The MacLehose Trail - Section 8: From Lead Mine Pass to Route Twisk

The view from Tai Mo Shan on MacLehose Section 8

The MacLehose Trail - Section 8: Lead Mine Pass to Route Twisk

MacLehose Trail | Section 8 | 9.1km | Difficult

Section 8 of the MacLehose Trail is a breathtaking journey in more ways than one. The views are certainly breathtaking, but so is the hike up Tai Mo Shan, Hong Kong's highest peak. This 9.1-kilometer stretch from Lead Mine Pass to Route Twisk boasts 770m of elevation gain, requiring approximately four hours to complete at walking pace. Known for its stunning vistas, Section 8 is both difficult and very scenic, taking you through some of Hong Kong's most spectacular landscapes.

Marked by distance markers M137 to M156, this trail is an unforgettable adventure for seasoned hikers and trail runners alike.

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MacLehose Trail - Section 8 - Key Facts

From Lead Mine Pass
To Route Twisk
Difficulty ⛰️⛰️⛰️ (Difficult)
Distance 9.1km
Recommended Time 4 hours
Distance Marker Start M137
Distance Marker End M156
GPX & Map Click Here

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Why Hike Section 8 Of The MacLehose Trail

Hiking the 9.1-kilometer Section 8 of the MacLehose Trail, from Lead Mine Pass to Route Twisk, is a great way to step foot on Hong Kong's tallest peak, Tai Mo Shan. Section 8 involves a significant elevation gain of about 770 meters, making it a challenging yet rewarding hike. 

One of the most compelling reasons to hike Section 8 is the opportunity to ascend Hong Kong's highest mountain, Tai Mo Shan. With a peak elevation of 957 meters, Tai Mo Shan provides breathtaking views and a unique climate that differs from the surrounding areas. The trail takes you through Tai Mo Shan Country Park, offering a gorgeous path with scenic road sections that are only accessible to hikers and authorized vehicles. This combination of natural beauty and physical challenge makes Section 8 a must-do along the MacLehose.

The sheer beauty of Section 8 and Tai Mo Shan Country Park is another major draw. The trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, particularly from the higher elevations near Tai Mo Shan. When walking up to Tai Mo Shan one can easily think that Sections 1, 2, and 3 in Sai Kung must be in a different part of the world altogether. Section 8 immerses you in a landscape completely different to the coastal scenery, golden beaches, and turquoise waters at the start of the MacLehose. Here, near Tai Mo Shan, the terrain is dominated by rolling hills, misty peaks, and lush greenery, creating a serene and almost otherworldly atmosphere.

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MacLehose Section 8 - Tai Mo Shan Peak

MacLehose Trail - Section 8: Tai Mo Shan's peak is not accessible, making Tai Mo Shan Hong Kong's highest peak at 957 meters, but not the highest accessible peak, which is Lantau Peak at 934 meters

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MacLehose Trail Section 8: Good to Know

Section 8 of the MacLehose Trail is a unique and rewarding hike, but there are a few things to keep in mind before you set out.

First up, the ascent to Tai Mo Shan, Hong Kong’s highest peak, can feel long and exposed, as much of the trail is not shaded by forest. However, this openness allows for uninterrupted views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it a beautiful and memorable experience! It's best to attempt this hike in autumn or winter to avoid the heat of summer.

Once you near the top of Tai Mo Shan, you’ll encounter a paved road that leads to the summit. While some hikers find this section less scenic compared to the natural trails, it’s a small price to pay for reaching the peak and enjoying its breathtaking panoramic views. The road also provides a clear and easy path to follow, especially in misty or cloudy conditions, which are common at higher elevations.

Be prepared for changing weather, as Tai Mo Shan is known for its cooler temperatures and frequent fog. Bring layers, plenty of water, and a good pair of hiking shoes to tackle the rocky and uneven terrain. 

If you'd just like to go to the top of Tai Mo Shan, do not consider Section 8. A much easier way to reach the top is going or driving up Tai Mo Shan Road. 

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MacLehose Trail - Section 8: Public Transport Options

To get to the start of MacLehose Trail Section 8 at Lead Mine Pass, you can take the following public transport options:


1. From Tai Po Market MTR Station: Take minibus 23K to Yuen Tun Ha and walk uphill to Lead Mine Pass, following the Wilson Trail in reverse. This journey takes about 45 minutes.

2. From Tsuen Wan MTR Station: Take bus 82 from Tsuen Wan to Shing Mun. From Shing Mun, follow the Reservoir walk to connect to Lead Mine Pass. This also takes about 45 minutes.

To return home after completing Section 8, which ends near Route Twisk your options are taking bus 51 from the bus stop near the end of Section 8 to Tsuen Wan West MTR Station. The bus service runs every 60 minutes. If you prefer a quicker return, consider taking a taxi from Route Twisk to Tsuen Wan or Tuen Mun. This is recommended due to the infrequent bus service.

PS: If you're wondering why Route Twisk is called "Twisk", here's the explanation: The name is derived from the combination of Tsuen Wan and Shek Kong, two areas connected by this winding road. The road itself is famous for its scenic drive and its importance as a transportation artery in the New Territories.

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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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