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

The Wilson Trail: Tai Po Road to Shing Mun Reservoir

Wilson Trail | Section 6 | 5.3km | Medium

Welcome to Section 6 of the Wilson Trail, a 5.3-kilometer trail that takes you from Tai Po Road to the serene Shing Mun Reservoir. This section, rated as medium difficulty, is a blend of challenge and natural beauty on a relatively short but hilly trail. With an estimated completion time of 2.5 hours, it’s a good choice for a half-day adventure.

As you make your way through this section, you’ll be treated to lush forests, peaceful trails, and stunning views of the Shing Mun Reservoir. In and by itself, this section of the Wilson Trail is not the most scenic nor exciting. It connects Kowloon and Shing Mun Reservoir with some good viewpoints of both along the way but lacks the highlights of Section 1, Section 4, or Section 10, for example.

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Wilson Trail - Section 6 - Key Facts

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Why Hike Section 6 Of The Wilson Trail

While Section 6 of the Wilson Trail may not be the most scenic part of the trail, it still offers a rewarding and enjoyable experience for hikers and trail runners. This 5.3-kilometer section is relatively short and straightforward, making it a great option for those looking for a manageable hike with a bit of elevation gain.  

The trail takes you through lush forests and offers glimpses of the tranquil Shing Mun Reservoir, providing a peaceful escape from the city. While it’s not the most visually stunning section of the Wilson Trail, it’s a solid choice for a morning hike to build endurance.  

Many hikers appreciate Section 6 for its quiet atmosphere and the chance to enjoy nature without the crowds. It’s a good workout with some uphill sections, and the reservoir is a nice spot to relax at the end. If you're making the journey to Section 6, especially if coming from Hong Kong Island, we highly recommend continuing on to the next section of the Wilson Trail or exploring the surroundings, such as Needle Hill or even Tai Mo Shan (both part of the MacLehose Trail).

Overall, if you’re looking for a moderate hike that’s easy to fit into your schedule, Section 6 is a solid choice. It may not be the highlight of the Wilson Trail, but it’s a pleasant and accessible way to enjoy Hong Kong’s natural beauty.

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Exploring The Surroundings of Wilson Trail Section 6

For history buffs, Section 6 offers a fascinating connection to Hong Kong’s wartime past. The trail is near Smugglers’ Ridge, home to one of the most extensive Japanese tunnel systems in Hong Kong. These tunnels, located to the south of and overlooking the Shing Mun Redoubt, are a testament to the region’s strategic importance during World War II.

At the southern end of Shing Mun Reservoir, you’ll find the Shing Mun War Relics Trail, which sits on the northern part of Smugglers’ Ridge.

This area was part of the Gin Drinkers Line, a British military defensive line constructed between 1937 and 1938 to protect against a potential Japanese invasion. The Gin Drinkers Line played a significant role during the Battle of Hong Kong in December 1941, a pivotal moment in the Pacific War.

Exploring this section offers not only a chance to enjoy nature but also an opportunity to step back in time and reflect on Hong Kong’s rich history. 

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