Tai Mo Shan hike
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Tai Mo Shan - by Eric Kuong on Google
Description
Tai Mo Shan is Hong Kong highest peak, culminating at 957m where the Hong Kong Observatory weather station is located. The peak acts as the centre point of the Tai Mo Shan Country Park that is accessible by road and multiple trails, including section 8 of the MacLehose trail. There are many hike options of varying length.
Access & Transport
The starting / end points most frequently used include Shing Mug Reservoir, Lead Mine Camp, Kadoorie Farm and Rotary Club Campsite. All of those besides Kadoorie Farm are accessed from the southern side of the Tai Mo Shan range.
Instructions & Recommendations
The trails can be steep and rocky so proper footwear is required - but need not be ankle high. There are few, if any, water points or even opportunities to buy drinks 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). Unless you are looking at an out-and-back you will end in a different point from where you started so bear that in mind when planning your transport.
Environmental & Social
Green activity and socially neutral
Conclusion
Hiking Tai Mo Shan is a good option for those looking to escape the city - it can be accessed from several points and therefore can be seen as less time consuming than alternatives in the Sai Kung peninsula or Lantau. However, the views are not as impressive (even though it is more proeminent), probably because the location is not near the sea.
Key positive
Good trails requiring a different range of fitness level
Impressive views if you are lucky with the weather
Not crowded
Key negative
The Observatory is not open to the public
Insufficient water points
Suitability
Most sections require some degree of fitness and there is little to do for kids so mostly recommended for 12 - 65 years old. Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h
est. visit time:4h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningNo
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo