Hiking in Hong Kong: 15 Breathtaking Trails You Must Explore

Hong Kong is more than just a city of skyscrapers – it is a paradise for hikers, offering stunning mountain trails, coastal paths, and lush countryside walks.

With its mix of challenging summits and easy scenic routes, Hong Kong provides something for every hiker, whether you’re looking for a short family-friendly stroll or a demanding full-day trek.

Here are some of the best hiking places in Hong Kong, along with key details and tips.

1. Dragon’s Back

A classic Hong Kong hike, famous for its breathtaking coastal views and accessibility.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: ~8.5 km
Location: Shek O Country Park
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°14’53.0″N 114°14’08.0″E

Key Tips:

• Perfect for beginners and casual hikers.

• Best hiked in the morning for cooler temperatures.

• End your hike at Shek O Beach for a relaxing swim.

2. Lion Rock Hike

A famous hike offering panoramic views of Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Distance: ~6 km
Location: Lion Rock Country Park
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°21’23.0″N 114°11’51.0″E

Key Tips:

• Avoid midday hikes as the trail is exposed.

• Great for photography, especially at sunset.

• Be cautious on steep rocky sections.

3. Victoria Peak (Peak Circle Walk)

An easy and scenic walk offering the best views of Hong Kong’s skyline.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: ~3.5 km
Location: Central, Hong Kong Island
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°16’34.0″N 114°08’57.0″E

Key Tips:

• Best visited at sunset or night for city lights.

• Take the Peak Tram for a more enjoyable experience.

• Suitable for families and casual walkers.

4. Lantau Peak

The second-highest peak in Hong Kong, offering a rewarding sunrise view.

Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: ~4.5 km (one-way)
Location: Lantau Island
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°15’30.0″N 113°55’48.0″E

Key Tips:

• Start early to catch the sunrise.

• Prepare for steep ascents and rocky paths.

• Bring warm clothing for cooler temperatures at the summit.

5. Sunset Peak

Known for breathtaking golden sunsets and scenic grasslands.

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Distance: ~6.5 km
Location: Lantau Island
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°15’42.0″N 113°56’12.0″E

Key Tips:

• Best visited in autumn for its golden-colored hills.

• Great for camping with mountain huts along the trail.

• A moderate fitness level is required for steep climbs.

6. Tai Mo Shan

The highest peak in Hong Kong, offering misty and dramatic views.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: ~10 km
Location: New Territories
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°25’31.0″N 114°07’48.0″E

Key Tips:

• Can be foggy, so check weather forecasts beforehand.

• Ideal for sunrise and sunset hikes.

• Wear warm clothing, especially in winter.

7. Sharp Peak

A rugged and steep hike for experienced hikers, offering some of the best coastal views.

Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: ~10 km
Location: Sai Kung
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°24’45.0″N 114°22’18.0″E

Key Tips:

• Only for experienced hikers due to the steep terrain.

• Bring enough water as there are no refill stations.

• Avoid during hot summer months.

8. MacLehose Trail

A legendary 100 km trail that crosses Hong Kong’s most scenic landscapes.

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Distance: ~100 km (divided into 10 sections)
Location: Multiple locations across Hong Kong
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°21’47.0″N 114°17’18.0″E

Key Tips:

• Can be completed in sections over multiple days.

• Some sections require overnight camping.

• Prepare for diverse terrains, from beaches to mountains.

9. Wilson Trail

A demanding long-distance trail covering both urban and natural landscapes.

Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: ~78 km
Location: Multiple locations across Hong Kong
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°18’45.0″N 114°11’30.0″E

Key Tips:

• Best done in sections over multiple hikes.

• Some parts have steep staircases.

• Ideal for seasoned hikers looking for a challenge.

10. Lamma Island Family Walk

A relaxed and scenic coastal hike, ideal for beginners.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: ~5 km
Location: Lamma Island
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°12’50.0″N 114°06’30.0″E

Key Tips:

• Take a ferry from Central to Lamma Island.

• Enjoy fresh seafood at the end of the hike.

• Perfect for families and casual walkers.

11. Plover Cove Reservoir Country Trail

One of the most scenic reservoir hikes in Hong Kong, offering stunning coastal and mountain views.

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Distance: ~16 km
Location: Tai Mei Tuk, New Territories
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°29’23.0″N 114°14’48.0″E

Key Tips:

• Start early as it’s a long hike with little shade.

• Bring sufficient water as there are no refill stations.

• Enjoy panoramic views of Plover Cove Reservoir and the South China Sea.

