Hong Kong Maclehose Trail

Stretching 100 kilometres across the New Territories, the Maclehose Trail is Hong Kong’s premier long-distance hiking route. This iconic trail traverses rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and serene reservoirs, offering a striking contrast to the city’s urban intensity. Divided into 10 stages, it rewards hikers with panoramic views of九龙半岛, Sai Kung’s volcanic rock formations, and the South China Sea. Whether you tackle a single stage or the whole trail, expect a wild, untamed side of Hong Kong that few visitors experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Sai Kung East Country Park – Starting in the fishing town of Sai Kung, the trail winds through lush hills and ends at the dramatic coastline of Long Ke Wan, with its turquoise waters and sea caves.
• Sharp Peak (Stage 2) – One of the most challenging and rewarding sections, climbing 468m to a summit with breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and beaches.
• Tai Long Wan (Big Wave Bay) – A stunning crescent of golden sand backed by green hills, perfect for a refreshing dip after a long hike.
• Ngong Ping 360 (Stage 4) – Not the cable car, but the trail section that passes through the hills above Tung Chung, offering views of the airport and the giant Buddha.
• Lion Rock (Stage 5) – A iconic peak shaped like a lion, with panoramic views of Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.
• Tai Mo Shan (Stage 8) – Hong Kong’s highest peak at 957m, often shrouded in mist, with a surreal lunar landscape.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 5–7 days to complete the entire trail at a comfortable pace, covering 2 stages per day. Most hikers focus on the most scenic sections: Stage 2 (Sai Kung to Ham Tin Wan) is a classic day hike (4–5 hours), while Stage 4 (Kei Ling Ha to Tai Po Kau) offers a solid 6-hour challenge. If you only have a day, combine Stage 1 and 2 for a full-day coastal traverse. Remember to carry plenty of water, as some sections have no refill points.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Sai Kung Town – A laid-back fishing village with seafood restaurants and boat trips to outlying islands.
• Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark – Explore hexagonal rock columns and volcanic landscapes near the trail’s eastern end.
• Plover Cove Country Park – A scenic reservoir and hiking area adjacent to the trail’s northern sections.
• Tai Po – A historic market town with the Hong Kong Railway Museum and the Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees.
• Lantau Island – Home to the Tian Tan Buddha and Ngong Ping Village, easily accessible from the trail’s western end.

Please check official sources for current details.