Hong Kong Trail

The Hong Kong Trail is a 50-kilometer walking route that traverses the lush, green heart of Hong Kong Island, offering a striking contrast to the city's dense urban landscape. Winding through five country parks, this trail reveals a side of Hong Kong few visitors expect: dense forests, cascading streams, panoramic coastal views, and secluded beaches. It's a well-marked and accessible hike, perfect for travelers seeking a dose of nature without straying far from the city's amenities.

Highlights & What to See

• Section 1 (The Peak to Pok Fu Lam Reservoir): Start at the iconic Victoria Peak, then descend through shady woodland to the peaceful reservoir, with glimpses of the South China Sea.
• Section 2 (Pok Fu Lam to Peel Rise): A quieter stretch through the Aberdeen Country Park, featuring a charming waterfall and views over the sprawling Aberdeen Harbour.
• Section 3 (Peel Rise to Wan Chai Gap): Pass through the serene Wong Nai Chung Gap, a historic site from WWII, with bunkers and military relics hidden in the undergrowth.
• Section 5 (Mount Parker to Tai Tam Road): The most dramatic section, climbing over Mount Parker for sweeping views of the city skyline and the distant New Territories, before descending into the lush Tai Tam Country Park.
• Section 8 (Shek O Road to Big Wave Bay): End your hike at Big Wave Bay, a popular surf beach with a relaxed vibe and excellent seafood restaurants.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow a full day for the entire 50 km trail, but most hikers break it into 2-3 days to fully appreciate each section. The trail is well-connected by public transport, so you can easily tackle individual sections as day hikes. For a half-day adventure, try the first or last section, each taking 2-3 hours. The best time to hike is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and drier.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Victoria Peak: Start or end your hike with a visit to the Peak, where you can enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants and take the historic Peak Tram down.
• Stanley: A charming seaside town with a market, historic Murray House, and a waterfront promenade – perfect for a post-hike meal.
• Shek O: A laid-back beach village near the trail's end, offering a sandy beach and casual seafood dining.
• Tai Tam Reservoir: A scenic detour from the trail, with a beautiful reservoir and the historic Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir Bridge.
• Dragon's Back: A popular 8.5 km hike that overlaps with Section 8 of the Hong Kong Trail, offering spectacular coastal views.

Please check official sources for current details.