If you were to stereotype Hong Kong, you would probably say that it’s a cosmopolitan city, bustling with eager international traders, and is truly a concrete jungle. While this may be true, Hong Kong’s lush and underrated countryside is where the magic really happens, and its diverse range of hiking trails is a perfect example of this.
Whether you’re looking for a deserted island trail, jaw-dropping mountain views, or a glimpse into the wildlife that inhabits a Chinese bamboo forest, Hong Kong has something for everyone. Read on to discover our top 7 hiking trails.
” destination=”Hong Kong” ]1. Po Toi Country Trail
Po Toi is Hong Kong’s southernmost island and is renowned for its abundance of impressive rock formations and tasty seaweed soup. With a population of only 200 people, Po Toi is an ideal location to get away from the crowds and hike a secluded track. Throughout the nature trail you can look out for a lighthouse, 3,000-year-old rock carvings, and two granite rocks that resemble a tortoise and a monk, all while enjoying seafront views. On your descent, be sure to buy some dried seaweed products to take home, as they are a widely recognised delicacy in Po Toi.
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Location: Islands District
2. Dragon’s Back Trail
Named for its winding paths, Dragon’s Back trail is one of Hong Kong’s most iconic hiking trails. This hike involves passing through acres of towering bamboo forest and native woodland fauna before reaching the 284 metre (931 feet) peak. Once you’ve arrived at the top of the trail, not only can you enjoy the views of locals flying their kites, you’ll also be rewarded with epic views of Hong Kong’s southern islands. As you descend, you will be met by Big Wave Bay, where you are invited to take a dip to cool off or ride the waves of the Pacific Ocean.
- Duration: 4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Location: Hong Kong Island South
3. Shing Mun Reservoir Trail
Looking for some wildlife? The hike around the Shiny Mun Reservoir trail guarantees sightings of monkeys, birds, and even cows, all while embracing blissful scenery. The trail begins amongst towering woodland with monkeys flying through the sidelines and makes its way towards the main dam. This peaceful setting sees elevating mountain scenery encompass the water reserve, which makes for the perfect photo opportunities! We’d say bring a picnic, but better not tempt the monkeys’ cheeky tendencies.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Location: Tsuen Wan District
4. Lantau Peak Trail
With a summit reaching heights of 934 metres (3064 feet), Lantau Peak is the second-highest mountain in Hong Kong and offers the most spectacular views over the ocean and surrounding ranges. Lantau Peak is famous for its sunrise hike, with a recommended set off time of 4 am, in order to reach the peak by 6 am and enjoy some of the most epic visionary Hong Kong has to offer. With its name translating to “Chinese Firebird,” Lantau Peak passes through the “Wisdom Path,” which involves a collection of jaw-droppingly huge carvings of wood, including the world’s tallest-standing outdoor Buddha.
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- Location: Islands District
5. The Peak Trail
Beat the crowds and reap the scenic rewards by hiking one of the most famous sightseeing trails in Hong Kong. Victoria Peak is an observation deck with paid access that offers astounding views of Hong Kong Island. However, the Peak trail is a nature walk that follows the exact same views, only free-of-charge and with an added experience. Indulge in colonial history as you surpass the cliffside forests and reach the urban city skyline for miles to see. This is the ultimate way to see downtown Hong Kong whilst also exploring its underrated nature hotspot!
- Duration: 1 hour
- Difficulty: Easy
- Location: Hong Kong Island
6. Sok Kwu Wan to Yung Shue Wan Trail
Lamma Island is a must-visit location when in Hong Kong, and its trail from Sok Kwu Wan to Yung Shue Wan is a perfect way to see why. This secluded spot has no cars, and so you must reach it by a 30-minute ferry from Hong Kong Central which adds to the unique nature of the hike. Comprised of aqua-marine coves and traditional fishing villages, Lamma Island is widely recognised for its quality seafood and intimate village hang-outs, which you will get to experience as part of this trail!
- Duration: 4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Location: Islands District
7. Sunset Peak Trail
Named for its breathtaking sunset views, Sunset Peak trail rewards hikers with one of Hong Kong’s most photogenic nature panoramas. Its peak stands at 869 metres (2851 feet) tall, and is Hong Kong’s third-highest mountain. With its widespread sheets of silver grass lighting up the mountain range in Winter and the town of Mui Woi at the bottom of the descent for a dip in Summer, this hike is a perfect year-round activity. The trail also passes by centuries-old British missionary huts and watchtowers, for that little history kick along the way.
- Duration: 4.5 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- Location: Islands District
One of the best parts of travel is discovering that there’s always more to a destination than you think there will be — if you’re thinking about heading to Hong Kong for a city escape, consider hitting the hiking trails as well!
Have you ever hiked in Hong Kong? Where did you go?
