Continuing my Hong Kong Trail journey, Section 4 felt like a step up. Not in difficulty, but in experience. After the quieter, more low-key Section 3, this part finally brings back a bit of variety: forest trails, flowing streams, and a rewarding viewpoint at Middle Gap.
It’s still relatively easy, but this time, it actually feels like a proper hike.
Hong Kong Trail Section 4 Overview & Quick Facts:
- Route: Wan Chai Gap Road to Won Nai Chung Road
- Distance: 7.5 km
- Elevation Gain: ~250–300 m
- Highest Point: ~430 m
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Beginner-Friendly)
- Time Required: 2-2.5 hours (depending on pace)
- Best Season: Autumn to Spring (October–April for cooler, less humid weather)
- Highlights: Lush forest trails, charming English-style bridges, streams and small waterfalls, and panoramic views from Middle Gap overlooking the southern side of Hong Kong Island
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 4 and How to Get Out?
If you're coming from Section 3, just follow the distance posts — the transition is seamless.
But, if you’re starting fresh, the easiest way to reach the trailhead is by bus from Central. As of April 2026, here are two bus options:
- Option 1: Start mid-way via Guildford Road (what I did)
Take Green Minibus 1 from Cotton Tree Drive to Peak Road (near Sky Court Block 7). From there, walk along Guildford Road and turn right onto Watford Road. After a short walk, you’ll spot stairs leading down into the forest. The stairs connect you back to the Hong Kong Trail around Section 3. I took this route since I had previously exited the trail here, so it was the easiest way to continue toward Section 4. - Option 2: Start near the official Section 4 trailhead (Wan Chai Gap)
Take Bus 15 from Central (City Hall) and get off near Wan Chai Gap. From the main road, walk down toward Aberdeen Reservoir Road. You’ll start seeing signs for the Hong Kong Trail around Distance Posts #38–39, which mark the beginning of Section 4.
To get out of the trail, walk towards the left side when you come across this signpost at the end of the trail. From here, walk to Tai Tam Reservoir Road; Wong Nai Chung Gap Road (that's the exact name of the bus stop), where you can take Bus 6 back to Central.
Hiking Trailhead:
Since I came from Section 3, I’ll guide you based on that route. The previous section ends at distance post #37. Not long after, you’ll see the trail map. Can you spot the lizard on the map?
From here, you’re already at the start of Section 4. Just look to your left if you’re facing the road. Distance post #38 will be in front of you (if you follow the direction), and simply follow the trail ahead.
Hong Kong Trail Section 4 Route (Step-by-Step Guide):
The trail starts gently, with shaded forest paths that ease you into the hike. Within minutes, you’ll pass through this metal tube and follow the stairs.
The next parts are wooded sections, small streams, and even a few charming English-style bridges that almost feel out of place in the middle of nature.
As you go further, the water features become more noticeable. From quiet streams to small cascading waterfalls, it adds a refreshing element to the hike, especially on warmer days.
Midway through, you’ll catch glimpses of the Aberdeen Upper Reservoir, before reaching the transition point known as Middle Gap, where the dirt trail briefly gives way to a paved path.
There are multiple signposts installed for guidance. Kindly take note to follow the signpost Black's Link via Middle Gap Road.
Why is it called Middle Gap, though? Based on my understanding, the woods/dirt trail ended at the start of the Middle Gap Road. Then, a paved/concrete trail awaits you to connect the trail to the next woods section again. The paved road then serves as the middle gap between the two dirt trails.
There’s a short uphill section here (and less shade), but it leads to the highlight of this section: the Middle Gap viewpoint. The panoramic view overlooking the southern side of Hong Kong Island is the perfect spot to take a break, if needed.
The Ocean Park (photo above) and the Wong Chuk Hang Estate (photo below) are even visible from this viewpoint, but of course, subject to weather conditions.
It’s not the most famous viewpoint in Hong Kong, but that’s exactly why it feels more rewarding. It's like a hidden spot reserved only for those who are willing to hike for it!
Anyway, going back to the trail, after the viewpoint, you will reach the residential area called Black Link's villas. Continue walking down until the main road and until you see the signpost leading you to Section 5.
Hiking Tips & What to Bring for Hong Kong Trail Section 4:
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
- Sun Protection - sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect you in areas with no shade
- 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 4:
Pros:
- A nice mix of forest trails, streams, and viewpoints
- Less crowded compared to the more popular sections (although I went on a weekday)
- Easy to moderate, which is good for most fitness levels
- Accessibility to public transportation
Cons:
- Some exposed sections, especially near Middle Gap
- Viewpoint depends on the weather conditions (fog can ruin visibility)
- Signage toward Section 5 can be confusing. I spent around 30–40 minutes looking for distance post #50 until I finally got some help from other hikers
Overall, I genuinely liked this section. It’s easy to get to, not too demanding, and the scenery makes it feel worth it. Whether you’re doing it as a stand-alone hike or part of the full trail, this is one I’d confidently recommend if you just want a good, enjoyable day outdoors. ❤️
👉 Continue reading: Hong Kong Trail Section 5 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!
