PUI O CAMPSITE & SUNSET PEAK

These are my favorite Adventure site in Hong Kong. Pui O campsite offers a modern camping experience with great facilities and restaurants nearby. It has clean lavatory, shower areas and changing rooms. The beach is clean and well maintained by Hong Kong's Leisure & Cultural Service Department (LCSD). The Campground has two selection, one within the cubicle (metal fencing camp ground) and the other, open type camp ground. The camping facility offers barbecue-pit, picnic tables and chairs. Bringing your own cooking stove is possible as well because there's a perfect place for it. Fresh water for cooking and dish washing area is also available. The best part is that the beach offers not only refreshing swim but it's rich with sea shells and fish that can be harvested and consumed within the campsite or you even take it home.

SUNSET PEAK (869masl) - is the 3rd highest mountain peak in Hong Kong. The range offers great scenery atop and the range is link to many great mountain peaks as well, like LIN FA SHAN (766masl) and YI TUNG SHAN (747masl). It starts at Luk Tei Tung and Ends at Pak Kung Au.

Feel free to visit this beautiful Campsite and feel the power being rejuvenated and at one with nature.

Friendly Reminder

Enjoy The Wilderness & Leave No Trace

HOW TO SELECT A GOOD CAMPSITE

I'm an Outdoor enthusiast and I really like doing Camper; with that said I also met a number of people who wish to do camping but they don't know how and where to start, so they end up not going for any outdoor activities and never attempt to do something new in their lives. This article will give you some ideas before you get started. 

If you're a new Camper and just getting started... I highly suggest that you should visit some of the camping ground preferably close to your home which is managed by the government agencies like Bureau of Land Management or Country Park Management Office. Be sure to choose the one that has perfect scenic spot that you, your family and friends would love and enjoy.

CHOOSING YOUR CAMPING SPOT:

• Choose a Tent spot that is relatively high ground because in this manner the rain will flow away from the tent in case if it rains and this will prevent your gear from getting wet as well. Avoid setting your tent along the slope though.
• Pick a site that has shades during the hotter time of the day. So, choose the one that's near the trees.
• Check if the campsite is near the water source because you will be needing plenty of water for cooking, washing, drinking and even showering.
• Check if the campsite has grilling station, picnic tables and chairs.
• Check if the campsite has enough space for you to use a cooking stove.
• Be sure to check if you can build a campfire because nothing's more fun than roasting a Mallows with your children or stay warm during the cold season. (See if the fire won't spread out so pick an area where there's enough space and flat).
• If your camping with your kids be sure to check if the campground has a nearby playground or play areas or a huge space to fly a kite or play some ball game like beach volleyball or beach football.
• Check if the location is near the lake or beach for some fishing, boating, swimming or even snorkeling. 

Backpacking is FUN! So before you go and experience the outdoors, practice setting up your Tent on daylight and at night if possible in your yard to estimate the space you need on the campsite and to get familiar with your gear. Most of the camping ground are not made according to your liking even if you request from the attendant of the country park about your preferred location and with that said, you should clean your preferred spot from twigs, rocks or vines because these will cause damage to the base layer of the tent and might puncture your sleeping matte. 

Finally, experience is the best teacher and soon you'll realized more do's and don't as well as the proper gear to take along with you depending on how many days your going to be in the Campsite. Even thinking of bringing a purifying agent/tablet if you don't get clean water.

Have fun camping and enjoy the outdoors!

Friendly Reminder

Enjoy The Wilderness & Leave No Trace

CAPE D'AGUILAR

HOW TO GET THERE:

• Take the MTR to SHAU KEI WAN
• Leave the MTR Station via Exit A1 or A3 (Shau Kei Wan Bus Terminus)
• Board into Bus No.9 or Green Mini Bus heading towards Shek O
• Alight at the Bus Station near Cape D' Aguilar Road.

TRAIL INFO:

• Difficulty: 1/5 
• Duration: 3.5 - 4.0 Hours
• Distance: 3.5 Km
• Type: Loop Trail
• GPS Coverage: Excellent
• Phone Coverage: Excellent

LOGISTICS:

• Packs: 8L - 18L
• Liquid Supplement: 1L - 1.5L
• Food Supplement: Bread, Power Bar or Fruit
• Clothing: Shorts and Shirt
• Shoes: Proper Hiking Shoes (Specially if you take the Rockies) 
• Extras: (Summer) Sunglasses, Hat &Sun Cream. (Winter) Wind Breaker & Convertible Pants.

LET'S GO! 

Cape D' Aguilar Bus Station

Okay, I have two suggestions so you won't miss the bus stop at Cape D'Aguilar. Option 1: Tell the driver ahead of your journey that your going to get off at the bus station at Cape D'Aguilar. Option 2: Sit  on the upper front deck of the bus and peel your eyes because when you see the "T" junction road you need to get off at the bus station with the "Blue Colored Sign" that says Cape D'Aguilar.

Walk alongside of the road  until you reach the round about where you can locate the starting point as well. (Be very careful around here!)

STARTING POINT
From here onward, you will be walking on concrete road but don't worry because you will be covered by the shades of trees.

To reach the Marine Reserved Area is by simply walking all the way downhill until you each the Main Gate.

ENTRY POINT #1
This entry point is just another option to get to the rocky part of the island and the other one is just alongside of the main gate.

MAIN GATE
Entry Point #2. There will be a foot path along the right side of the main gate, take that and hike alongside of the green metal fencing. 

Hike downhill and you eventually hit the shoreline and please beware of the High Voltage Antennas along the trail.

Enjoy the moment along the shoreline and the rockies. This area is protected by the Marine Conservation of Hong Kong so please act accordingly and beware of the sharp rocky pathways.

The best part of the trail is to Trek your way to the Marine Reserved Facility along the rocky shoreline than walking on the concrete pathways. Please be very careful on the slippery rocks!

When your done Trekking along the Rockies, you should end up finding this signs on the main road and the Cave of  Cape D'Aguilar is just adjacent to this signboards and you can actually hear a loud flow of the water within the cave.

CAPE D'AGUILAR CAVE

MARINE RESERVED MAIN OFFICE

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TRAIL

Like I mentioned on the Trail Info, this trail is LOOP Trail and the way to get yourself out from this area is to walk on the concrete pathways and when you reached the main gate again, just simply walk along the side the green fencing again until you get to your Entry Point.

Walk uphill on the concrete road until you reach the Bus Station at the main entrance which will take you back to Shau Kei Wan MTR Station.





Friendly Reminder
Enjoy The Wilderness & Leave No Trace

HONG KONG TRAIL SECTION 4

HOW TO GET THERE:

The easiest and the fastest way is to take NWFB No.15 starting at the Exchange Square Bus Terminus heading towards the PEAK and get off at Wan Chai Gap by the end of Stubbs Road. Then take the Aberdeen Reservoir Road downhill for a short distance to begin Section 4.

TRAIL INFO: 

• Difficulty: 2/5 (Easy Hike)
• Distance: 7.5 Km
• Duration: 2.0 Hour
• Terrain: 50% / 50% of Natural trail and well maintained trail with a combination of concrete stairs, water catchment and uphill road. 
• Scenery: There's perfect greenery on this trail and when you get to an opening, you will have glimpses of Aberdeen Reservoir and Ocean Park (Hong Kong's Amusement/Themed Park).
• GPR Coverage: Excellent
• Phone Coverage: Great

LOGISTICS:

• Packs: 4L - 8L 
• Liquid Supplements: 500 ml  > 800 ml
• Food Supplement: Power Bar or Fruit
• Clothing: (Summer) Shorts & Shirt (Winter) + Wind Breaker and Convertible Pants
• Extras: (Some are optional) Shirt, Hat, Sunglasses and Mosquito Repellent and Sun Screen.

LET'S GO!

A friendly sign post next to the Information Board. You will see plenty of this sign post in the trail to ensure your safety on this Trail.

ENTRY POINT
Alright, after spending a few second at the information board and knowing your trail path, here is the main Entrance to Section 4. 

Like I mentioned, the trail is carefully marked with this kind of post so please don't get confused on your route. 

As you get deeper into the trail...you will feel the comfort of shade and shelter from the trees and the coolness of the breeze passing between the and through the trail.

Well this section is very refreshing! This photo is actually taken on top of the bridge but don't hesitate to go in and re-hydrate yourself during summer hike. A pretty good place to have your photo taken while the other person is on the opposite side (on the bridge) but be careful on the slippery rocks. 

OCEAN PARK
Located at Aberdeen but a pretty good view along the trail.

After enjoying a moment on the open section of the trail, now it's time to get inside the wilderness again. Another dome type shelter from the trees will continue to give shelter along the trail.

It's very quiet around here knowing Hong Kong is a small City, but and all you can hear is just the sound of water cascading, birds singing and the rejuvenating sounds of the forest in the modern wilderness of Hong Kong. "Pretty impressive!" - I might say.

On a clear day, if you get lucky...you will have a chance to see the Aberdeen Reservoir and its neighborhood.

