The Hong Kong Trail - Section 3: From Peel Rise To Wan Chai Gap
Hong Kong Trail | Section 3 | 5.4 km | Moderate
For trail enthusiasts seeking a moderate yet scenic challenge on Hong Kong Island, the third section of the Hong Kong Trail is a good choice. At just 5.4 kilometers from Peel Rise to Wan Chai Gap, this section has 490 meters of elevation gain. The journey typically takes about 1.5 hours to complete. The trail follows distance markers H026 to H037.
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Hong Kong Trail - Section 3 - Key Facts
| From | Peel Rise |
|---|---|
| To | Wan Chai Gap |
| Difficulty | ⛰️⛰️ (Moderate) |
| Distance | 5.4 km |
| Recommended Time | 1.5 hours |
| Distance Marker Start | H026 |
| Distance Marker End | H037 |
| GPX & Map | Click Here |
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Why Hike Hong Kong Trail - Section 3
Hiking Section 3 of the Hong Kong Trail is an accessible 5.4-kilometer route for outdoor enthusiasts. This section, beginning at Peel Rise and concluding at Wan Chai Gap, provides a mix of scenic views and shaded trails, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a moderate yet rewarding hiking experience on Hong Kong Island. The well-marked paths and easy access points ensure hikers can navigate the trail comfortably.
As the trail winds through the green zones of the Southern District and into Aberdeen Country Park, hikers are treated to stunning vistas and the tranquility of lush woodlands. The route is predominantly shaded, protected from the sun, and includes features like small streams. Although the trail is not as renowned for its panoramic views as some other sections, it offers a serene and peaceful environment that is perfect for those seeking a relaxing hike.
For trail runners, Section 3 offers an exciting challenge with its mix of soft dirt trails and gentle inclines. The majority of the section is composed of dirt and leaf-covered paths, making it ideal for those who prefer to run on trails over concrete roads.
This section is particularly appealing on weekdays when fewer people are around, allowing runners to enjoy a more solitary experience. The trail's characteristics, such as its smooth terrain and lack of steep climbs, make it suitable for quickening the pace on certain stretches.
Overall, Section 3 provides a balance of natural beauty and physical challenge, making it an excellent choice for both hikers and trail runners looking to explore Hong Kong's diverse landscapes.
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Hong Kong Trail - Section 3: Public Transport Options
To get to the start of Section 3 of the Hong Kong Trail at Peel Rise, you can take several bus options from Central. Direct buses include 7, 70, 91, or 94, which will drop you off at Aberdeen Reservoir Road. From there, walk west-north on Peel Rise for about half an hour to reach the trailhead.
Alternatively, you can take bus 70P from Cityhall; Connaught Road Central to Pak Sha Lau Yue Kwong Chuen in Aberdeen. Then, walk uphill on Peel Rise, passing by St. Peter's Secondary School and Aberdeen Chinese Cemetery.
To return home after completing Section 3 at Wan Chai Gap, you can walk down Bowen Road and Wan Chai, which takes about half an hour.
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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
