The MacLehose Trail - Section 1: From Pak Tam Chung To Long Ke

The MacLehose Trail - Section 1: From Pak Tam Chung To Long Ke

The MacLehose Trail - Section 1: Pak Tam Chung To Long Ke

MacLehose Trail | Section 1 | 10.0km | Easy

Embark on the first leg of the iconic MacLehose Trail, a 100-kilometer journey that spans the breathtaking landscapes of Hong Kong. Section 1, stretching from Pak Tam Chung to Long Ke, offers a gentle introduction to this epic trail.

Covering a distance of approximately 10 kilometers with an elevation gain of 470 meters, this section can be completed in approximately 2.5 hours. Classified as easy, it provides a comfortable start for hikers, though it is not particularly scenic compared to other sections. The trail is marked by distance posts from M000 to M020/M021, guiding you through a serene and peaceful environment that sets the stage for the more challenging and visually stunning sections ahead.

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MacLehose Trail - Section 1 - Key Facts

From Pak Tam Chung
To Long Ke
Difficulty ⛰️ (Easy)
Distance 10.0 km
Recommended Time 2.5 hours
Distance Marker Start M000
Distance Marker End M020/M021
GPX & Map Click Here

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Why Hike Section 1 Of The MacLehose Trail

Hiking the MacLehose Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. Section 1, from Pak Tam Chung to Long Ke, spans 10 kilometers with an elevation gain of 470 meters. It is considered relatively easy and can be completed in approximately 2.5 hours at a leisurely walking pace. When running, the section can be completed in approximately. 60 to 90 minutes. 

While it may not be the most scenic part of the trail, Section 1 provides an excellent introduction to the larger MacLehose experience, allowing hikers to acclimate to the terrain, warm up, and build momentum for the more challenging sections ahead.

One of the primary reasons to hike Section 1 is its accessibility and ease of navigation. The trail begins near Sai Kung, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It follows a well-marked road along the High Island Reservoir. As you follow the trail, the reservoir will always be on your left, all the way to the High Island Reservoir East Dam, where Section 1 ends.

When hiking Section 1, it is (almost) impossible to get lost. The easy-to-follow road and the distance markers, which appear in 500m intervals, ranging from M000 to M020/M021, ensure that hikers are sure to stay on track. This section is ideal for those new to trail hiking or looking for a leisurely day out in nature. The trail's proximity to urban areas also makes it convenient for those who want to combine a hike with other activities in Sai Kung.

Section 1 passes through the High Island Reservoir area, part of the Hong Kong Geopark, which features unique geological formations such as hexagonal rock columns. While this section may not offer the dramatic views found in later parts of the trail (including the very scenic Section 2 - one of our favorites), it provides a serene and peaceful environment. It is perfect for those seeking a gentle introduction to Hong Kong's diverse landscapes.

Beyond its natural appeal, the MacLehose Trail is a significant part of Hong Kong's outdoor recreation infrastructure, attracting both local and international visitors. It is closely associated with the Oxfam Trailwalker, a major charity event that challenges participants to complete the entire trail within a set timeframe. 

Be aware that Section 1 follows a public road. Though infrequent, cars or taxis drive along the road. Make sure to walk on the side of the road and listen to approaching traffic. 

For those looking for a more scenic section of the MacLehose Trail, Section 2 is a much better option. By taking a taxi to the end of Section 1, hikers can start their walk from High Island Reservoir East Dam and are almost immediately rewarded with great vistas of Long Ke beach. To learn more about Section 2 and why we recommend it as a must-do hike, visit our blog post here.

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MacLehose Trail - Section 1: Public Transport Options

To get to the start of Section 1 of the MacLehose Trail at Pak Tam Chung, you can take the MTR to Diamond Hill Station and then board bus 96R, which is available directly on Sundays.

On other days, you need to take the MTR to Wong Tai Sin Station, then bus 1A to Sai Kung Bus Terminus, and finally bus 7 to Pak Tam Chung. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Diamond Hill or other locations, though this is more expensive.

For returning home after completing Section 1, you can end at Long Ke and then backtrack to Pak Tam Chung for public transport options. However, a more scenic option is to continue to Sai Wan Pavilion, where you can catch a bus or taxi back to Sai Kung town.

From Sai Kung, you can take bus 1A back to Choi Hung MTR Station. Another popular and fun option is to take a speedboat from Sai Wan to Sai Kung, which offers a unique experience but requires planning ahead as boats don't operate every day or during bad weather. Contact boat operators at Sai Kung Ferry Pier to confirm their schedules and to secure a ticket. 

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MacLehose Trail: Sections, Distance, and Difficulty

The total distance of the MacLehose Trail is approximately. 100km with more than 5,000 cumulative elevation gain. The trail is divided into ten sections:

Section 1: Pak Tam Chung To Long Ke

Section 2: Long Ke to Pak Tam Au ⭐

Section 3: Pak Tam Au to Kei Ling Ha

Section 4: Kei Ling Ha to Tai Lo Shan ⭐

Section 5: Tai Lo Shan to Tai Po Road

Section 6: Tai Po Road to Shing Mun

Section 7: Shing Mun to Lead Mine Pass ⭐

Section 8: Lead Mine Pass to Route Twisk

Section 9: Route Twisk to Tin Fu Tsai

Section 10: Tin Fu Tsai to Tuen Mun Town

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