Continuing my journey along the 50-km Hong Kong Trail, Section 2 surprised me in the best way possible. Compared to the more touristy feel of Section 1, this part felt quieter, more forested, and unexpectedly scenic, especially once the views of Aberdeen, Magazine Island, and Lamma Island started to appear through the trees.
While the trail itself is still relatively easy, the long downhill stairs definitely woke up my legs a little. But overall, if you enjoy peaceful forest walks mixed with coastal views, Hong Kong Trail Section 2 is still a really enjoyable section to hike.
Hong Kong Trail Section 2 Overview & Quick Facts:
- Route: Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Road to Peel Rise
- Distance: 4.5 km
- Elevation Gain/Loss: No data, but mostly downhill
- Difficulty: Easy (Beginner-Friendly)
- Time Required: 1.5 hours
- Best Season: Autumn to Spring (October–April for cooler, less humid weather)
- Highlights: Views of Aberdeen, Magazine Island & Lamma Island, lush greenery, and peaceful forest atmosphere
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 2 and How to Get Out?
If you’re continuing from Section 1 like I did, then you’re already at the start of Section 2. Simply continue following the distance posts from Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Road.
However, if you’re starting directly from this section, there are currently two convenient bus options from Central (as of May 2026):
- Bus #30X from Statue Square to Pok Fu Lam Village
- Bus #37A from The Landmark to Pok Fu Lam Village
Both options still require a short walk to the trailhead, but nothing too difficult.
While I didn't exit the trail myself, there’s an exit path you can follow right after distance post H024 which will lead you toward Tin Wan Estate Road. From there, you can take Bus #51 toward Aberdeen.
rail, there's an exit trail after distance post H024 (this coordinates). Take this exit trail and walk until you reach Tin Wan Estate Road. From here, you can take Bus #51 to Aberdeen Bus Terminus.
Hiking Trailhead:
The trail officially starts shortly after the picnic area near H015, where Section 1 ends.
After a short break, I continued uphill using the stairs beside the signpost.
Hong Kong Trail Section 2 Route (Step-by-Step Guide)
Compared to Section 1, this part immediately felt quieter and more enclosed by nature. The trail was filled with different kinds of plants, butterflies, and thick greenery almost everywhere I looked.
As someone based in the UAE for more than a decade, I honestly enjoyed even the simplest things here, especially the giant ferns lining parts of the trail.
At one point, I even encountered a wild boar near H022. It completely caught me off guard and honestly scared me a little since it was my first time seeing one during a hike. Unfortunately, I was too shocked to even take a photo.
Eventually, the trail transitions into long downhill stairs. While the descent itself is still manageable, the continuous steps can start to feel tiring on the knees, esepcially if you have concerns about knees. Personally, this was one of those hikes where I wished I had brought trekking poles with me.
💡Looking for your first trekking poles? I wrote reviews of beginner-friendly and affordable trekking poles I personally own:
- Cascade Mountain Tech Aluminum Quick Lock Trekking Poles
- Northland Aluminum Z-Type Foldable Trekking Poles
Some sections are steep and equipped with railings, while others feel more exposed. Thankfully, the scenery becomes increasingly rewarding during the descent.
Through the openings in the trees, I started getting beautiful views of Magazine Island and Lamma Island.
But the real highlight for me was the panoramic view overlooking Aberdeen. Aberdeen is a town on the Southwest of Hong Kong Island. It is famous for its floating villages and restaurants. It's a shame that I couldn't visit Aberdeen during my short trip, but this view made up for it!
The trail then continues downhill until you eventually reach a reservoir-looking structure and a concrete path leading toward Peel Rise, marking the end of Section 2 and the start of Section 3.
Hiking Tips & What to Bring for Hong Kong Trail Section 2:
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:
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 that’s completely okay, we don’t need to agree with everyone all the time. Anyhow, here’s what I think about the Hong Kong Trail Section 2:
Pros:
- The view of Magazine Island, Lamma Island, and Aberdeen was rewarding.
- Abundant variations of plants, butterflies, and wildlife. Who knows what will show up next?
- There are proper picnic sites along the trail.
- It is not as crowded as other sections, so if you're here for solitude, you can count on this trail.
Cons:
- There's a fair share of pavement on this trail. If you prefer to walk on dirt trails and in the woods, this trail may not be to your liking. But give it a chance.
- If you have an issue with stairs and a fear of heights, the downhill stairs might give you a little trouble. Because of this, I don't recommend taking smaller children here.
- Getting to the trailhead or the end of the trail is quite tricky. Compared to other sections, it is not the most accessible one.
- Despite having so many greens, many parts of the trail are exposed to the sun. Consider hiking early and resting in picnic spots during mid-day.
Overall, I enjoyed Hong Kong Trail Section 2 more than I initially expected. While it may not be the most dramatic section of the Hong Kong Trail, the peaceful atmosphere and the rewarding coastal views made it memorable in its own way.
I especially liked how this section slowly transitioned from forest scenery into open viewpoints overlooking Aberdeen and the nearby islands. It felt less touristy and more relaxing compared to Section 1.
👉 Continue reading: Hong Kong Trail Section 3 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!
