Hong Kong. Hiking. Who would’ve thought that the two would go so well together? Generally, Hong Kong is more known for its urban city life, historical landmarks, foodie tours, and indoor or outdoor amusement parks. But wait — there’s more to do in Hong Kong than just dim sum, cha chaan teng cafes, and outlet shopping!
If you’ve never gone hiking in Hong Kong, you’re seriously missing out! Join the locals in exploring various trails and be rewarded panoramic views of cultural gems, hidden beaches, as well as colorful plant life.
From the easy-peasy Victoria (The Peak) hike to the indomitable Lion Rock Peak trail, we’re giving you the lowdown on Hong Kong’s top hiking trails. Lace up your hiking boots and let’s go!
Here Are Our Recommended Hiking Trails in Hong Kong:
How To Get To The Starting Point:
Any of these routes are easily reachable by train, bus, or taxi, thanks to Hong Kong’s efficient transportation system (READ: How To Get Around Hong Kong on the MTR). Just grab an Octopus Card and journey to the starting points we listed below.
For Beginner Hikers:
The Peak (1.5km)
Like we said, this one’s hardly a challenge, but it’s a good pick for first-timers! With dedicated trails leading you uphill, enjoy panoramic views from the side of The Peak — a hill on the West park of Hong Kong Island.
In the middle of the Morning Trail, you may opt for Harlech Road as a shortcut to the top. Or take the more challenging Lugard Road for more stunning cityscapes. Once you arrive at the top, you can take the tram to Sky Terrace or explore Victoria Peak Garden.
Should your companions wish to skip the hike, book them Peak Tram tickets here and meet them at the top!
- Difficulty: 1/5
- Duration: ~3 hours
- Starting Point: Head to the grounds of the University of Hong Kong, which has its own dedicated trail to The Peak
Lamma Island Family Trail Hike (7 – 9 km)
Why is this trail highly recommended for families? The walking path will take you through Lanma Island’s beaches so you can treasure peaceful scenery together. Escape the bustling city as you walk through Hung Shing Yeh Beach, beautiful hillsides, fine sandy beaches, sleepy fishing villages, and bamboo-filled forests.
Take in the tranquil atmosphere — since there are no cars around! — at the Chinese-style pavilion and coastal scenes. There are plenty of stops, such as Seafood Street, for you and your loved ones on this refreshing 3-hour hike.
- Route: Yung Shue Wan – Lamma Winds – Hung Sing Yeh / Lo So Beach – Sok Kwu Wan
- Difficulty: 2/5
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Starting Point: Take a ferry from Central ferry pier 4 to Yung Shue Wan. Go past Yung Shue Wan Main Street, Lamma Winds, and Hung Shing Yeh Beach to get to the start of the Family Trail
For Intermediate Hikers:
The Dragon’s Back (8.5 km)
As the winner of Time Magazine’s ‘Best Urban Hike in Asia’, this Hong Kong trail Section 8 is your best bet for hiking. What makes it so enticing? How its wild, natural beauty clashes with man-made skyscrapers, still seen in the background while you hike. Admire stunning vistas of Tai Tam, Shek O, the South China Sea, and the Big Wave Bay, every step of the way.
Whether you’re looking to get lost in dense tunnel of trees, fly a kite, surf or even paraglide, there’s something in this paradise for every type of hiker. Cap off your adventure at Tai Long Village where a rewarding treat awaits; sip on the aptly-named Dragon’s Back beer from the microbrewery on the beach!
- Difficulty: 3/5
- Starting Point: Ride Bus #9 from Shau Kei Wan to Shek O Road to the Tei Wan bus stop
Lantau Peak Hike (7 km)
Are the trails above not enough of a challenge? Then look no further than Lantau Peak, located in Hong Kong’s second tallest mountain, Ma On Shan, to get your adrenaline pumping. Be warned — there are no dedicated hiking trails! There Lantau Trail boasts several routes, the most famous one being the Sunrise Peak.
Challenge yourself by climbing narrow and crumbling paths in the dark, then be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise, the Big Buddha Monastery, and lush greenery as far as the eye could see. Going down, you can opt to ride the Ngong Ping cable car to relax with mountainside views.
- Difficulty: 3/5
- Starting Point: Take the MTR to Tung Chung and then a bus towards Mui Wo. Since the trail starts between Mui Wo and Tung Chung, ask the driver to drop you off at the start of the Lantau trail, which has its own sign
For Expert Hikers:
Lion Rock Peak (3 km)
Between Kowloon Tong of Kowloon and Tai Wai of the New Territories lies a beast of a hike — the infamous Lion Rock Peak! This 3-hour hike will force you to crawl on all fours to reach the top. Off-road stone tracks and steep inclines await you. But the view will be worth the tedious effort. Feel like you’re on top of the world while seeing magnificent Hong Kong beneath your feet.
- Difficulty: 4/5
- Starting Point: Take the MTR to either Diamond Hill MTR Station or Won Tai Sin MTR station (Exit B3)
Tai Mo Shan (11 km)
Behold Hong Kong’s highest peak at 957 meters above sea level! Make your way from the Lead Mine Pass to Route Twisk. Encounter abandoned mines hidden deep in the forest, Kowloon reservoirs, and even free-roaming cows. Make sure to bring bottled water and your lunch, because you’ll be under the heat of the sun the whole time with zero rest stops in sight.
Glimpse views of Tsuen Wan, covered in silvery mist, and marvel at the towering Long Falls (the tallest one in Hong Kong!).
- Difficulty: 4/5 (although locals seem to find it easier, rating this only 2 stars)
- Starting Point: Take the MTR red line to Tsuen Wan, Kwai Hing, or Tai Wo Hau Station. Then, ride a cab to Lead Mine Pass. Name should be Lead Mine Pass (鉛礦坳)
Best Time to Hike
Ideal months: October – April
Normally, October and November are deemed the best months to hike. This is due to less humidity and a pleasant temperature between 23°C – 27°C. Prepare to compete with crowds since this time is popular for both locals and foreigners celebrating National Day. Try to plan your hike on a weekday to avoid the majority of the other tourists.
Trekker Tips
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- What to wear: your best hiking gear: cap, waterproof hiking pants, windbreakers, and good hiking shoes
- What to bring: mosquito repellent, and walking shoes, as well as plenty of bottled water (around 2 – 3). Food and snacks, too, because some of these trails are remote
- Download Google Maps to find your way to the starting point easily
Ready to give Hong Kong hiking a go? Test your skills out on a day climb, capture the best views of Hong Kong, and enjoy the (athletic) satisfaction no cable car ride can ever give you. Happy Hiking in Hong Kong!
For more recommendations and tips about hiking around Asia or things to do in HK, keep posted on our page! In the meantime, check out these links below:
