Hong Kong Island Hong Kong Trail

Stretching 50 kilometres across Hong Kong Island, the Hong Kong Trail is a spectacular long-distance hiking route that reveals the island's wild heart. Winding through lush forest, past cascading reservoirs, and along dramatic ridgelines with jaw-dropping views of the South China Sea, this trail offers an immersive escape from the city's neon buzz. It's a favourite among local hikers and savvy travellers looking to balance urban exploration with genuine outdoor adventure – and the best part is that you can tackle it in sections, weaving it into a broader self-drive or public-transport itinerary around Hong Kong.

Highlights & What to See

• Section 1 (The Peak to Pok Fu Lam Reservoir): Begin at Victoria Peak and descend through shady woods past the historic Pinewood Battery, with sweeping views over the harbour and Kowloon.
• Section 2 (Pok Fu Lam to Peel Rise): Walk the quiet Aberdeen Reservoir and catch glimpses of the South China coast; the trail here is easy and family-friendly.
• Section 3 (Peel Rise to Wan Chai Gap): A moderate climb rewards you with panoramic vistas over Deep Water Bay and the distant islands.
• Section 4 (Wan Chai Gap to Wong Nai Chung Gap): Pass through the serene Tai Tam Country Park, where WWII relics like the Wong Nai Chung Gap bunkers add a layer of history.
• Section 5 (Wong Nai Chung Gap to Tai Tam Road): This is the most dramatic stretch – the trail skirts the sheer cliffs above Tai Tam Bay, with turquoise water far below.
• Section 6 (Tai Tam Road to To Tei Wan): Enter the dense forest of the Tai Tam Reservoir catchment, home to rich birdlife and giant banyan trees.
• Section 7 (To Tei Wan to Shek O Road): The highlight is the iconic Dragon's Back ridge, a world-famous hike with 360-degree ocean views that will leave you breathless.
• Section 8 (Shek O Road to Big Wave Bay): Finish at Big Wave Bay, where you can reward yourself with a swim and a cold drink at the beachside cafés.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most hikers break the Hong Kong Trail into two or three days. For a satisfying taster, tackle Sections 1 and 2 as a half-day walk (3–4 hours) starting from The Peak. If you're after the quintessential experience, do the Dragon's Back segment (Section 7) as a 2–3 hour morning hike and then lounge at Big Wave Bay. For the full 50 km challenge, allow three days: Day 1 covers Sections 1–3 (moderate), Day 2 Sections 4–6 (strenuous), and Day 3 Sections 7–8 (easy to moderate). The trail is well-marked and can be accessed by public transport, making it easy to hop on and off.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Victoria Peak (The Peak): Start your hike from the iconic Peak Tower, or simply ride the Peak Tram for the classic view.
• Shek O: A laid-back beach village with seafood restaurants and a chilled vibe – perfect after the Dragon's Back.
• Big Wave Bay: Hong Kong's most famous surf beach, with board rentals and a handful of cafés.
• Stanley: A historic fishing town with a bustling market, waterfront promenade, and the Murray House building.
• Tai Tam Country Park: Explore the park's reservoirs and WWII relics, ideal for a half-day walk.
• Repulse Bay: A glamorous beach with a temple and great dining options, just a short bus ride from the trail.
• Hong Kong Park: In the city centre, this green oasis has a bird aviary and beautiful gardens – a relaxing contrast to the trail.

Please check official sources for current details.