Easy Hong Kong Hikes: Explore the City's Wild Side
Hong Kong isn’t just a bustling urban hub; it’s also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With nearly 40% of its land designated as country parks, the city offers a surprising range of hiking opportunities, from easy strolls to more challenging treks. Whether you're new to hiking, planning a family adventure, or short on time, these accessible trails provide a perfect escape into nature.
Kam Shan Family Walk also known as Monkey Mountain
The Peak Circle Walk, Hong Kong Island
Distance: 3.5 km | Time: 1.25 hours
The Peak Circle Walk is a serene escape that takes you along Lugard and Harlech Roads, offering magnificent views of both the bustling city and the surrounding mountains. The circuit begins and ends at the Peak Tram station, making it an ideal respite from the crowds. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of the Central and Western districts, with Kowloon in the distance. You’ll also encounter informative signs highlighting the local flora, including camphor and scarlet sterculia trees.
Look out for: A majestic India rubber tree with sprawling roots and stems, located about halfway through the trail.
Getting there: Take the Peak Tram or Bus No. 15.
Pok Fu Lam Family Walk, Hong Kong Island
Distance: 3.5 km | Time: 1 hour
The Pok Fu Lam Family Walk offers an easy, flat route through lush woodlands, where you’ll find a diverse range of plant life. The trail follows the curve of Hong Kong’s first reservoir, built in 1863, and takes you through a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. Starting and ending at the same point, it’s a perfect option for those looking for a leisurely walk with scenic views.
Look out for: The charming former watchman’s cottage and breathtaking views towards Lamma Island.
Getting there: Buses No. 4 and No. 71 from Central will take you to Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Road.
Dragon's Back, Hong Kong Island
Distance: 8.5 km | Time: 4 hours
One of Hong Kong's most iconic hikes, Dragon’s Back is known for its scenic ridge and panoramic views of the South China Sea, Shek O, and the bustling cityscape. This hike isn’t too strenuous, with the highest point, Shek O Peak, sitting at 284 meters. It's easily accessible, though it can get crowded—so starting early is recommended. The path leads to the stunning Big Wave Bay, perfect for a refreshing swim.
Look out for: The serene Big Wave Bay, ideal for a swim or a cold beer at the beach bar.
Getting there: MTR to Shau Kei Wan, then Bus No. 9 to To Tei Wan.
Shek Pik Country Trail, Lantau Island
Distance: 6 km | Time: 2 hours
Shek Pik Country Trail offers a beautiful walk through the rugged landscapes of Lantau Island, from the famed Big Buddha to the southern coast. Start with a scenic cable car ride up to Ngong Ping and explore the Wisdom Path, before descending through pine forests and rocky ravines. This peaceful trail ends at the main Lantau catchwater, where you can take a bus to various nearby locations.
Look out for: Panoramic views of the South China Sea and the chance to spot birds of prey soaring above the peaks.
Getting there: MTR to Tung Chung Station, then the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car. Buses from New Lantao Bus link to various points.
Lamma Island Family Trail
Distance: 4 km | Time: 1.5 hours
Lamma Island’s Family Trail takes you through gently undulating hills and past beautiful beaches. Starting at Yung Shue Wan, the path leads through the village and towards Power Station Beach, before continuing to Lo So Shing village. Along the way, explore the historic kamikaze caves, used during World War II, and enjoy the local seafood restaurants in Sok Kwu Wan.
Look out for: A peaceful swim at Lo So Shing Beach—often empty during weekdays.
Getting there: Take the ferry from Central Pier 4 to Yung Shue Wan.
Kam Shan Family Walk, New Territories
Distance: 1 km | Time: 30 minutes or more
Known as Monkey Mountain, Kam Shan is home to over 2,000 rhesus macaques. This short, easy trail is a great introduction to nature in Hong Kong, featuring views over Shek Lei Pui Reservoir. While the monkeys are generally harmless, it’s important not to feed them. The walk loops back along Golden Hill Road, or you can extend the hike by continuing along the MacLehose Trail.
Look out for: Both rhesus and long-tailed macaques, as well as turtles in the reservoirs.
Getting there: Bus No. 72 or No. 81 to the Shek Lei Pui Reservoir bus stop.
Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve, New Territories
Distance: 4 km | Time: 1.5 hours
Tai Po Kau is a haven for birdwatchers, with its rich subtropical forest housing over 100 species of trees and a variety of wildlife. The reserve features several colour-coded trails, with the blue trail offering a peaceful walk alongside streams and shaded woodlands. This is a perfect spot for nature lovers seeking tranquility and the chance to spot birds like the striking scarlet minivet.
Look out for: A wide variety of bird species, including the Chinese bulbul and spotted doves.
Getting there: Bus No. 72A from Tai Wai MTR Station.
Hiking Dos and Don’ts
Do pack snacks, plenty of water, and one of the excellent Countryside Series maps.
Do bring a phone, but remember that not all areas have network coverage.
Do download helpful apps like the Enjoy Hiking and Hiking Trail HK apps.
Do hike with a companion for safety, and always inform someone of your plans if hiking alone.
Don’t damage or pick plants, and avoid approaching wild animals.
Don’t leave any litter behind; most trails don’t have bins, so bring your trash with you.
Best Hiking Months:
October to March offers the most pleasant weather for hiking, although air quality tends to improve in the summer. For shorter hikes, summer can still be enjoyable, as long as you stay hydrated and avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day (noon to 3 pm).
With Hong Kong’s efficient public transport system, these easy-to-access hikes are perfect for a quick nature escape without straying too far from the city’s dynamic urban core. Whether you’re hiking for solitude, family fun, or simply to enjoy stunning views, these trails offer the perfect way to experience Hong Kong’s natural beauty.
