Dragon's back hike
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Dragon's back - by Emma Lin on Unsplash
Description
Dragon's Back is the nickname of what is perhaps the best hike on Hong Kong Island (but not the entire territory). It is very scenic with good views over Shek-O and Big Wave Bay and hardly technical. Formally, it is the section 8 of the Hong Kong trail and owe its name to the "mountain" ridge on the top of which it snakes its way in the Shek-O Country Park. The total length is 8.5km which can take 2.5 to 4h depending on the fitness level and number of photo stops. It can also be shortened by starting just south of Chai Wan
Access & Transport
The trail can be done in both directions, starting in Big Wave Bay or on Shek-O road near the To Tei Wan village. By public transport, one should alight at Shau Kei Wan station, near the eastern end of the Island (blue) line and take the minibus 9 from there. It covers Shek-O road all the way to the Big Wave Bay parking lot. For those who want to skip the Big Wave Bay side of the trail and only cover the most scenic section, it is possible to start the hike near the intersection of Shek-O and Collinson roads or alternatively by alighting at Chai Wan MTR station and walking up straight through the very steep Chinese cemetery, which should take about 30 mins.
Instructions & Recommendations
The trail is single track dirt path and not smooth so proper footwear is highly recommended (standard sneakers will do if it has not rained) and there is no water point so make sure you carry sufficient water, especially if temperatures are close to or above 30 deg. (keeping in mind the high humidity level in HK). Leaving from Big Wave Bay will provide better views going down the ridge but finishing there is better for those who want to spend time at the beach afterwards (snacks and drinks are available).
Environmental & Social
Green activity and socially neutral
Conclusion
Dragon's back is a very scenic and fairly easy trail to hike but it has become so popular that it can get quite crowded on the weekends during the fall and winter seasons when the weather is best. In a way, it is a bit over-rated, especially for more serious hikers who can definitely find trails that are more demanding and/or have more impressive views, in particular in the Sai Kung Country Park area or on Lantau Island. That being said, the hike is an excellent half-day out, a little strenuous but not too much. You can also enjoy a dip at Big Wave Bay beach or even Shek-O
Key positive
A great combo option with Big Wave or Shek-O beaches
Scenic and beginner / family friendly
Key negative
No water points along the way
Potential crowds on weekends but can be avoided by going early in the day or on a weekday
Suitability
Suitable for all ages but recommended for 8 - 65yrs old. The trail is not accessible for people with reduced mobility.
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h
est. visit time:3h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo