1. Dragon’s back: the most beautiful hike
The Dragon’s Back hike has long enjoyed a great reputation. It has been described as the best hiking route in Hong Kong by Lonely Planet and as the most beautiful trail in Asia by international magazines. It comes as no surprise that Dragon’s Back is popular during holiday seasons, not only for locals, but also foreigners looking to complete this world-class hike. Undulating over the mountain ridge, the route is great for enjoying the scenery rather than just going straight uphill. While the hike itself is not difficult, novices should always be cautious of the steep cliff sides. It’s also advisable to wear proper hiking boots for extra support. It only takes about 1 hour to get from the starting point to the mountaintop for enjoying the unobstructed, panoramic views. Both Shek O and Big Wave Bay can be seen off in the distance.
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆
How to get there: Take the NWFB bus No. 9 heading for Shek O at Shau Kei Wan Bus Terminus and get off at "To Tei Wan".
Duration: about 3 hours
2. Pineapple dam nature trail: a place to learn about nature
Earning its name from being home to an old pineapple plantation, the Pineapple Dam Nature Trail is about an hour’s walk. It’s a very easy hike and there are countless interesting trees to learn about along the way, including Liquidambars, Acacias, and more. There is also a wide variety of lichens, mosses, and other plants. It makes a great family hike for learning more about nature. The trail gets especially beautiful in autumn and winter when the leaves are red.
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
How to get there: Take minibus No. 82 from Shiu Wo Street in Tsuen Wan to "Shing Mun Reservoir Pineapple Dam Minibus Terminus". Alternatively, take a bus that passes through "Ho Fung College". Get off there and walk for about 20 minutes to the Pineapple Dam minibus terminus.
Duration: about 1 hour
3. Devil’s peak – an urban hike
Even within the urban area, Devil’s Peak is incredibly convenient to go to. That’s why it’s a popular place for people to visit and take photos of the cityscape from the summit. Devil’s Peak is not a hard hike. It only takes about 45 minutes to reach the top, as a stone path and railings lead the way. There are countless wartime turrets, bunkers and outposts along the way. If you have friends interested in military history, this is a great hike for them. Once you reach the top, there’s a spectacular view of the Victoria Harbor, and it’s a great place to watch the sunset.
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆
How to get there: Take the MTR to Exit A2 at Yau Tong Station. Start the hike along the road towards the Tseung Kwan O Chinese Permanent Cemetery.
Duration: about 1.5 hours
The 3 hiking routes above are suitable for hikers of all skill levels. That said, you should still bring appropriate hiking equipment. This includes clothing, boots, and poles, etc. Wearing slippers or skirts, for example, can make a safe route dangerous. It’s also great to go with more experienced hikers if it’s your first time.