MOUNT CAMERON
After hiking through the natural trail, you will get to meet another concrete road with a wooden pavilion nearby. The Road is called "Black Link's" and at the opposite side of the road, you will see a sign post again that will lead you towards you exit point. The arrow pointing to the left will lead you back to your starting point at Wan Chai Gap Road and the one on the right will lead you to Wong Nei Chung Gap Road. I suggest you to take the route to the right to continue with the original trail!

MOUNT NICHOLSON
As you end the hike you will be walking along side with Mt. Nicholson and it is really very entertaining on this section because you will have plenty of opening to see the Repulse Bay Beach and Golf Course, Twin Peak, Violet Hill and Parkview ...these are some of the best part to expect on your way out to finish the Hike.

Even though this trail is very easy, it is rather enjoyable because of its scenic views! I usually run when I take this section and it's really a perfect place for it but you need to be careful because the senior citizens are doing their early morning walk around here as well.





Friendly Reminder
Enjoy The Wilderness & Leave NO Trace

HONG KONG TRAIL SECTION 3

HOW TO GET THERE:

Take public transport to Aberdeen Reservoir Road. Walk up Peel Rise by Pui Tak Canossian College for about 30 minutes to the starting point of Hong Kong Trail Section 3.

Transport routes available are:

City Bus:

No. 7 - running between Central Ferry Piers and Shek Pai Wan in Aberdeen

No. 76 - running between Shek Pai Wan in Aberdeen and Causeway Bay (Moreton Terrace)

NWFB:

No. 95 - running betwee Ap Lei Chau and Shek Pai Wan in Aberdeen

Mini Bus:

No. 52 - running between Shek Pai Wan in Aberden and Chung Hom Kok in Stanley (Ma Hang)

For your return journey, walk down Aberdeen Reservoir Road for about 15 minutes to Wan Chai Gap for public transport:

NWFB:

No. 15 - running between Central (Exchange Square) and the Peak

No. 15B - running between Tin Hau MTR Station and the Peak (Sundays and Public Holiday only)

TRAIL INFO:

• Difficulty: 2/5
• Distance: 6.5 Km
• Duration: 2.5 Hrs.
• Terrain: 20% Concrete and 80% Natural Trail
• GPS Coverage: Good
• Phone Coverage: Great
• Route: Peel Rise > Wan Chai Gap

LOGISTIC:

• Pack: 8L - 10L 
• Liquid Supplement: 500ml > 1000ml
• Clothing: Shorts & Shirt (Summer), Leggings & Wind Breaker (Winter)
• Shoes: Regular rubber shoes works (but proper Hiking Shoes is better)
• Food Supplement: Fruit or Snack (Optional)
• Extras: Hiking Pole (Optional), Extra shirt, Hat, Mosquito Repellent & Sunglasses

LET'S GO!

STARTING POINT
(Roughly about 1/4hrs from Aberdeen Reservoir & 30 minutes from Chi Fu Estate)

Hong Kong Trail Section 3: Information Board

Another friendly trail sign; the trail is fully covered with signs to ensure your safe journey inside the trail.

Section 3 is perfectly shaded by trees so walking in this trail is very comfortable and cool and this is an awesome hiking ground for beginners, friends and family. 

Surprisingly beautiful. This stream comes to life during wet season in Hong Kong, the flow of water is very cool and refreshing.

When you reach this bridge you need to turn and proceed to the right side and try not to take the stairs.

DECISION  POINT
This is where you need to make a decision whether if you will turn right and end at Aberdeen Reservoir or turn left to continue with Hong Kong Trail Section 3 and end at Wan Chai Gap. Both will take at least 30 minutes between either point. I highly suggest that you proceed with the rest of the Hong Kong Trail Section 3 and end at Wan Chai Gap because in this manner you will only need to catch NWFB No.15 or 15B to return to the city.

END POINT
Finally the trail is done! But because Hong Kong Trail Section 3 is too easy for some hikers, many will quickly jump in and continue Section 4. The starting area is immediately located near the end point of Section 3. If you decided to finish the hike though, simply walk uphill and pass the barrier gate and turn left heading towards the main road (Wan Chai Gap) and take NWFB 15 heading Central Exchange Square passing through Ruttongee Hospital, Hopewell Centre, Pacific Place, Admiralty and finally Central.






Friendly Reminder
Enjoy The Wilderness & Leave No Trace

MACLEHOSE TRAIL SECTION 2

There's no way to get to the starting point directly than to hike the first section (around 10km & 3hrs) until you reach the Starting point of Section 2 or if you want to skip hiking the first section then you must take a Blue Colored Taxi from the bus terminus at Sai Kung Country Park Visitor's Centre which roughly cost HK$50 until you reach the Pavilion next to Dolosses landmark and then from the Pavilion, simply follow the trail post marker until this starting point of Section 2.

