The best hiking trails in Hong Kong

Dragon's Back

One of the most scenic trails located in the downtown area, Dragon's Back is a favorite destination for those who love to explore nature and challenge their buddies. It allows you to enjoy the panoramic views of the city, the southern islands and the beautiful long coastline. The hike ends at Big Wave Bay, so you can take a dip in the sea or have a relaxing meal at any of the restaurants right by the beach. Start your journey at To Tei Wan on Shek O Road and follow the Hong Kong Trail to the Shek O Peninsula lookout. Then, keep walking until you reach the open-air platform on Shek O Peak, which opens you up to a breathtaking view of the coastline. Then continue uphill to Dragon's Back view where you can look back at Tai Tam Bay and sometimes Lamma Island on a sunny day. When you're ready, you can begin your descent and follow the signposts to Hong Kong's surfing paradise, Big Wave Bay.

• Levels: all levels, especially for hiking beginners
• Distance: 8.5 km
• Estimated time: 3 hours
• Difficulty: 2.5-5
• Note: This trail has no shade, so make sure you bring enough water and sunscreen for this adventure
• Transportation: from the city center, you can take bus number 9 or the red minibus from Shau Kei Wan bus terminal to To Tei Wan on Shek O Road. At Big Wave Bay, you can catch Return to bus number 9 or red minibus to return to Shau Kei Wan.

Lamman Island (Lamma Island)

Lamma Island is the third largest island in Hong Kong and is only a 30-minute ferry ride from Trung Hoan. It is well-liked for its fresh air, beautiful views, and variety of eateries from traditional Chinese seafood restaurants to modern cafes and bars. Take the ferry from Trung Hoan Pier and you will arrive at Yung Shue Wan. From here, you can spend some time wandering around the village. As you pass through the village, look for signs to Sok Kwu Wan and follow the signs to Wind Power Station, Hong Kong's first windmill. You can even stop by to visit the exhibition center and learn about the history of the area. Continue hiking and you'll reach Hung Shing Ye Beach, where you'll find spontaneous shops, a BBQ area, as well as restrooms and showers. Leave the beach and continue uphill until you reach the final point that marks the highest point of this hike. Keep walking and you'll eventually reach Sok Kwu Wan, home to a few restaurants with stunning sea views.

• Levels: all levels, especially for hiking beginners
• Distance: 7 km
• Estimated time: 2 hours
• Difficulty: 2.5-5
• Note: You can start your journey from Yung Shue Wan or Sok Kwu Wan. Be sure to check the ferry's schedule to make sure there's enough time on the island.
• Transportation: ferries from Zhonghuan Pier 4 (Central 4) to both Yung Shue Wan and Sok Kwu Wan.

The Peak (The Peak)

A must-see in Hong Kong, The Peak is very popular thanks to its stunning views of Victoria Harbor and the city. The most unique way to explore Cai Binh Peak is by hiking for an hour around. Harlech Road and Lugard Road Round Walk start next to the Peak Tower, which offers 360-degree views of the city. The walkway is flat and accessible by stroller. Alternatively, you can try your hand at conquering Thai Binh Peak in the evening to see Hong Kong's iconic skyline at night. If your schedule allows, visit Victoria Peak Garden, just a 10-minute walk from the Peak Tower. This is the former residence of the Governor of Hong Kong, which was later demolished.

• Level: all levels, especially for those who like to experience outdoor activities
• Distance: 3.5 km
• Estimated time: 1 hour
• Difficulty: 1-3
• Note: This route is suitable for families but quite crowded on weekends
• Transportation: Take the tram from the Peak Tram terminus on Garden Road, or take bus 15 from Exchange Square station and get off at The Peak stop

Sunset Peak

Try climbing Hong Kong's third highest peak for a panoramic view of nature at night, it's sure to be the best experience in your Hong Kong trip. Start this impressive exploration at Pak Kung Au, which leads you up the grassy Lantau Trail for panoramic views from Sunset Peak. Enjoy the Lantau, Pui O coastline along the way. The romantic setting at the top of the mountain will make the arduous climb so much more worthwhile. From mid-October to early November, which is silver grass season, you will have the opportunity to witness a sea of silver grass shining under the golden color of the sunset. If you want to watch the sunset, bring your full lighting equipment because it gets dark very quickly here. You should start your journey around 3pm to make sure you have enough time to get back to the city center when it gets dark.

• Level: all levels, especially for those who like to experience outdoor activities
• Distance: 7 km
• Estimated duration: .3.5 hours
• Difficulty: 4-5
• Note: The way up from the starting point to the top is about 529m, so make sure your fitness is suitable for the route. If you want to catch the sunset, bring your headlights and allow enough time to walk back. This place is quite crowded during the silver grass season
• Transportation: Take bus number 11, 23 or 3M from Tung Chung Station Bus Terminal to Pak Kung Au. From the end take bus 3M to Tung Chung Station or to Mui Wo station.

Lion Rock

Named for its resemblance to a Lion's head, Lion Rock is considered one of Hong Kong's most iconic hiking trails. Many Cantopop songs and TV shows have mentioned Lion Rock as it is said to embody the spirit of Hong Kong people. At the 495m peak, hikers will have the opportunity to unleash unobstructed 360-degree views of Kowloon and Hong Kong Island (facing south) and the New Territories (facing back). North). The walking path is of medium difficulty because it is initially steep with many steps. The terrain features a mix of paved roads, terraces and nature trails. The way up has strips of land, not much shade, so be sure to bring sunscreen. After you enjoy the view at the top of the mountain, the path down is more shaded. The hike begins at the Fat Jong Hill Temple, where you will see the Shatin Pass. Follow that path until you reach the entrance to Lion Rock National Park. When going downhill, you'll want to follow the signs to Lion Rock Park, the park at the foot of the mountain where your hike ends. It's a relatively short hike, but you should drink at least 1 liter of water to make sure you stay hydrated throughout the journey.

• Level: all levels, especially for those who like to experience outdoor activities
• Distance: 6 km
• Estimated time: 2-3 hours
• Difficulty: 4-5
• Note: You should arrange to go on weekdays, and should go early in the morning to avoid the midday sun or late afternoon to be able to watch the beautiful sunset. Since this is a popular hiking spot, weekend afternoons tend to be quite crowded
• Transportation: Arrive at Wong Tai Sin MTR station and take exit B3, before taking the 18M minibus to Temple Hill Fat Jong Temple.