The Hong Kong Trail - Section 1: The Peak To Pok Fu Lam Reservoir
Hong Kong Trail | Section 1 | 7 km | Moderate
Welcome to the Hong Kong Trail! This 45-kilometer trail starts on the Peak and ends in Big Wave Bay. It takes runners and hikers through Hong Kong Island's breathtaking country parks.
The first section of the Hong Kong Trail is a 7-kilometer trail from The Peak to Pok Fu Lam Reservoir. This moderate route offers stunning views of Hong Kong Island's skyline. It starts deceptively easy on Lugard Road, a pedestrian path on the Peak before taking hikers onto the trails in Hong Kong's lush forests. At a slow, leisurely pace, the hike typically takes about 2 hours to complete and it is marked by distance posts H001 to H014. This scenic section is perfect for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and moderate physical challenge. It packs approx. 680 meters of elevation gain, but goes mostly downhill.
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Hong Kong Trail - Section 1 - Key Facts
| From | The Peak |
|---|---|
| To | Pok Fu Lam Reservoir |
| Difficulty | ⛰️⛰️ (Moderate) |
| Distance | 7 km |
| Recommended Time | 2 hours |
| Distance Marker Start | H001 |
| Distance Marker End | H014 |
| GPX & Map | Click Here |
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Why Hike Hong Kong Trail - Section 1
Hiking the Hong Kong Trail's Section 1 from The Peak to Pok Fu Lam Reservoir is a great city escape that is easily accessible from anywhere on Hong Kong Island. Hop on a bus or the Peak Tram to the Peak Tower, and start your journey on Lugard Road, a popular hiking trail with great views of Mid-Levels and Central down below.
This section, approximately 7 kilometers in length, showcases the diverse landscapes that Hong Kong has to offer. First, the panoramic views of the city skyline, and then the lush greenery of the Pok Fu Lam Country Park. The trail includes a moderate elevation gain of about 680 meters, providing a challenging yet rewarding hike that can be completed in around 2 hours - or much faster if you are willing to run it.
The scenic appeal of this section is one of its greatest attractions. Starting at the iconic Victoria Peak, the trail meanders down, offering stunning views of Hong Kong Island's skyscrapers and the vibrant harbor below. The route passes through well-marked and well-paved pathways, including Lugard Road. It gives ample opportunities to capture memorable photos.
For families and beginners, Section 1 of the Hong Kong Trail is an excellent introduction to hiking in Hong Kong. The terrain, while providing some elevation change, is generally considered moderate, with most of the trail being well-graded and maintained. Additionally, the scenic variety, along with the manageable distance and duration, makes this section an ideal choice for those seeking to experience the best of Hong Kong's outdoors without committing to a full-day hike.
For those looking to expand Section 1, the hike up to High West is highly recommended. On a clear day, the view from High West onto Lamma and Lantau is a sight to behold!
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Hong Kong Section 1: Good to Know
Lugard Road at the start of this section can get quite busy on weekends, so it's best to start your hike early to enjoy the trail in peace!
Many hikers are surprised by the 680 meters of cumulative elevation gain, as there isn't one dominant hill - instead, you'll encounter constant undulations with plenty of ups and downs throughout the route. While the distance is relatively short at 7km, these rolling elevations make it more challenging than it first appears, so come prepared with proper footwear and water. The good news is you'll be rewarded with some of Hong Kong's most spectacular urban vistas along the way.
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Section 1 of the Hong Kong Trail Starts on Lugard Road, a Popular and Well-Paved Path on The Peak
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Hong Kong Trail - Section 1: Public Transport Options
To reach the start of Section 1, your public transport options include the Peak Tram. It is the most scenic way to ascend to Victoria Peak. However, be prepared for potentially long queues, especially at the lower terminus.
Bus #15 leaves from Exchange Square near Central Station, directly reaching The Peak Galleria. Also, there is a green minibus available from Hong Kong Station Minibus Terminus.
For returning home after completing the section, you can use the same bus options, with signs at Pok Fu Lam Reservoir guiding you back to The Peak Galleria, where you can board bus #15 or a green minibus back to Central or other parts of Hong Kong.
Alternatively, walk down to Pok Fu Lam Road and board a bus back to Central from there.
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Hong Kong Trail: Sections, Distance, and Difficulty
The total distance of the Hong Kong Trail is approximately. 45km with more than 1,500 cumulative elevation gain. If starting from the Peak, it is generally descending with a few large ascents. It is overall very runnable and can easily be finished in a single day, even at a slow pace. The trail is divided into eight sections:
Section 1: From The Peak To Pok Fu Lam Reservoir
- Distance: 7 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Learn More About Section 1
Section 2: Pok Fu Lam Reservoir To Peel Rise
- Distance: 4.5 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Learn More About Section 2
Section 3: Peel Rise To Wan Chai Gap
- Distance: 5.4 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Learn More About Section 3
Section 4: Wan Chai Gap To Wong Nai Chung Gap Road
- Distance: 6.9 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Learn More About Section 4
Section 5: Wong Nai Chung Gap to Mount Parker Road
- Distance: 3.5 km
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Learn More About Section 5
Section 6: Mount Parker Road to Tai Tam Road
- Distance: 4.5 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Learn More About Section 6
Section 7: Tai Tam Road to To Tei Wan
- Distance: 6.9 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Learn More About Section 7
- Just a trail along a catchwater: Skip this section unless you run the entire Hong Kong Trail
Section 8: To Tei Wan to Big Wave Bay ⭐
- Distance: 7.7 km
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Learn More About Section 8
- Also known as the Dragon's Back, one of Hong Kong's most iconic hikes
