Forget the likes of the Morning Trail and tackle some of the city’s more exciting and lesser trekked hikes.
DESCRIPTION
This is a moderate-hard trek for experienced hikers leading into the ranges high above the northeast New Territories. You climb steeply up the Nam Chung Country Trail to the cool views on the plateau at Ping Teng Au at about 300m. You then leave the Country Trail and ascend the north side of Ping Fung Shan to join the Wilson Trail on the ridge line at just over 500m altitude. Then it’s a straightforward (but undulating) ridge walk for 4.5km, with several ascents and descents of 50-80m over a high point of 639m, until you reach the eastern end of the ridge at Hsien Ku Fung. On a clear day, it has great views across this section of the New Territories. From there head briefly north, still on the Wilson Trail, and walk down steep rocky steps until you intersect with the Pat Sin Leng Nature Trail, which takes you back through the woods to Bride’s Pool Road, and then a final kilometre down the road to Tai Mei Tuk where you can get some well-earned refreshments. From Tai Mei Tuk there are frequent minibuses back to Tai Po MTR station.
USEFUL INFO
The hike is on well-defined dirt trails, with steep and sometimes rocky steps both up and down for extended climbs and descents. Please wear hiking shoes or strong trainers with a good tread. Those with dodgy knees should bring a pole. This route requires a good level of fitness for some serious hill climbing. It’s not a technically difficult hike, but beginners should be gym-fit and psychologically prepared to walk for six hours. Remember, there are no exits from this route. Bring plenty of water (at least three litres) and some snacks. Also bring a hat and sunblock – most of this route is very exposed to the sun and there is no shade.
TIME OUT RATING
Speed: 2.5
Length: 3 (about 14-15km)
Gradient (Ascent): 4.5 (about 900m in total)
Surface: 2.5 (well marked trails but some steep steps)
Overall: 3.5
GETTING THERE
It takes around an hour from Central MTR Station to get to Fanling. Take Exit A and get the 56B minibus, alighting just before its destination in Tan Chuk Hang.