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Some people associate Hong Kong as the metropolitan, business district of South East Asia. Whilst that is completely true, there’s another side to the city which strays far from the bustling skyscrapers and office blocks we all know. Hiking is one of the best things to do here, whether you’re an outdoor junkie for lengthy trails or simply dipping your toes in with short and sweet routes. What’s more, the diversity of city and countryside lends the opportunity for views unlike anywhere else in the world. CSP Times’ contributor Get High HK rounds up five hikes with spectacular views to embark on.
Kowloon Peak | Image courtesy of Get High HK
Kowloon Peak
Kowloon Peak is a must-do for thrill seekers and Instagrammers alike. At approximately 1,975 ft., the highest peak on Kowloon is a challenging climb regardless of which route you take. However, to make it worth the time and effort, there’s no better spot than Suicide Cliff to get that perfect shot with the entire city as your backdrop. Start your hike in the afternoon to catch the sunset at Suicide Cliff. While this involves a short hike back down in the dark, the stunning view makes it totally worth it.
How to get there: Get off at Choi Hung MTR Exit C1 and catch the 11 or 1A green minibus from the minibus stops right outside. Make sure to tell the bus driver that you want to go to Fei Ngo Shan.
Difficulty: 7/10
Lion Rock | Image courtesy of Get High HK
Lion Rock
Hong Kong’s most iconic hike is popular in the day and night. Climb up in the late afternoon to watch the sunset and take in the spectacular city lights on your walk back down. Named after its lion-shaped rock on the top, it is one of the most popular trails in Hong Kong and for good reason. Besides the lion rock, there are two more peaks at the summit and you can move between the three to get the best views and photos.
How to get there: From Wong Tai Sin MTR, take a taxi to Sha tin Pass Road to “Lion Rock Peak” for 10 minutes (~$25)*. Alternatively, walk to the trailhead for about an hour.
Difficulty: 5/10
Rhino Rock | Image courtesy of Get High HK
Rhino Rock
Rhino Rock is definitely a lesser-known hike, but it’s well worth it on a good day. The hike offers stunning views of Stanley’s glistening blue waters. This adventurous hike will have you on all fours trying to get to the Rhino Rock, all-too-fitting given the name of this trail. For those who dare, there is a rope which can be used to climb onto the rhino’s head, which will look great for a picture.
How to get there: From Sai Wan Ho MTR Exit B, cross the footbridge to reach the bus stop and take bus no.14 towards Stanley Fort. Get off at the last stop – “Stanley Fort, Wong Ma Kok Road”.
Difficulty: 7/10
High West | Image courtesy of Get High HK
High West
High West is a great alternative to the crowded and touristy Victoria Peak. There are several benches, parks and open areas to relax at throughout the route. Once you have successfully climbed the 2,000+ steps, you will be far above the urban jungle and will be greeted by a spectacular 360 degree view of Hong Kong. You can come back down the same way or take another trail to grab a bite at Victoria Peak after.
How to get there: Start the hike from either Kennedy Town or HKU MTR station. Follow directions to Pinewood Battery and then continue on Lung Fu Shan Fitness Trail.
Difficulty: 7/10
Cape D’Aguilar | Image courtesy of Get High HK
Cape D’Aguilar
Unlike other hikes that make you work hard for good views, Cape D’Aguilar is a flat walk that leads to a lighthouse and caves against a panoramic view of the sea. With so much to offer, you can easily spend the entire day at this gorgeous spot. Start off by checking out the skeleton of killer whale “Hoi Wai” outside the Institute of Marine Science. She had been performing in Ocean Park for 18 years until her death in 1997. Then, spend the rest of the day climbing up rock formations and exploring hidden caves. Even on a hot day, you’re guaranteed a cooling breeze as you’re completely surrounded by water.
How to get there: Take bus no. 9 from Shau Kei Wan MTR towards Shek O and get off at Cape D’Aguilar Road. From there, it takes less than an hour to get to the caves.
Difficulty: 4/10
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