TRANSPORT:

• (Option 1) Take the MTR to Diamond Hill Station and board in to bus 92 'til you reach its final Terminus at Sai Kung District. Then, quickly take bus 94 and get off at Sai Kung Visitor's Center. Finally, take the blue cab at the terminus and ask the taxi driver to take you at High Island Reservoir Pavilion or MacLehose Trail Section 1.
• (Option 2) Take the MTR and get off at Diamond Hill Station and leave the station by Exit B. Locate and board into 96R (available during Sundays & Public Holidays only) and get off at Sai Kung Visitor's Centre, take a blue cab and ask the driver to take you at High Island Reservoir Pavilion. You must be on the MacLehose Trail (right side when you reach the round-about but make sure that the Taxi is between the High Island Reservoir on the left-side of the cab and the Water Sports Centre on the right-side) and when you reach the Blue colored Dolosses Landmark then, all you need to do is to follow the trail until the starting point of Section 2 is reached. 

TRAIL INFO:

• Difficulty: 3/5 (Strenuous Hike)
• Distance: 13.5 km (Original Trail) if you hike SHARP PEAK then it's at least 18.5+km.
• Duration: 5 Hrs (Original) if you hike SHARP PEAK then it roughly around 7 Hrs.
• Terrain: 40% Concrete, 40% Natural and 20% Sand
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good
• GPS Coverage: Great

LOGISTIC:

• Pack: 10L - 20L Packs
• Liquid Supplement: 3L
• Food: (Optional) There are restaurants when you reach TAI LONG WAN or you can have your own food. 
• Clothing: Convertible Pants and Shirt (Summer) add Wind Breaker (Winter)
• Shoes: Be sure to wear proper hiking shoes or boots.
• Extras: Hiking Pole, Sunscreen, Sunglasses, Hat, Mini Personal First Aid Kit, Extra Shirt, Mobile Phone & Camera.

LET'S GO!

STARTING POINT
(Work your way here by following the instructions above)

LONG KE BAY
The aquatic emerald colors of Long Ke Bay. The serenity and tranquility of the camping ground along the beach side and the beautiful mountain range that your going to hike awaits.

REHABILITATION CENTRE
Respect the privacy and peacefulness of this facility...be sure not to loiter around its premises. 

CAMPING GROUND
The Campsite at Long Ke Bay. There's a water source but I'm not sure if it's clean enough to drink (better bring your purifying tablets or portable water purifier), a toilet is also available in the area. If your planning to camp here you need to make sure that you need to bring your food and all your essentials most specially your drinking water because there's no store in the area.

Hike further on a clearly marked country trail until this Pavilion is reached. A resting area and sign to have a little break and to refuel your body.

SAI WAN SHAN (314masl) Summit
It's really not that hard to get to this summit because the trail is not steep, it is rather clean and clear and and filled with trial signs along the way.

TAI LONG WAN PANORAMA
This is a very famous viewing area and by looking ahead you can actually see TAI LONG WAN, SHARP PEAK from a distance.

INTERSECTION MAP BOARD
Its's like decision making point around this junction, but all I have to say is .."Proceed towards Tai Long Wan!".. otherwise you'll miss the opportunity if seeing the greatest Camping Ground and the famous beach side Hong Kong. 

VIEWING COMPASS

At this point you are getting closer to the No.1 Adventure Haven of Sai Kung East Country Park and of course Hong Kong. When you get to TAI LONG WAN Beach, you need to cross the wooden bridge made by the locals to reach the restaurant and also the continuation of MacLehose Trail Section 2. If your doing the original concrete trail then you need to get through village and follow the concrete path and by simply tracing the trail post, but if SHARP PEAK is in your itinerary...then you need to get to the right side and along the back of the restaurant and from there...a trail uphill with rope is what you need to follow. Never fear because the path is clear until you to reach the other side of Tai Long Wan. 

After cruising through the clean and clear sand beach line, you are bound to reach the further end of Tai Long Wan beach. Enter the very obvious path uphill until you reach this section where I'm standing on the picture above. When you get here, then follow the route on the left-side (by looking at the photo) to reach the summit of Sharp Peak. 

Looking back, the trail is so beautiful and breathe taking and one must wonder "what if I have a house here?" or "..I wish I have a house here to see this perfect scenery everyday!". How ever you feel on the day that you attempt climbing Sharp Peak, I'm certain that your going to cherish every moment of it and still look forward on hiking here again.

This massive landscape is the perfect scenery of Tai Long Wan and this is only a few meters away from the summit of Sharp Peak. The feeling of being here is so amazing...imagine how much more if your doing Mount Everest!

