers to flood, putting hikers at risk of being caught off guard.

3. Bring ample supplies. To prevent dehydration due to intense summer sun, plan to take more rest breaks around noon and bring hats and other sun protection gear. If you need to hike or travel at night, wear bright clothing and carry a flashlight or headlamp, facing oncoming traffic.

4. Take precautions by bringing windproof clothing and first aid supplies for minor injuries.

5. Although most hiking trails in Hong Kong are well-equipped, it is still recommended to hike with companions for mutual support along the way.