Kids Hike To Secret Pineapple Mountain In Hong Kong

Get the fam together and head to this remote part in Tuen Mun to witness the only natural canyon formation in Hong Kong, where sloping valleys open up for breathtaking views!

This city has many amazing and family-friendly hikes, but perhaps none quite like Po Lo Shan, translating to Pineapple Mountain in Cantonese. The mountain was named due to the natural dark yellow rock formations resembling the sweet crust of the famous Hong Kong pineapple bun. However, many also refer to the “Grand Canyon of Hong Kong” as it is the only natural canyon formation in the city.

HOW TO GET TO STARTING POINT OF PO LO SHAN:

• From Central, take the Tung Chung line to Nam Cheong Station. Then change to the West Rail Line and take the MTR to Sui Hong Station. Take exit D, then take the Light Rail train 505 or 615 to Leung King Station.
• Alternatively, take the Light Rail train 505, 615, or 615P from Sui Hong Station to San Wai and commence the hike from there.

There are two starting points for this hike:

• If you get off at Leung King Station, cross the tracks to Leung King Plaza and take a right. Follow the path and pass Sai Wan Court and Leung Wai House until you reach the Leung Tin Au trail.
• If you get off at Sai Wai Station, cross the tracks and take a right and then a left into Sai Wai Court and continue walking until you see a barrier gate for Leung King Estate. Walk past the gate, and look for a path on your left-hand side for Castle Peak Range Road and from there it is an uphill walk to Leung Tin Au.

HIKING HONG KONG’S “GRAND CANYON”:

You and the kiddos will have reached the correct location once you see a blue sign stating “Dangerous Road, No Trespassing”, where military drills occasionally take place. To welcome you to the start of your hike, you’ll be greeted by the stunning sloping canyon. Although not as grand as its American counterpart, it’s still a sight to behold and ideal for taking amazing pics for the gram!

Do be careful when hiking here as there’s nothing but sharp rocks at the bottom! Make sure your steps are firm as the sandy ground is slippery and there are dangerous ridges and outcrops.

It’s definitely worth sticking around for sunset if you have the opportunity, as the canyon is transformed by warm hues of deep red and orange. However, do not linger enjoying the sunset for too long as the trail is not illuminated at night.

HOW TO GO BACK HOME:

Once you and your family have completed your picnic and well-needed rest, and you’re ready to head back home, continue along the path and look for another blue sign that says “Dangerous Road, No Trespassing.” Along this trail, you have mesmerizing views of the South China Sea. Do not take any of the smaller roads, as most are dead ends.

Continue on the main path leading to Sergeant Arnall Memorial Park, where you will encounter a roadblock. Take a right on Nim Wan Road and continue towards Ha Pak Nai Village. From here, take the minibus 33 to Tin Shui Wai Station and you will have completed your hike of Pineapple Mountain.

IMPORTANT NOTES BEFORE HIKING PINEAPPLE MOUNTAIN:

• Tsing Shan Firing Range – Some parts of this hike are situated close to the Tsing Shan Firing Range, which can occasionally be used for military exercises during the week. To avoid disappointment, check their firing schedule before going on the hike. You can always hike on the weekends as no training sessions are held then.
• It is recommended that you bring plenty of water and sun protection, as there are no kiosks or shops available after Leung Tin Au.
• We do recommend that you bring your tweens and teens to this hike as this hike can be rather exposed, and there are some tricky moments during the hike not suitable for very young children.
• It is also advised that you wear good hiking boots or shoes suitable for long walks, as some parts of the hike can be rather deceptive with slippery areas masked by sand.
• Hike duration: Approx. 3 hours
• Distance: Approx. 6 kilometers
• Total ascent: Approx. 235 meters