SHARP PEAK (468masl/1535ft) SUMMIT
Up at the summit of Sharp Peak you will blessed with perfect 360 degrees Panorama of Sai Kung. On a clear day, you will see the Sai Kung West Country Park, Sai Kung East Country Park and the rest of Sai Kung Peninsula. 

The other side of the summit and below is the beach and campsite of TAI WAN.

How to leave Sharp Peak? Make your way back down to your entry path to reach the summit and at the intersection, simply bear right aiming for the radio tower until you reach the concrete road and main path of Maclehose Trail Section 2. Bear right again along the emergency calling post and aim for Pak Tam Au. Never fear again because you will pampered by the country park's sign post.

CHEK KENG
This place has a church but not in use anymore since the village is abandoned due to the modernization and development of Hong Kong. There's still some village houses that standings among the fallows field. With all the houses here and the church, it must have been very busy town in past and I'm sure that fishing is the main way of life. At Post M045 bear left and continue trekking through the concrete path until you reach Pak Tam Au road. There's a lavatory again at the end point and the bus station to return to the city is just nearby and facing the Entry Point of MacLehose Trail Section 3.

End of Section 2 and a new set of Hikers are getting ready for their own adventure.




Friendly Reminder
Enjoy Your Country Park, Enjoy Hiking and Leave NO Trace!

MACLEHOSE TRAIL SECTION 1

TRANSPORT:

Options:

• From the bus station beside Diamond Hill MTR Station, take bus 92 to its terminus at Sai Kung town.
• Bus 111 from Cenral, opposite HSBC in Queen's Road Central to Choi Hung.
• Board the Sai Kung minibus from exit C2 of Choi Hung MTR Station.
• At Sai Kung Terminus take 94 bound for Wong Shek Pier and alight at the Country Park Visitor Centre at Pak Tam Chung.
• On Sundays & Public Holidays, you can directly ride from Diamond Hill Bus Terminus by catching Bus 96R and alight at the Country Park Visitor Centre at Pak Tam Chung.
• Final option is to catch a Taxi from Sai Kung Terminus to Pak Tam Chung should cost roughly around HK$50.

TRAIL INFO:

• Difficulty: 2/5 (Strenuous Hike)
• Distance: 10.6 Km
• Duration: 3 Hours
• Terrain: 100% Concrete
• Mobile Coverage: Good
• GPS Coverage: Excellent

LOGISTIC:

• Pack: 8L - 17L
• Liquid Supplement: 1L - 2L
• Clothing: Shorts & Shirts (Summer) + Wind Breaker (Winter)
• Shoes: Regular rubber shoes works
• Extras: (Summer) Sunglasses, Sunscreen & Hat / (Winter) Wind Breaker & Convertible Pants

LET'S GO!

STARTING POINT
Start at Pak Tam Chung and walk through the clearly  marked pathways along the concrete trail heading towards the High Island Reservoir / Main Dam.

HIGH ISLAND RESERVOIR / MAIN DAM
These great wall of rocks holds perfectly in place to protect the mighty weight of water from the Reservoir.  Annually there's a Trail Walker race being held here. This is very easy because you will be walking on the flat and concreted service road at Sai Kung Man Yee Road.

WATER SPORTS CENTRE
M006 - Hong Kong has always been short of water, and imaginative scheme have been implemented to address the city's problem. Henceforth, the local government provide some recreational facilities for those who love water sports. 

Post M018 - this is a monument to perished construction workers heralds the final Dam. It was build with giant dolosses and one was placed on top to commemorate the waterfront in Sai Kung. 

The Giant Concrete Dolosses looks like a double-sided "Thor's Hammer".  This Dolosses helps protect against the approaching tide of the South China Sea.

Hong Kong Geopark Landmark next the Pavilion 

While resting at the Pavilion, this massive rock formation is very charming to photographed. The hexagonal shape of the rock is natural which makes plenty of island tourist fascinated by its beauty.

LONG KE WAN
The most famous beach area along Sai Kung East Country Park. It also provides a great camping ground for people with long weekend holidays and also the end zone of MacLehose Trail Section 1. There's a closed facility but you can actually see its interior garden and buildings but it's very quiet because it's a Special Rehabilitation Centre of Hong Kong.

