Hiking is one of the best activities to pursue on a weekend in Hong Kong—a city is blessed with the best of both worlds; nature and skyscrapers. Most locals and tourists know to hike the classic trails, including Victoria Peak and Dragon’s Back, but there’s so much more to explore. Here are some of the lesser-known, yet incredible, trails which will whisk you away from the city and crowds.
Mount Stenhouse, Lamma Island
For a walk on the wilder side, Lamma Island’s Mount Stenhouse starts with a concrete path, followed by a more rural route, where you’ll be tracking the coloured scraps of material to make your way along the trail. This route offers sea views. Take a ferry from Central to Sok Kwu Wan and follow the path uphill towards Tung O towards a pagoda. Once you reach the crossroads, turn left for Mount Stenhouse.
See also: Hong Kong Hikes: The Top 12 Hiking Trails To Try Now
Mount Nicholson & Mount Cameron
The Peak may offer spectacular panoramas of Hong Kong, but there are plenty of just-as-noteworthy alternatives. A lesser-known hike on island side, surrounded by Wan Chai, Happy Valley, Southside, and Mid-Levels, Mount Nicholson & Mount Cameron features 360-degree views of the Victoria Harbour from above. Take Bus 6, 63, or 76 to Repulse Bay and get off at Wong Nai Chung Gap Road. Start your way up and you’ll come across Black’s Link, Mount Nicholson’s slopes, Mask Rock, and finally Wan Chai Gap Road at the end. You’ll see a range of stunning views throughout the trail.
Sunset Peak
As Hong Kong’s third tallest mountain, Sunset Peak is a must for outdoor enthusiasts. There are different ways to get to the top, either from Tung Chung through to the Wong Lung Hang Valley for the full climb, or from Pak Kung Au. Take the MTR to Tung Chung and walk or take a bus to the start of the trail at Wong Lung Hang.
See also: 5 Nature Destinations In Asia For A Green Wellness Getaway
High Junk Peak
High Junk Peak is one of Hong Kong’s sharpest peaks, yet it requires only moderate levels of exertion to embark it. Situated in the picturesque Clearwater Bay, the hike takes you up a summit, where sea and mountain views await. Take the MTR to Hang Hau, then the 103 minibus to Ng Fai Tin village, then start your walk from there.
See also: Luxury Hong Kong Wellness Retreat Staycations To Try
Little Hawaii Trail
The Little Hawaii Trail is probably the easiest waterfall hike in Hong Kong. So whilst it might not be the most challenging of the bunch, its views are still well worth it. An ideal option for families, the waterfall is accessible from Tseng Lan Shue and Tseung Kwan O Village in the New Territories. Head to Tseng Lan Shue bus stop on Clearwater Bay Road, then walk to the entrance of Wilson Trail Section 3. The start of the trail is on the side of the road pointing towards Diamond Hill and Choi Hung.
See also: 15 Activities To Try In Hong Kong This Summer
Tate’s Cairn
Located in Ma On Shan Country Park, Tate’s Cairn rises at 583 metres high, and is one of the peaks of the Kowloon Ridge. The classic spot welcomes hikers year-round, but is still underrated in popularity, making it a peaceful respite. Go through Exit E at Wong Tai Sin Station, then follow Sha Tin Pass Road until you enter Lion Rock Country Park.