To kick off my journey along the 50-km Hong Kong Trail, I started with Section 1 — the classic route from Victoria Peak to Pok Fu Lam Reservoir. The trail started with a sweeping view of the Hong Kong skyline until it blended smoothly through quiet forest trails, completely detached from the noise of the city.
If you’re looking for an easy, beginner-friendly hike in Hong Kong with iconic views, this is honestly one of the best places to start!
Hong Kong Trail Section 1 Overview & Quick Facts:
- Route: The Peak to Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Road
- Distance: 7 km
- Elevation Gain: ±150–200 m
- Highest Point: 550 m (Victoria Peak)
- Difficulty: Easy (Beginner-Friendly)
- Time Required: 2 hours (depending on pace)
- Best Season: Autumn to Spring (October–April for cooler, less humid weather)
- Highlights: Iconic views from Victoria Peak, easy shaded trails, and the perfect balance of city skyline and peaceful nature
How To Use This Guide:
I hiked the Hong Kong Trail from west to east, starting with Section 1. But there’s really no “right” way to do it. You can just as easily start from Section 8 and work your way back, or tackle one section at a time, depending on your schedule (and your #hikeppetite).
If you’re looking for a specific section, you can jump ahead here:
- Hong Kong Trail Section 1 Guide: The Peak to Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Road
- Hong Kong Trail Section 2 Guide: Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Road to Peel Rise
- Hong Kong Trail Section 3 Guide: Peel Rise to Wan Chai Gap Road
- Hong Kong Trail Section 4 Guide: Wan Chai Gap Road to Won Nai Chung Road
- Hong Kong Trail Section 5 Guide: Won Nai Chung Road to Tai Fung Au/Mount Parker Road
- Hong Kong Trail Section 6 Guide: Tai Fung Au/Mount Parker Road to Tai Tam Road
How to Get To Hong Kong Trail Section 1 and How to Get Out?
One of the main reasons I started my Hong Kong Trail journey with Section 1 was its easy access to public transport.
Arguably, the most scenic way to reach The Peak is via the Peak Tram. It's probably true. But upon hearing about the long queues, I decided to skip it to avoid wasting my time. Since I wasn't sightseeing anyway, I ended up taking the scenic bus ride from Central (at that time, it was Bus #X15R).
As of March 2025, I don't see this particular bus anymore. But there are still two bus options to reach the trailhead:
- Bus #15 from Exchange Square near Central Station
- Green Minibus from Hong Kong Station Minibus Terminus
With slightly different routes, both options are heading to The Peak Galleria Bus Terminus. From there, it's just a short walk to the trailhead at Lugard Road.
To get out of the trail, keep an eye out for signposts leading back to The Peak. You will see them near the picnic sites at Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Road. From the signposts, you'll have to walk a little more to reach The Peak Galleria, where you can take the same bus options back to Central.
Hiking Trailhead:
Since the start of Hong Kong Trail's Section 1 is The Peak, I went a little bit of sightseeing too. I went inside The Peak Tower and even dropped by the famous Victoria Peak's Lions Pavilion. With no time to spare, I went back to the main road and turned right onto Lugard Road.
This Lugard Road signage is the official start of the trail. The next thing I know is that I’m already at H003, which is distance post #3 already.
I'm not sure how I missed the first two distance posts, but it is what it is.
Hong Kong Trail Section 1 Route (Step-by-Step Guide):
The trail starts easily with a wide, paved path lined with trees that almost feels like a natural tunnel.
Now and then, the trees open up to reveal sweeping views of Central, and on a clear day, even a glimpse of Tsim Sha Tsui across the harbour. Honestly, some of these viewpoints are just as good (if not better) than the crowded spots at The Peak, minus the chaos.
As you continue, you’ll be traversing around Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island. This section is great if you enjoy slow hiking with a bit of sightseeing of a variety of plants and trees. There are small signboards along the way with info about the surrounding plants and wildlife (which I fully intended to read… but couldn't because I was rushing, oops!).
Eventually, you’ll reach the Morning Trail junction connecting to Harlech Road and Hatton Road. Just follow the sign pointing right (1700M) to stay on the Hong Kong Trail.
From here, the trail starts to change. The paved path gradually disappears, the shade becomes less consistent, and you’ll hit a series of downhill stairs, nothing too intense, but enough to wake up your legs a bit.
After that, it settles into a more relaxed rhythm again: mostly flat dirt paths, lush forest surroundings, and even a few shallow stream crossings along the way.
And just when you’re ready for a break, you’ll arrive at the picnic area near Pok Fu Lam Reservoir (right after H014).
This is the perfect spot to pause, recharge, and relax before continuing to the next section.
Hiking Tips & What to Bring for Hong Kong Trail Section 1:
Even though this is an easy, beginner-friendly hike, proper preparation is essential for both safety and enjoyment.
What to Bring:
- Water and snacks – there are no facilities along the trail; bring at least 2–3 liters of water and enough snacks
- Trekking poles – highly recommended during descent on stairs to reduce strain on your knees
- Raincoat - prevents getting wet during rain
- Offline map or GPS – download your route in advance, in case of a weak signal
- Small first aid kit – useful for minor injuries or altitude-related discomfort, bring ibuprofen for headaches due to high altitude sickness
- Trash bag – practice Leave No Trace principles
Personal Thoughts:
As I always say, we all have different adventure appetites, or what I call #hikeppetite to begin with. So, a good trail for me might not be a good trail for you, and vice versa. And that’s completely okay — we don’t need to agree with anyone or everyone all the time. Anyhow, here’s what I think about my hike on the Hong Kong Trail Section 1:
Pros:
- Feels like a refreshing nature walk without ever being too far from the city
- A really nice balance of skyline views and forest trails
- Super accessible via public transport (which isn’t always the case in Hong Kong)
- Well-marked, beginner-friendly, and suitable for kids and even dogs!
- Picnic areas make it easy to turn this into a chill half-day hike
Cons:
- Because it’s so accessible and beginner-friendly, it can get crowded, especially on weekends!
Overall, the trail is nice, easy, and suitable for all fitness levels. If you're interested in doing a short outdoor activity in Hong Kong, whether as a local, an expat, or a tourist, you might want to check this out!
👉 Continue reading: Hong Kong Trail Section 2 Hiking Guide
Whatever decision you make, always remember to prepare beforehand, stay safe, and last but not least, enjoy the outdoors! #happyhiking!
With lots of love,
PINAYHAKAWATI 💗
AND AS A GENTLE OUTDOOR ETHICS REMINDER:
LEAVE NO TRACE!
