We are blessed here in Hong Kong with the most amazing hiking paths, but some hikes become even more amazing when you find a chance to pause and gander at the amazing views. What is even better is that some of these hikes are easy and family-friendly, so nobody misses experiencing the best views. This city never gets tiresome when you have the opportunity to see all the varying sights. Whether you are looking at the busy city skyline, beautiful beaches, or lush jungle, here are some of the must-do hikes. Don’t forget to bring a camera and plenty of water.
This is a favorite family-friendly stroller walk. The walk up is steep but completely possible with a pram. Starting at the Pok Fu Lam Country Park, you are rewarded with beautiful views of the reservoir. The one-way walk should take between 30 min - 1 hour. Once you have arrived at The Peak, you will be rewarded with amazing panoramic views of most of Hong Kong Island.
Distance: 2.5 km (one-way) | Duration: 45 mins | Difficulty: Easy
This is a seriously challenging step-climbing hike, but it is worth it. Starting at Parkview, you will first walk up Violet Hill, which gives you beautiful city views. Next up is the dreaded stairs of "The Twins." Step climbing is difficult, but you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Repulse Bay and Stanley once it is done. Catch a bus or taxi down to Stanley at the end of the walk and enjoy lunch or dinner there.
Distance: 7.1 km | Duration: 2-3 hours | Difficulty: Challenging
This is a great walk that offers amazing views of Hong Kong Island, Peng Chau, and Mui Wo beach. As the walk is completely paved, it is possible to fit older children to walk, but it would be too challenging for little ones. Either direction is great, but you can refuel in Discovery Bay if you start at Mui Wo. There is very little shade, so if you are hiking during the summer, make sure you have a hat to cover your scalp from the burning sun and plenty of water to keep you hydrated.
Distance: 7.75 km | Duration: 2 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
If you are looking for a serious challenge, then this is the best hike for you. This difficult hike starts at Mui Wo and then climbs up Sunset Peak with an elevation of 869 meters, then moving on up to Lantau Peak with an elevation of 934 meters. You will be gifted with incredible views of Hong Kong, Macau, and China from up there. On top of the glorious views, you can also experience the magnificent flora of the countryside. Silvergrass can be seen during autumn.
Distance: 15.5 km | Duration: 5.5 - 6.5 hours | Difficulty: Very Challenging
This hike offers you stunning views of Sai Kung, beaches, and peaks. The walk begins at High Island Reservoir East Dam, a 30-minute taxi ride from Sai Kung Town. You will then straddle the hillside, where you will find stunning views of the beaches in Long Ke Wan, Sai Wan, and Ham Tin. After enjoying the beaches, the hike continues uphill toward Pak Tam Au, where you can catch a bus back to Sai Kung Town. If you are really lucky, you may even see a monkey or two on your journey.
Distance: 16 km | Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty: Challenging
If you are looking for an amazing shot for your Instagram and you are fine with heights, then you will love this hike. Located in the Ma On Shan Country Park, this is a very challenging climb and hike. Many parts of the hike are barrier-free, which gives you unobstructed views of Hong Kong; however, there have been some serious accidents up here. Please take care, and don't do anything too dangerous.
Distance: 7.3 km | Duration: 4-5 hours | Difficulty: Very Challenging
Not every hike needs to be a challenge for the views. This route is a leisurely stroll that is completely paved so strollers can be used. The walk can be done in either direction however if you begin at Parkview most of it will be downhill. Tai Tam offers some stunning views of the water and lush greenery. When you reach Tai Tam Reservoir you could catch a bus or taxi to Stanley to refuel.
Distance: 4km | Duration: 1 hour | Difficulty: Easy
For an amazing 360 degrees view over Kowloon and Hong Kong, Lion Rock is a must-do hike. This is a reasonably challenging hike that has some very steep sections and several stairs. Unlike some hikes here, Lion Rock is very well signposted, so you will not get lost. Plus, getting there is easy as you can begin your hike at Wong Tai Sin MTR. The views of Hong Kong and Kowloon are epic.
Distance: 6.9 km | Duration: 2-3 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
This is another challenging yet rewarding hike. There are many steps and a steep incline of 856 meters, but the views are worth it. You will enjoy wandering over the rolling peaks and ridges of the New Territories, which may feel like another world. The hike begins at Hok Tau Reservoir and ends at Tai Mei Tuk. There is not much shade, so do make sure you take enough water and sun protection.
Distance: 12 km | Duration: 5 hours | Difficulty: Challenging
If you keen to stay on Hong Kong Island but fancy a change from the busy Victoria Peak, then High West is the hike for you. Offering stunning 180-degree views of Sai Ying Pun, Kennedy Town, Pok Fu Lam, and Cyberport and a slightly challenging climb. There are many different walks around High West depending on whether you begin, but this hike begins at Pok Fu Lam Road near HKU. The walks take you through Lung Fu Shan Country Park and Pinewood Battery and then on to High West's summit.
Distance: 2.5 km | Duration: 1 hour | Difficulty: Moderate
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