END ZONE / STARTING POINT
This is actually the end point of MacLehose rail Section 1 and as well as the Starting Point of MacLehose Trail Section 2. The way to end your hike is to return by tracing your way in or continue halfway of MacLehose Trail Section 2 passing Sai Wan Shan (314masl) and when you reach M030 turn left and trek along the upper concrete path of until starting point Post M001 is reached. Your other option is to continue hiking at MacLehose Trail Section 2 passing Tai Long Wan, Sharp Peak and take the Ferry back to Wong Shek Pier near the Youth Hostel. Or, as your final exit area; just simply complete the second section until you reach Pak Tam Au Road. When you reach the public toilet, then your done with your Section 2 hike and all you need to do is to catch 96R to return to Diamond Hill MTR Station or 94 to return to Sai Kung. 

Remember that the whole trail of MacLehose is clearly covered by signage, all you need to do is to follow then wisely and don't take any short cuts unless you really know your way back to the main path.





Friendly Reminder
Enjoy Your Country Park, Enjoy Hiking & Leave No Trace!

LANTAU TRAIL SECTION 5

TRANSPO:

To Get There -

• Take either Lantau Bus No.11 or 23 from Tung Chung Bus Terminus.
• Take either Lantau Bus No.1 or 2 from Mui Wo (Silvermine Bay) Bus Terminus. 

 To Return -

• To return from Man Cheung Po, keep walking on the Lantau Trail until you reach Post L051. Then, make a right turn and walk along the water catchment until you reach Tai O Road. Take Bus No.1 to return to Mui Wo Ferry Terminal or take Bus No.11 to return to Tung Chung.

TRAIL INFO:

• Difficulty: 3/5 (Strenuous Hike)
• Distance: 7.5 Km
• Duration: 3 Hours
• Terrain: 50% Boulder Path, 30% Natural Path and 20% Concrete
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good
• GPS Coverage: Great

LOGISTICS:

• Pack/s: 20L - 25L
• Liquid Supplement: 2L
• Clothing: Shirt & Convertible Pants
• Shoes: Proper Hiking Boots
• Food: Sandwich/Fruit/Power Bar (anything will do)
• Extras: Hiking Pole, Mosquito Repellent, First Air Kit, Sunscreen (Summer), Wind Breaker (Spring & Winter), Sunglasses, Mobile Phone and Camera.

LET'S GO! 

STARTING POINT
Located at the intersection heading Tai O and Ngong Ping. Alight at the first bus stop after the junction of Tai O Road then walk back for a short distance towards this stating area. 

Take A few step and you will see the picnic area after passing the Archway and the Pavilion next to the Lavatory is the main trail. 

Immediately the trail begins on boulder pathways and you need to hike uphill until you reach the first summit of the trail. Apparently there's a section with railings and has a signage that says "Road Closed, Do Not Proceed"...it's an alternative way to climb the 1st Summit but be careful if you do this section because it's only advisable to experienced hiker only.

KWUN YAM SHAN (434masl)
After a few minutes of climbing up at the boulder pathways, the summit is reach! The view is really nice up here... a perfect 360 degrees of panoramic view of Shek Pik Reservoir, Lantau Budha, Ngong Ping, Tao O and the remainder of the hiking trail ahead.

The trail ahead, a very impressive effort on build the boulder path on this trail because some of them seems to weigh a ton. Climbing uphill at Kwun Yam using the boulder path is very challenging to the knees and ankle which is why I tool my Hiking Pole with me when I Hike this trail. 

KEUNG SHAN (459masl)
I went here during the monsoon season and even though the weather added a few difficulties, it gave me such relief  from the challenging uphill and downhill path through the boulder rocks and slippery trail.

In this section one must stop and think whether if you wish proceed to the last and final summit of the trail (LING WUI SHAN 490masl), it would take another 1/2Hr to get to the summit of it by proceeding through the left-side path (under the trees and through grassy area) or hike straight ahead and make a short cut to the end point at Lung Tsai pathway.

This is the section where you trek mostly on concrete and it will surely test the strength of ankle and your knees. Heading towards Tai O at L051 which makes you hike Lantau Trail Section 6, the path soon join the Country Park Trail and end at Tai O Road.

I took a turn to the right after visiting the abandoned retreat house at Lung Tsai Ng Yuen. At some point if the caretaker is around, you can buy softdrinks which cost HK$10 each at room temperature as the place don't have electricity.

Then, just by simply following the signs on a concreted downhill path which will eventually merge at the flat pavement of the water catchment, turn right and head towards Tai O Road and immediately at the end of the trail, you will see a huge information board. You will need to cross the opposite road and board in to the bus that will take you back to Tung Chung (Bus No.11) and Mui Wo (Bus No.1).





Friendly Reminder
Enjoy Your Country Park, Enjoy Hiking & Leave No Trace!  

