Spellbound by the grandeur of distinctive skyline, unbelievable modern amenities, and lip-smacking cuisines that Hong Kong has long been known to offer, most travellers don't know about the natural side of this amazing travel destination in Asia.
If you are someone who wants to experience something adventurous, then get ready with your hiking gear and follow these picturesque hiking trails in Hong Kong which promise to reward you with unbelievable sights and life-changing experiences.
So, let's take a look at the ones that made to our list of best hiking trails in Hong Kong.
1.) Lantau Peak
For many out here, it might be hard to believe that such panoramic views could possibly be experienced in a metropolis like Hong Kong. But the 934-metre-high Lantau Peak on Lantau Island, the second highest peak in Hong Kong, paves way for a perfect hiking trail that will change your perception of Hong Kong as a destination.
Once you hike all the way to the top, the sunrise views of the landscape will leave you surprised, for the beauty of such intact natural wonders will exceed your expectations.
Where is it: Lantau Island
When to do it: December to February
Preferred route: Ngong Ping - Lantau Peak Sunrise Point
Difficulty level: Moderate
DIY or not: Yes
What to pack: Good quality hiking shoes, 3 litres of water, snacks, hat, sunblock, fleece.
2.) Wan Chai Gap Road
Holidaying in Hong Kong with your loved one? Follow Wan Chai Gap trail and it could very well turn out to be 'a walk to remember' for you. The trail starts from the famous Lee Tung Street where wedding cards are designed and printed, and goes on to lead the hikers up to lush green expanses with occasional glimpses of the iconic Hong Kong skyline.
Apart from all the amazing things you see and experience en route, don't forget to visit the famous nine-metre-high Lover's Rock that is believed to bless couples with happiness and fertility. Seems like love's always in the air here.
Where is it: Wan Chai District, Hong Kong
When to do it: December to February
Preferred route: Lee Tung Avenue - Wan Chai Gap Road - Bowen Road - Lover's Rock - Police Museum
Difficulty level: Moderate
DIY or not: Yes
What to pack: Around 2 litres of water, good quality hiking shoes, some cash to spend at the streetside stalls.
3.) Ma On Shan Hike
Experiences in Hong Kong can range from relaxing at a sandy beach to catching bird's-eye view from atop the second highest peak in New Territories at 702 metres. That's the Ma On Shan hike for you!
What starts with cozy weather and a fairly easy trail that makes its way through lush green forests and the abandoned Hakka village, soon turns into a full-fledged trek. During the course of this 7-hour hike, you will make your way past vibrant forest flowers on either side of the trail, enjoy breathtaking coast views, and the temple of the Goddess of Sea in the fishing town of Sai Kung. The view from atop Ma On Shan is just too surreal to believe that you are in one of the most densely populated regions in the world. Quite a wholesome hiking experience, isn't it?
Where is it: Ma On Shan, New Territories, Hong Kong
When to do it: December to February
Preferred route: Ma On Shan Country Trail - Ngong Ping Plateau - Sai Kung
Difficulty level: Nearly difficult
DIY or not: Not recommended
What to pack: 2 litres of water, hiking shoes, sunblock, some snacks, waterproof fleece, extra clothes for return journey, and a small towel.
4.) Tai Mo Shan Hike
Still can't get enough of hiking in Hong Kong? Why not take it a little higher, rather the highest! Set out for a hike to Tai Mo Shan, the highest peak in Hong Kong, and brace for picture-perfect 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape when you reach the summit at 957 metres above sea level.
This hiking trail to the top of Tai Mo Shan is bound to delight nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. And guess what? It's not as difficult as it might seem from its height.
Where is it: Tsuen Wan District, Hong Kong
When to do it: December to February
Preferred route: Tai Mo Shan Road and Route Twisk crossing - Tai Mo Shan - Tai Mo Shan Road - Weather Radar Station
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
DIY or not: Yes
What to pack: Around 2 litres of water, good quality walking shoes, sunblock, some snacks, and waterproof fleece.
5.) Victoria Peak to South Side
The famous Victoria Harbour of Hong Kong doesn't look more beautiful from any place than the Victoria Peak. At 552 metres above sea level, it's the highest peak on Hong Kong Island from where you can also get panoramic views of South China Sea and its tiny islands. This 7-km hike is definitely one of those must-have experiences here.
