BIG DAY OUT

Your Hong Kong hiking bucket list

Nicole Slater rounds up the best trails to tackle before hiking season ends

Your Hong Kong hiking bucket list

Photo: Michael Hsu

Lion Rock

Conquer this rugged ridge to witness the intense sprawl of Kowloon against the scenic backdrop of Hong Kong Island. The summit stands 495 metres above sea level and takes around two hours to climb to the top, with the path undulating for an hour or so before arriving at the foot of Lion Rock. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, as this hike is famous for its monkeys residents.

Tate’s Cairn

For those who think The Peak is the most dramatic summit, think again. Located 583 meters above sea level, Tate’s Cairn offers panoramic views of Kowloon and its surrounds. Starting from Sha Tin the whole hike should take around four hours. If you’re feeling daring, you can continue walking to the infamous Kowloon Peak and Suicide Cliff.

Braemar Hill

This short 20-minute hike is perfect for an early morning or late afternoon stroll and offers multiple viewing locations to snap the perfect picture. Starting from Braemar Hill Bus Terminus, cross the road and pick up the trail from Hau Yuen Path. The trail starts off steep but soon flattens out and is pathed for the majority of the hike. Follow the red ribbons conveniently located along the route and be rewarded with stunning views over Hong Kong Island.

Twin Peaks and Violet Hill

If you’re looking for a challenge, Twin Peaks and Violet Hill is the hike for you. Commonly referred to as the Terrible Twins due to its seemingly never-ending series of steps (over 1,000 actually). We strongly advise doing this hike from Parkview to Stanley, rather than in the opposite direction. When you’re halfway up the first peak the visions of Stanley’s restaurants and free flowing cocktails will keep you going.

Mount High West

Perched next to Victoria Peak, Mount High West offers sweeping panoramic views of Hong Kong and is a prime spot for watching the sunset. With a summit located 494 metres above ground, this hike is known for its steep incline and the hefty amount of stairs. If you fancy a challenge start your hike from Old Peak Road and walk up to The Peak, or catch a minibus up and join the trail at Lugard Road. There you’ll find a pavilion with narrow steps leading to the top of Mount High West.

Sunset Peak

Hong Kong’s third highest peak and Lantau’s second highest mountain, Sunset Peak is known for its gorgeous sunset views overlooking the Lantau coastline. The sunsets here are so beautiful, they have even been featured on Cantopop singer Eason Chan’s album Taste the Atmosphere. Be sure to bring along a flashlight since descending from the peak after dark can be dangerous.

Suicide Cliff at Kowloon Peak

Standing at 603 metres above sea level, Kowloon Peak offers panoramic views of bustling Victoria Harbour from one direction and serene Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay from the other. The hike starts with a steep incline up to the summit which takes around an hour. Once there follow the trail down to Suicide Cliff (called so because of its rocky feature which resembles a diving board). Here you’ll find stunning views of Hong Kong island from above. Please proceed with caution on this hike and remember no photo is worth risking your life.

Dragon’s Back

Dragon’s Back took home the prize for Hong Kong’s favourite hike in our Hong Kong Living Awards 2020 and it’s not difficult to see why. Popular with both locals and tourists, beginner or expert, the Dragon’s Back trail boasts beautiful coastal views of Shek O, Tai Long Wan and Tung Lung Island. It is easily accessible from the city which means it gets busy, particularly during weekends. Get there early, or prepare to queue just to get onto the trail.

Sai Wan

If you fancy something a bit easier, the walk from Sai Wan Pavilion to Sai Wan Beach is popular amongst visitors and Sai Kung residents. Follow the downhill path which takes around half an hour to get to the beach. For a challenge hike back up the hill upon your return or hop on a speed boat back to Sai Kung Town