The MacLehose Trail - Section 6: From Tai Po Road to Shing Mun

MacLehose Trail - Section 6 Gate

The MacLehose Trail - Section 6: Tai Po Road to Shing Mun

MacLehose Trail | Section 6 | 4.1km | Easy

Section 6 of the MacLehose Trail is a 4.1-kilometer, partly paved trail from Tai Po Road to Shing Mun. This easy, short, and picturesque route offers a gentle challenge with approximately 440 meters of elevation gain, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a leisurely hike. Typically completed in about an hour or less, Section 6 is marked by distance posts from M115/M116 to M124. 

Section 6 serves as a gentle prelude to the challenges ahead. While it’s a relatively easy and scenic stretch, it’s the calm before the storm—Sections 7 and 8 loom large, featuring the grueling ascent to Tai Mo Shan, Hong Kong’s highest peak. For those tackling the entire MacLehose Trail in one go, Section 6 offers a chance to rest your legs and mentally prepare for the demanding climbs and rugged terrain that lie ahead. It’s a moment to catch your breath, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and gear up for the adventure to come.

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MacLehose Trail - Section 6 - Key Facts

From Tai Po Road
To Shing Mun
Difficulty ⛰️ (Easy)
Distance 4.1km
Recommended Time 1 hour
Distance Marker Start M116
Distance Marker End M124
GPX & Map Click Here

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Why Hike Section 6 Of The MacLehose Trail

Hiking Section 6 of the MacLehose Trail spans just over 4 kilometers, with an elevation gain of about 300 to 400 meters. It typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how much time you spend taking in the views. The trail is generally considered easy. Part of it follows Golden Hill Road, a well-paved service road near Kowloon Reservoir. The main attraction of Section 6 is the countless monkeys that call this part of Hong Kong their home. It is a perfect trail for those looking for a leisurely hike or a quick run.

Section 6 begins at Tai Po Road and passes through Kam Shan Country Park, also known as Golden Hill or Monkey Hill due to its resident rhesus macaques. These monkeys are often seen near the trailhead. As you progress, you'll catch glimpses of Kowloon's reservoirs and eventually, views of the towering blocks in Kowloon. The trail ends near Shing Mun Country Park, at Shing Mun BBQ Area, where you can refill your water or access the public restrooms.

Section 6 starts just a few steps from a bus stop, so it's easy to get to and from this part of the trail. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to experience the beauty of Hong Kong's countryside without needing to plan extensive logistics. Whether you're looking for a quick escape from the city or a warm-up for more challenging sections of the MacLehose Trail, Section 6 combines scenic views with ease of access.

For trail runners, Section 6 offers a great opportunity to enjoy a short, scenic run with minimal elevation gain. It's the calm before the storm because Sections 7 and 8 are where the real challenge begins.

These sections feature steep ascents, taking you over aptly-named Needle Hill, Grassy Hill, and finally up to Tai Mo Shan, Hong Kong’s highest peak at 957 meters. The climbs are relentless and the descents are technical, especially from Needle Hill.

In winter, temperatures at Tai Mo Shan often drop to single digits, adding yet another challenge. Sections 7 and 8 are a rewarding but demanding stretch that requires stamina, preparation, and a good dose of determination.

Whether you’re running or hiking, Section 6 is a welcome breather in the midst of the MacLehose Trail’s epic 100km journey!

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MacLehose Trail Section 6: Good to Know

One of the unique features of Section 6 is its proximity to Kam Shan Country Park, also known as Monkey Hill. As you hike or run along this section, you’re likely to encounter troops of macaques—Hong Kong’s famous wild monkeys. While these primates are a fascinating part of the trail experience, it’s important to be cautious.

Monkeys are generally not aggressive unless provoked, but they are highly curious and opportunistic when it comes to food. To avoid any unwanted encounters, keep your snacks, water bottles, and any other food items securely packed away in your bag. Avoid eating in front of the monkeys, as they may try to snatch your food. Additionally, be mindful of your valuables—monkeys have been known to grab shiny objects or items that resemble food packaging.

While the monkeys can be entertaining to watch, it’s best to admire them from a distance and avoid feeding or interacting with them. By staying alert and following these simple precautions, you can enjoy Section 6’s scenic beauty without any monkey-related mishaps.

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A monkey (one of many!) in Kam Shan Country Park

A monkey (one of many!) in Kam Shan Country Park

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MacLehose Trail - Section 6: Public Transport Options

To get to the start of MacLehose Trail Section 6, you can take bus 72 towards Shek Lei Pui Reservoir, which stops near Tai Po Road, the beginning of Section 6. Alternatively, you can use the MTR and local green minibuses. 

After completing Section 6, you will end near Shing Mun Country Park. To return home, you can walk to the nearest bus stop or taxi stand. However, public transport options are limited near the end of Section 6. You might need to ask locals for directions to the nearest bus stop or take a taxi to Tsuen Wan MTR station, which is a more accessible point for public transport.

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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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