[Beginner Hiking Trails] Easy and Simple! 3 Great Hiking Spots for Beginners Recommended

Hiking allows you to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and breathe fresh air, making it a top choice for a holiday activity for many people in Hong Kong. Although Hong Kong is full of skyscrapers, it hides many scenic hiking trails. However, for first-time hikers, there might be concerns about not having enough stamina, getting lost easily, or not knowing how to prepare. JC Fit City recommends three hiking trails suitable for beginners and provides a practical guide to help everyone take their first step with ease and fully enjoy the fun of hiking.

A Must-Read Guide for Beginner Hikers

1. Basic Equipment

When hiking, choose breathable, sweat-wicking clothing and sports pants or hiking pants. Wearing non-slip, comfortable hiking shoes or athletic shoes is more convenient. You can also prepare a lightweight backpack to carry your hiking supplies. It is recommended to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a towel.

2. Water and Snacks

Prepare enough drinking water according to the length of the trail; it is recommended to bring at least 1 liter. Besides drinking water, snacks are also very important. Eating at the right time can effectively replenish your energy. You can bring light and high-energy snacks, such as energy bars, fruits, nuts, etc.

3. Safety First

Most hiking trails are located in rural areas and are susceptible to weather changes. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you set off. You should plan your route in advance and download an offline map for emergencies. Try to hike with friends so you can look out for each other, and inform your family or friends of your hiking plan. When hiking, be sure to protect the countryside and remember to "take your litter home" to jointly protect our beautiful natural environment.

3 Great Hiking Spots for Beginners Recommended

1. High Island Geo Trail - East Dam Section

Here you can admire world-class, magnificent geological landscapes, including hexagonal rock columns formed from the cooling and contraction of a mixture of lava, rock debris, and volcanic ash about 140 million years ago—a must-visit for photos! There is also a wooden boardwalk where you can get a close look at a sea cave.

● District: Sai Kung District
● Length: Approx. 2.8 km
● Estimated time: Approx. 2-3 hours (including rest and photo time)
● Difficulty: 1 star (relatively easy)
● Transportation:
○ To "Sheung Yiu" bus stop:
■ Take KMB route 94 (operates daily).
■ Take KMB route 96R or 289R (Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays only).
○ To "High Island Reservoir East Dam":
■ First arrive at "Pak Tam Chung," then transfer to Green Minibus route 9A (Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays only).

2. Pok Fu Lam Tree Walk

The Pok Fu Lam Tree Walk is the first educational trail in Hong Kong themed on local trees. Starting from The Peak Galleria, it winds along the picturesque Lugard Road. Not only is it a lookout point with unbeatable views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong Island city center, but you can also observe many interesting plant species along the way, including the Sterculia lanceolata with its orange-red star-shaped fruit and the strange-fruited Reevesia thyrsoidea.

● District: Hong Kong Island District
● Length: Approx. 3.2 km
● Estimated time: Approx. 1-2 hours
● Difficulty: 1 star (very flat and easy to walk)
● Transportation:
○ You can take the Peak Tram, Citybus routes X15, 15, 15B, or Green Minibus route 1.
○ After reaching The Peak, walk along Peak Road towards The Peak Tower to the start of Lugard Road.

3. Shing Mun Country Park (Paperbark Tree Forest)

Although there are uphill and downhill sections, the trail is densely shaded, making it a suitable route for beginner hikers. The beautiful reflection of the trees on the opposite shore in the reservoir is also a great spot for photos, and the unique scenery of the paperbark tree forest is refreshing for the mind and body.

● District: Central New Territories
● Length: Approx. 3.8 km
● Estimated time: Approx. 2 hours
● Difficulty: 2 stars (shady and easy to walk)
● Transportation: Take public transport to the "Ho Fung College" bus stop. Available KMB routes include: 32, 36, 36R, 40P, 40S, 40X, 46P, 46X, 47A, 47X, 48X, 73P, 73X, 936, N36, N48, 234C, 273C, 273P, 278A, 278P, 278X, 936A, and R936.

Post-Hike Stretching Tips

After completing your hike, proper cool-down activities can help your body recover. You can do simple stretches, such as stretching the muscles of your thighs, calves, and arms. Also, remember to replenish the water your body has lost in a timely manner.

To learn more about stretching exercises: 5 Major Benefits of Stretching! Recommended Stretches You Can Do at Home or in the Office

Hong Kong has many scenic hiking trails suitable for beginners. We hope JC Fit City's introduction can help you choose a route you like. Why not invite your friends and family to explore together and experience the charm of nature!