LANTAU TRAIL SECTION 4

This is one of the easiest trail to tackle in all Lantau Trail with a twist, because when you enter the path along Nei Lak Shan, you are going to ask yourself whether if you wanna climb the summit of it or proceed to the the easy section of Lantau Trail Section 4. However you prefer it, there's a section where you can enter and summit Nei Lak Shan and there also a path which will lead you back on track and proceed with the remainder of the 4th Section. Again, the trail is clearly marked and it's somewhat a circular hike.

HOW TO GET THERE:

- Take all the possible bus that will take you to "Ngong Ping" Lantau Buddha. Taking Lantau Bus No.23 from Tung Chung Bus Terminus, Bus No.1 at Silvemine Bay Bus Terminus, Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car ride and as your final option...Taxi (Blue color).

TRAIL INFO:

• Difficulty: 1/5 (Easy, except if you try hiking Nei lak Shan).
• Duration: 1.5 Hour
• Distance: 4 Km
• Route: Ngong Ping - Sham Wat Road
• Terrain: 40% Boulder Path, 50% Tarmac and 10% Natural
• Cellphone Coverage: Great
• GPS Coverage: Very Good

LOGISTICS:

• Pack/s: Standard Waist/Belt Pack.
• Liquid Supplement: 500ml
• Clothing: Shorts & Shirt
• Shoes: Standard rubber shoes works just fine except if you try to Hike Nei Lak Shan, you must wear a porper hiking shoes.
• Food: 1 Power Bar (or nothing at all because there's a store around Ngong Ping)
• Extras: Sunscreen (During summer because the trail is very exposed), Hiking Pole (Optional if your trying to hike Nei Lak Shan). Mosquito repellent, Mini personal first aid kit, Hat and Sunglasses (on Summer).

NEI LAK SHAN (754masl)
Considered as the 8th Highest Peak in Hong Kong (Photo was taken ust at the bottom section of Lantau Buddha.) 

STARTING POINT
Trek along the route heading Wisdom Path will get you to the stating area of Lantau Trail Section 4.

Starting area of Section 4, this information board stands next to the Wooden Gateways and the Phoenix statue at the ending point of Lantau Trail Section 3. If you notice path with railings on the left-side of the above picture, it is actually the starting ground of your hike these well maintained hiking trail.

The Phoenix & Wooden Gateway

CROSS ROAD
Another information board at the side of the trail, have a look around and check the Campsite on the right with the stone markings that say "Ngong Ping Campsite". The scenery here is great on clear day, your eyes will surely feast with Lo Hon Tower hiking area, White Jaw Trail and Nei Lak Shan peak trail.

Quickly after browsing around at Ngong Ping Campsite, just simple turn back out and proceed towards this section to continue your hike. 

"T-Junction" ...again this trail is clearly marked and all you need to do is to follow the vivid yellow color signage that says "Lantau Trail", the Distance Point and Duration Time are also stated.

This boulder path will provide comfort for the casual walkers but be cautious because the rocks might sometimes become slippery after the rain. This part of the trail provides a little shelter from the blistering heat of the sun during summer but don't worry the heat in Hong Kong usually reach 35-37 degrees ("Bearable"), but the Humidity is usually high.

After hiking through the boulder path and pass the Ngong Ping 360 village, you will now return to this staggering concrete path until you reach the end of this section.

VIEWING POINT
The view here is 100% perfect if the weather permits, because you will get a chance to see the mountain range of South Lantau including Shek Pik Trail, Dog Teeth Trail, Lantau Peak, Shek Pik Reservoir, Lantau Trail Section 5 and the best part is the endless horizon. 

Nearly done...this huge Lantau Country Park signboard stands close to the starting point of Lantau Trail Section 5 which means your almost done with your easy hike.

End of the line, I hope that very easy and yet scenic hike rejuvenate all your senses and feeling very accomplished in life. Never stop exploring!

To get back to the city is to catch Bus No.23, No.11 or 3M to Tung Chung Bus Terminus and the MTR Station is just adjacent to it. The other way out is by taking any bus heading to Mui Wo Ferry Terminal (Silvermine Bay) and you will have to take the Ferry back to Central, Hong Kong.





Friendly Reminder
Enjoy Your Country Park, Enjoy Hiking and Leave No Trace!





 

LANTAU TRAIL SECTION 3

Among all the section of Lantau Trail this is my favorite because the ridge is dominating all its surroundings. Well ofcourse this is Lantau Peak Trail and it's the 2nd highest Mountain in Hong Kong. During dry season, the grass that's blanketing the mountain range looks yellow gold in color but the fresh green tress and cool breeze are combine to make the hike on the second highest summit a very enjoyable one.

TRANSPORT:

• (Best Choice) - Take the MTR train and head towards Tung Chung MTR Station and leave the station by using Exit B. Then, make your way to the Bus Station and board in to Bus No.23, No.11 or 3M; if you get lucky you can ask your bus driver to alight you at Pak Kung Au bus stop.
• Another option is to start travelling from Mui Wo after taking the Ferry from Central Ferry Terminal. You need to take any bus bound for Tung Chung or the Airport and alight when you reach the highest point of the road of Pak Kung Au (near the blue lavatory and barbecue area).
• Finally, a good and reliable Taxi could cost roughly HK$60 to the starting point of Pak Kung Au.

TRAIL INFO:

• Difficulty: 3/5 (Strenuous Hiking)
• Distance: 4.5 km
• Duration: 2.5 Hrs
• Terrain: 60% Natural, 20% Boulder Steps, 10%  Wooden Steps with mud and 10% Tarmac
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Very Good
• GPS Coverage: Great

LOGISTICS:

• Pack: 20L - 25L 
• Liquid Supplement: 2.5L (Summer) / 1.5 (Winter)
• Clothing: Shorts & Shirt (The whole trail is clean and clear)
• Shoes: A good pair of rubber shoes with descent spikes will do the job but it is always good to wear proper hiking shoes.
• Food: Snack/Fruit/Power Bars (any of this will do because there's some eating area when you reach Lantau Buddha.
• Extras: Hiking Pole (optional, Sunscreen/Sun Block (summer), Sunglasses (so exposed during summer), Hat (optional) and Mosquito Repellent.

LET'S GO!

STARTING POINT at PAK KUNG AU
A very distinctive emergency calling post at the main starting point. Please keep in mind that the starting point is next to a lavatory, barbecue area and picnic area. 

Never fear because once again the ever friendly signage along the trail will surely guide you throughout the hike.

In just a few meters of your hike this lovely landscape with surely put you on hold and get your attention, just be sure to appreciate its beauty and take a few souvenir photos.

Priceless scenery of what your about to hike...
The highest mountain on the left side is the summit of Lantau Peak. This section is so enjoyable because the path is very clear ahead but there's no shelter from any trees so it's very hot hike during summer.

Looking back at this point is very fascinating because if you hike during cool and clear day, a spectacular glimpses of Sunset Peak (869masl) landscape is very majestic and rewarding.

Just a bit higher, simply try looking back again and the scenery is surprisingly magical with its trail path and Sunset Peak from a distance. 

LANTAU PEAK SUMMIT (934masl)
This new version is the latest replacement from an older version that look so rotten due to the ever changing weather at the summit and in Hong Kong.

The Trigonometric Marker at the Summit of Lantau Peak

If you climb the summit and the rain starts pouring heavily, then this shelter will provide a temporary protection.

When your done at the summit, it's now time to head downhill and the painstaking boulder stairs is what your going to face. To have a set of hiking pole helps a hiker not to put so much pressure on the knees, so having one is highly recommended.

TSAM CHAI AU SUMMIT (810masl)
At this point, your route is Ngong Ping (Lantau Buddha) and would take half an hour for atleast 1 kilometer hike.

Some benches like this one is provided to take a minute of rest and enjoy the scenery.

Along the resting section, this brilliant view of Nei Lak Shan, Wisdom Path and Ngong Ping is truly remarkable. At some point, one can but smile wryly at the bold pronouncement of the Corporate Afforestation Scheme, which proclaims that "This woodland was established by Cathay Pacific Airways". But one must wonder what happen to the promised woodland.

A wooden archway represents the end of the hike at Lantau Trail Section 3 and the statue of the Phoenix welcomes the trail passerby, the wooden plank with inscriptions on the right-side is Wisdom Path which accept visitors for free just behave yourself within this sacred structures. 

LANTAU BUDDHA
To get here is to by following the route heading Po Lin Monastery. 

Once you reached Lantau Buddha, this colorful flags and Nei Lak Shan is just at the center of attraction that welcomes all the visitor from all over the world. On the right, you will see a stone archway that leads you to Po Lin Monastery. On the left is the famous bronze Buddha statue sitting on a Lotus Flower but you need to climb up the stairs to reach it. During my last visit here, I had to pay HK$20 to enter the Buddha premises but half of the ticket entitled me to get vegetarian food and beverage for free at Po Lin Monastery.

To return to the city is by simple catching Bus No. 23 to Tung Chung and an MTR is available to transport you back to Central, Hong Kong. Another option is by taking the bus that are bound for Mui Wo and you need to catch the Ferry from Silvermine Bay to Central, Hong Kong.




Friendly Reminder
Enjoy Your Country Park, Enjoy Hiking and Leave No Trace