The Peak Hike
The Peak is Hong Kong’s most famous attractions but most people only see the view from the top after being delivered there by the Hong Kong tram. Instead, you can watch the views unfold before you as you climb the side of the Peak. It’s far more impressive.
Difficulty: 1/5. As a hike it’s simple. The whole walk is on the tarmac. The whole walk is also uphill and parts are steep. You can take regular breaks along the way and return to the city via the Peak Tram.
Lamma Island Family Hike Trail
Hong Kong’s great green getaway; Lantau is a fantastic location for a breath of fresh air and break from the constant hustle that is Hong Kong Island. Just a short ferry ride from Hong Kong Island, Lantau is famed for its more laidback, long hair, hippy appeal. Much of the attraction lies in the fact that Lantau allows no cars; transport is by two wheels or two legs only.
Difficulty: 1/5. This is a wholly paved route between the two villages with only a handful of moderate inclines.
Dragon's Back Hike
The urban hike moniker is thanks to the Dragon’s Back being within breathing distance of Hong Kong’s skyscrapers, yet set amidst complete, unspoiled beauty. Found on Hong Kong Island’s wild south side, the Dragon’s Back winds across the ridges of Shek O Country Park affording superb views over Clearwater Bay and several uninhabited islands stranded out in the South China Sea.
Difficulty: 3/5. The Dragon’s Back is sometimes characterized as one of the easier Hong Kong hikes. It is, but it’s no stroll along the promenade either. It does require a decent level of physical effort and boots. That said, it is certainly accessible to the non-hiker, nor does it require special equipment.
Lantau Peak Hike
Lantau Peak is Hong Kong’s second tallest mountain – Ma On Shan is the tallest but only has a service road and no dedicated hiking trails. There are several hiking trails crossing Lantau Peak, although one of the most popular and possibly the most difficult is a very early morning ascent from foot to peak to make it for the sunrise. The wisdom of climbing a very steep and potentially dangerous mountain in the dark we’ll leave to you and your insurance company.
Difficulty: 3/5. The sheer incline makes this a difficult climb. Some of the paths are narrow and the steps crumbling. It's a hike that requires physical fitness.
Lion Rock Hike
If you’re looking to get dirt under your fingernails and grass in your underpants, this is the hike for you. Set in the great green outdoors of Hong Kong’s New Territories, Lion Rock Country Park is one of the original Hong Kong parks. It forms part of the MacLehose Trail, a hiking path that crosses the New Territories from east to west. This hike, up to Lion Rock, is actually part 5 of the MacLehose Trail and as such well signposted.
Difficulty: 4/5. Parts of the Lion Rock climb require all fours scrambling. You’ll need to be fit to reach the summit, walk the path and descend back down. It’s a hike you’ll certainly feel the next morning.