It starts with a funicular rail ride, also known as Peak Tram, that takes you to the height of 357 metres. From there, you start hiking to Victoria Peak, making your way through lush green forests of Pok Fu Lam Country Park, the Aberdeen Country Park and end at one of the 15 conventional reservoirs of Hong Kong (Aberdeen Reservoir).
Where is it: The Peak, Hong Kong Island
When to do it: December to February
Preferred route: Peak Tram - Victoria Peak - Pok Fu Lam Country Park - Aberdeen Country Park - Aberdeen Reservoir
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
DIY or not: Yes
What to pack: Extra clothes for return journey, around 2 litres of water, good quality walking shoes, hat, some snacks, and waterproof fleece.
6.) Dragon's Back Hike
If you wake up someday wishing to just escape from midtown madness into the wilderness, Dragon's Back hiking trail in Hong Kong is the quick fix that shall come to your rescue. It's a kind of trail that a hiker with a diary and a camera would love to follow.
As you begin the hike from Shek O Road, a fascinating tree tunnel, you will soon reach Shek O Peak which serves as a welcome spot to refresh yourself. You can take a quick break here while taking in the panoramic views of Tai Long Wan bay and Tung Lung Island. Once you reach Dragon's Back, don't be surprised if you find the company of several colourful butterflies besides scenic views of the vast blue sea.
And what if it all ends with you getting to relax at a stunning shore with endless blue waves? That's how this hiking trail ends when you reach Tai Long Wan, a 3-km-wide bay. Sounds quite unreal, doesn't it?
Where is it: Shek O, Southern District, Hong Kong
When to do it: December to February
Preferred route: Shek O Road near To Tei Wan Village - Shek O Peak - Dragon's Back - Pottinger Gap - Tai Long Wan
Difficulty level: Nearly difficult (No shelter or refreshment stalls for the most part of the trail)
DIY or not: Yes
What to pack: 3 litres of water, good quality hiking shoes, hat, adequate amount of eatables, waterproof fleece.
7.) Lamma Island Hike
No Hong Kong tour is complete without experiencing the richness of its local culture and heritage. And this hiking trail in Hong Kong not only brings you closer to abundant natural beauty but also to the lesser-exposed culture, lifestyle, and intriguing history of this region.
A slow boat ride from the typhoon shelter in Aberdeen takes you to Mo Tat Wan in Lamma Island, past the expansive views of a vast sea, dotted with islands here and there. From there, you start hiking to Tin Hau temple on the waterfront, followed by a hearty meal at open-air restaurants in Sok Kwu Wan. The trail culminates as you reach the streets of Yung Shue Wan village after taking in the views of Lo So Shing Beach.
Where is it: Lamma Island, Hong Kong
When to do it: December to February
Preferred route: Aberdeen typhoon shelter - Mo Tat Wan - Sok Kwu Wan - Lo So Shing Beach - Yung Shue Wan village
Difficulty level: Moderate
DIY or not: Not recommended
What to pack: Extra clothes for return journey, around 1.5 litres of water, good quality walking shoes, sunblock, and waterproof fleece.
8.) Geopark Hiking Tour
Nature surprises you when you expect it the least. And the hiking trails in Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark are perfect examples that glorify its beautiful landscape. The guided hiking tour of the geopark starts from the High Island Reservoir route in the Sai Kung East Country Park.
Following Maclehose trail Section 2 not only satiates the adventurer in you but also keeps rewarding you with the views of bewitching landscape comprising remote valleys, hexagonal volcanic rock columns, stunning coastlines, rugged hills, sea caves, citylights and more. As you wind your way through serrated trail that ends at Sheng Yiu Hakka Village Museum, you'll be able to get closer to the tangible remains of the bygone era.
Where is it: Sai Kung, Hong Kong
When to do it: December to February
Preferred route: High Island Reservoir route - hexagonal volcanic rock columns - Sheng Yiu Hakka Village Museum
Difficulty level: Moderate
DIY or not: Yes (only for experienced hikers)
What to pack: It's recommended that you pack extra clothes for return journey, around 2 litres of water, snacks, good quality hiking or walking shoes, sunblock, and waterproof fleece.
So, aren't you already intrigued by these picturesque hiking trails in Hong Kong that you probably thought never existed? Well, to believe, you have to experience it.
Let us know your favourite in the comments below. If you have already visited some of the best hiking trails in Hong Kong, create your own story here and inspire other adventure lovers.
In association with Hong Kong Tourism Board.