Maclehose Trail

Stretching 100 kilometres across Hong Kong’s New Territories, the Maclehose Trail is one of Asia’s great long-distance hikes. Conceived in the 1970s by the then Governor, Sir Murray MacLehose, the trail traverses rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and dense forest. It’s a world away from the city’s skyscrapers, offering a wild, immersive outdoor experience that rewards with sweeping views of the South China Sea and the distant peaks of mainland China. This is a trail for serious walkers, but you don’t need to be an elite athlete to enjoy it – just a good level of fitness, sturdy boots, and a sense of adventure. The trail is divided into ten sections, each with its own character and accessibility, making it easy to tackle in day-hike chunks or as a multi-day expedition.

Highlights & What to See

• Section 1 & 2 – Sai Kung Peninsula: Start at Pak Tam Chung and walk along the High Island Reservoir, then climb over the volcanic rock formations of the Sai Kung East Country Park. The reward is the stunning Long Ke Wan beach, a crescent of golden sand often described as one of Hong Kong’s best.
• Section 2 – Ham Tin Wan & Tai Long Sai Wan: Continue along the Tai Long Wan (Big Wave Bay) area, where four beautiful beaches – Sai Wan, Ham Tin, Tai Wan, and Tung Wan – are linked by a coastal path. Perfect for a swim or overnight camping.
• Section 3 – Ma On Shan: This is the toughest section, with steep ascents over Ma On Shan (702 m). The views from the summit of the Tolo Harbour and the distant Ninepin Islands are epic, but be prepared for a lung-busting climb.
• Section 4 – Kei Ling Ha to Sha Tin Pass: A roller-coaster ridge walk with panoramic vistas of the Sai Kung hinterland. The section passes through the Maclehose Trail’s highest point at Pyramid Hill (536 m) and offers a bird’s-eye view of the Shing Mun Reservoir.
• Section 8 – Tai Mo Shan: Climb Hong Kong’s highest peak, Tai Mo Shan (957 m), via a paved road that winds through misty grasslands. On a clear day, you can see the whole territory and beyond. The section ends at the iconic ‘Needle Hill’.
• Section 9 – Shing Mun to Yuen Tsuen Ancient Trail: A gentler section through the Shing Mun Country Park, following the historic ‘Yuen Tsuen Ancient Trail’ – a paved path once used by villagers. It’s a pleasant woodland walk with glimpses of the reservoir.
• Section 10 – Tai Lam Chung Reservoir: The final section is a relatively flat walk along the reservoir’s edge, ending at Tuen Mun. It’s a quiet, reflective finish, with the backdrop of the Tuen Mun hills.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most hikers allocate 3 to 5 days to complete the entire trail, staying overnight at campsites or budget guesthouses along the way. If you only have a day, sections 1–2 (the coastal Sai Kung stretch) are the most rewarding and can be done as a 6–8 hour hike. For a two-day itinerary, combine sections 1–4 (camp at Ham Tin Wan or near Ma On Shan) for a challenging but doable loop. The trail is well-marked with distance posts (M001–M200) and water stops at country park visitor centres, but always carry plenty of water and snacks – shops are few and far between.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Sai Kung Town: The vibrant fishing port and gateway to the trail’s eastern sections, famous for its seafood restaurants, boat trips, and weekend markets.
• Tai O: A traditional fishing village on Lantau Island, known for its stilt houses and dried seafood – a cultural contrast to the trail’s wilderness.
• Hong Kong Global Geopark: Explore the volcanic rock columns and sea arches of the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region, easily accessible from the trail’s start.
• Lantau Trail: Another long-distance hiking route on Lantau Island, offering a different landscape of peaks, monasteries, and the Big Buddha.
• Shek O: A laid-back beach town on the southern coast of Hong Kong Island, perfect for a post-hike chill-out with a beachside beer.
• Central & Victoria Peak: For a complete Hong Kong experience, combine your hike with a visit to the city’s iconic skyline and the Peak Tram.

Please check official sources for current details.