What Is the Dragon’s Back Trail and Why Is It Hong Kong’s Most Popular Hike? – Nature, Adventure, and Discovery

One of the most popular hiking trails in Hong Kong, the Dragon’s Back Trail is beautiful and easy to reach. The hike brings you amazing views of the sea, mountains, and islands. Why is the trail named the Dragon’s Back? The path looks like a dragon’s back, with ups and downs along the hills. People seem to love it because it’s not too hard and offers a chance to breathe in fresh, cool mountain air, and the scenery is breathtaking. It sure is an excellent way to escape the busy city and enjoy nature.

img via flickr

Dragon’s Back Trail 

Located in the southeast region of Hong Kong Island, the Dragon’s Back Trail runs along a curved mountain ridge in Shek O Country Park. At the start, the hike is a gentle climb through a wooded area leading to the Dragon’s Back Viewing Point, where gorgeous views of green hills and the rocky coastline await you. The trail ends at Big Wave Bay, a soft, white beach. The path is partly paved, but there are also rocky sections, which are sure to make your hike a bit challenging and interesting. Along the trail, there are numerous marked points to guide you through the forest and lead you to breathtaking sights.It’s easy to get to from the city. For example, from Cosmo Hotel Hong Kong, which is a four-star Hong Kong boutique hotel, the trail is about 20 minutes away, depending on traffic and the mode of transportation.

To Tei Wan

The trail starts next to the To Tei Wan bus stop. You see Tai Tam Bay on your right, and just below the trees is To Tei Wan Bay, a small bay with a sandy beach and a village. Before starting the hike, make it a point to visit this quiet beach and take a short walk while enjoying the views of the sea, Stanley, Redhill Peninsula, and Tai Tam Country Park in the distance. The beach is only about 10 minutes away – just cross the road and follow the signposts. When you come back, the trail will be just across the road!

Shek O Peninsula Viewing Point

Dragon’s Back is the last section of the 50-kilometer Hong Kong Trail, which starts at The Peak. The beginning of the hike involves a short uphill walk on a shaded, wooded path. You’ll find a steep 500-meter section with steps, which can be quite challenging. After the climb, you reach a clearing with the Shek O Peninsula Viewing Point. Take a minute to rest on the wooded terrace area, enjoy the cool breeze, and take in the stunning views. Once you’ve had your fill, you can continue your hike.

Shek O Peak

Getting to the top of Shek O Peak can take at least an hour. Don’t rush it, though – take your time and enjoy the hike. Along the way, you’ll find small openings through which you can see Shek O Wan and the coastline, but the best views are yet to come. At the top is a serene open area with reddish soil and a beautiful panorama of the Shek O Peninsula. From here, you can view Big Wave Bay and the winding trail that looks like a dragon’s back.

Pottinger Gap

Another beautiful viewpoint you find along the trail, Pottinger Gap, is an open area surrounded by woods. There’s a pavilion here where you can rest in the shade. The downhill path from here leads to Big Wave Bay. Don’t just walk on – take a second to admire the view of the tall buildings in Chai Wan.

Big Wave Beach 

This is the final stop of your hike. Walk down the concrete steps into the village, then follow the signposted path to the beach. During your walk, you get to see glimpses of the white sand beach through the trees. This beach is loved by surfers because of its – well, you guessed it – big waves. Even if you’re not a surfer, it’s a great place to visit, especially at sunset.