The MacLehose Trail - Section 3: From Pak Tam Au to Kei Ling Ha

The MacLehose Trail - Section 3: From Pak Tam Au to Kei Ling Ha

MacLehose Trail | Section 3 | 9.1km | Demanding

With Section 3 of the MacLehose, we are leaving the beautiful beaches of Sai Kung behind and embark on a challenging 9.1km hike from Pak Tam Au to Kei Ling Ha. This demanding section features an elevation gain of approximately 720 meters, requiring about 2.5 hours to complete at a moderate walking pace.

Section 3 of the MacLehose Trail is a test of endurance that contrasts sharply with the well-paved paths of Section 2. While it may not be the most scenic part of the trail, it offers a challenging experience for hikers and trail runners alike. The terrain here is rocky and uneven, with sections that demand careful footing and steady stamina. Where kilometers seemed to fly by on Section 2, every meter on Section 3 feels hard-earned, making it a true test of physical and mental resilience.  

The route spans from distance markers M048/M049 to M068/M069, taking you through a mix of rugged trails and steep ascents. Proper hiking shoes with a good grip are highly recommended to navigate the tricky terrain safely. 

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MacLehose Trail - Section 3 - Key Facts

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Why Hike Section 3 Of The MacLehose Trail

Hiking the MacLehose Trail Section 3 from Pak Tam Au to Kei Ling Ha is the first true challenge of the 100km MacLehose Trail.

This 9.1-kilometer section, with an elevation gain of approximately 720 meters, requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance. While it may not be as visually stunning as some other sections of the trail, the demanding nature of this hike makes it an excellent choice for those looking to test their limits.

The trail's demanding nature is due to its rugged terrain and significant elevation changes. Despite not being very scenic compared to other parts of the MacLehose Trail, Section 3 provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural environment of the Sai Kung West Country Park. The hike typically takes around 2.5 hours to complete, making it a manageable day trip for those with a moderate schedule. The distance markers for this section range from M048/M049 to M068/M069, guiding hikers through the challenging yet rewarding terrain.

Section 3 is ideal for those who enjoy a more solitary experience or prefer to focus on their physical performance. Unlike Section 2, which is a popular weekend destination for families and casual hikers, Section 3 sees significantly fewer visitors. This makes it a peaceful escape for those seeking tranquility or a chance to fully immerse themselves in the rhythm of their hike or run.

MacLehose Trail Section 3: Good to Know

Before you set off on MacLehose Trail Section 3, here are a few key things to keep in mind:  

1. There are restrooms available at the start (Pak Tam Au) and at the end (Kei Ling Ha) of Section 3. However, once you’re on the trail, there are no facilities, so plan accordingly. 
2. This section is remote, with no shops, water refill stations, or rest areas. Make sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and any essentials you’ll need for the hike. If needed, buy water at the vending machine at the end of Section 2.
3. For those attempting the entire MacLehose Trail, the end of Section 3 (Kei Ling Ha) is an excellent spot to refuel. At just over 30 kilometers into the 100km trail, this is a good point to restock supplies or meet supporters. The next section, Section 4, begins with a challenging climb up Ma On Shan, so having fresh energy and resources here can make a big difference. 
4. Plan Ahead: If you’re hiking with a group or have supporters, consider arranging for food drops or meeting points at Kei Ling Ha. This can help lighten your load and ensure you’re well-prepared for the tougher sections ahead!

When we ran the MacLehose Trail, for example, we dropped off food at the end of Section 3 and had our first "proper" meal there. We started running the trail at 3 AM in the morning and reached the end of Section 3 just in time for a "breakfast". As we started early in the day, the restaurants on Section 2 were not an option. 

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MacLehose Trail - Section 3: Public Transport Options

To get to the start of MacLehose Trail Section 3 at Pak Tam Au, you can use public transport by taking buses 94, 96R, or 289R from Sai Kung, or bus 92 from Sai Kung to Wong Shek Pier and then transfer to a minibus or taxi. Alternatively, you can take bus 7 from Hoi Ha to Pak Tam Au.

To return home after completing the section, which ends near Shui Long Wo along Sai Sha Road, you can take buses 99, 299X, or 289R. These buses connect to major transportation hubs like Sai Kung Town Centre, Shatin, and Wu Kai Sha Station.

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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

• Distance: 10.0 km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Learn More About Section 1

Section 2: Long Ke to Pak Tam Au ⭐

• Distance: 14.1 km
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Very scenic and a must-do!
• Learn More About Section 2

Section 3: Pak Tam Au to Kei Ling Ha

• Distance: 9.1 km
• Difficulty: Demanding
• Learn More About Section 3

Section 4: Kei Ling Ha to Tai Lo Shan ⭐

• Distance: 12.8 km
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Our favorite section
• Learn More About Section 4

Section 5: Tai Lo Shan to Tai Po Road

• Distance: 10.7 km
• Difficulty: Demanding
• Learn More About Section 5

Section 6: Tai Po Road to Shing Mun

• Distance: 4.1 km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Learn More About Section 6

Section 7: Shing Mun to Lead Mine Pass ⭐

• Distance: 7 km
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Learn More About Section 7

Section 8: Lead Mine Pass to Route Twisk

• Distance: 9.1 km
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Learn More About Section 8

Section 9: Route Twisk to Tin Fu Tsai

• Distance: 6.2 km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Learn More About Section 9

Section 10: Tin Fu Tsai to Tuen Mun Town

• Distance: 15.2 km
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Learn More About Section 10