12. Po Toi Island Hiking Trail

A unique island hike featuring rugged coastal scenery and mysterious rock formations.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: ~4 km
Location: Po Toi Island
Cost: Free (Ferry ride required)
Coordinates: 22°09’30.0″N 114°15’36.0″E

Key Tips:

• Take a ferry from Aberdeen or Stanley to reach the island.

• Explore the island’s famous rock formations, including the Turtle Rock and Buddha’s Palm Cliff.

• Pack food and water as there are limited facilities.

13. Sai Kung East Country Park (High Island Reservoir Trail)

A hike through Sai Kung’s pristine landscapes, featuring crystal-clear waters, volcanic rock formations, and stunning coastal cliffs.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: ~10 km
Location: Sai Kung East Country Park
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°21’30.0″N 114°22’00.0″E

Key Tips:

• Visit the East Dam, where you’ll find incredible hexagonal volcanic rock columns.

• Ideal for hiking and kayaking.

• Accessible by taxi or minibus from Sai Kung town.

14. South Lantau Country Trail

A relaxed countryside hike offering views of rolling hills, lush greenery, and Silvermine Bay Beach.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: ~17 km
Location: Lantau Island
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°14’32.0″N 113°58’50.0″E

Key Tips:

• Perfect for trail runners and nature lovers.

• Ends at Mui Wo, where you can enjoy a meal by the beach.

• Avoid hiking in summer due to heat exposure.

15. Ma On Shan Country Park Trail

A challenging mountain hike that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the New Territories.

Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: ~11 km
Location: Ma On Shan, New Territories
Cost: Free
Coordinates: 22°25’18.0″N 114°14’30.0″E

Key Tips:

• Requires a good fitness level due to steep ascents.

• Stunning sunrise and sunset views from the peak.

• Avoid on rainy days as the trail can be slippery.

Best Seasons and Times for Hiking in Hong Kong

• Autumn (October–December): Best time for hiking with cooler temperatures and clear skies.

• Winter (January–February): Great for high-altitude hikes like Tai Mo Shan.

• Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather but can be humid. Best for shorter hikes.

• Summer (June–September): Hot and humid. Coastal trails like Dragon’s Back are better suited. Avoid challenging mountain hikes due to heat and typhoons.

Essential Hiking Tips for Hong Kong

• Start early to avoid the heat and crowds.

• Bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes.

• Check weather forecasts for sudden rain or typhoons.

• Wear proper hiking shoes for rocky and steep trails.

• Respect nature by not littering or disturbing wildlife.

• Use public transport to reach trailheads easily.

• Download offline maps as some areas have limited signal.

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FAQs

1. What is the best season for hiking in Hong Kong?

The best seasons for hiking in Hong Kong are autumn (October to December) and spring (March to May). During these months, temperatures are cooler, humidity is lower, and visibility is better, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Avoid summer (June to August) as it can be extremely hot.

2. Are there good hiking trails for couples in Hong Kong?

Yes! Some romantic and scenic trails perfect for couples include:

• Dragon’s Back – Offers stunning coastal views and a relaxing beach at the end.

• Sunset Peak – A breathtaking spot for watching the sunset together.

• Po Toi Island Hiking Trail – A secluded island hike with beautiful rock formations.

• Tai Mo Shan Waterfall Trail – A peaceful trail leading to Hong Kong’s tallest waterfall.

3. What is the longest hiking trail in Hong Kong?

The MacLehose Trail is Hong Kong’s longest and most famous hiking route, stretching 100 km across the New Territories. It is divided into 10 sections, ranging from easy to challenging, and takes several days to complete for those who want to do the full trek.

4. Can you camp while hiking in Hong Kong?

Yes! Hong Kong has several designated campsites for hikers, including:

• Sai Wan Beach (Sai Kung) – A beautiful seaside camping spot.

• Sunset Peak (Lantau Island) – Offers mountain huts and an incredible sunrise view.

• Tap Mun (Grass Island) – A scenic coastal island with open grassy areas for camping.
  Most campsites in country parks are free and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

5. Are there hiking trails suitable for biking as well?

Yes, Hong Kong has several hiking trails that allow mountain biking, including:

• Chi Ma Wan Mountain Bike Trail – A scenic and moderately challenging loop on Lantau Island.

• Tai Lam Chung Reservoir (Tai Lam Country Park) – Features some of the best mountain biking routes in Hong Kong.

• Dragon’s Back (partially accessible for bikes) – While the full trail isn’t bike-friendly, certain parts are suitable for cycling.

  Always check local regulations, as not all hiking trails allow biking.