Dragon's Back, Hong Kong, China

5Mairwen1 5:00 PM Mar 16, 2021

Conquering the Dragon
Dragon's Back is one of the most popular trails in Hong Kong and is incredibly scenic. It is actually part of the 50 km long Hong Kong Hiking Trail (Stage 8). What makes this walk so special is the fact that for the most part, you have a stunning, bird’s eye views for the whole of the walk. It’s not just a couple of lookout points – the views stretch for kilometres. The other big plus is that the trail ends at Big Wave Bay so you can jump in the ocean and have something to eat at a local cafe. This is a manageable walk for most people. There are some uphill and downhill stretches but it is mostly flat natural terrain along a mountain ridge. The first part is very steep but this is the only really tough part. There are a couple of hundred steps but then that’s the hard part done. Once you hit the ridge, the rest of the walk is essentially level. This exposed ridge is what forms the spine of the dragon’s back (hence the name) and is a gently undulating walk. Shek O Peak is the highest point (284 metres) and is marked by a black and white post. There is an option to do the shorter looped trail (3km) but we prefer to continue onto Big Wave Bay (8km). Allow about 2 – 2.5 hours. The walk is well sign-posted and the paths are very clear. There is a toilet block at start of trail. Water, sunscreen and a hat are essentials as it is quite exposed and there’s nowhere to buy anything. You’ll need sensible walking shoes because the dirt paths can be stony. I find the gravelly parts slippery also. GETTING HERE: It is a bit of a trek by public transport. From Central, take the Island Line MTR to Shau Kei Wan station and the A3 exit, then catch bus #9 to To Tei Wan. It should be 11 stops but you will probably see other hikers getting off at the same stop. The trail starts at the bus stop and has a large wooden sign post. A taxi is easier, will take about 20 min. From memory it was around $150-160HKD

4BradJill 5:00 PM Jan 4, 2022

Easy and popular trail in the Shek O Country Park
The Dragon's Back Trail is one of the most popular urban hikes in all of Hong Kong. Located in the Shek O Country Park, this is an easy, well-surfaced and maintained trail with a few moderately difficult ascends. As such, you will find hikers and walkers of all fitness levels doing this hike, including families with little ones. Most begin at the southern end of the trail near Tei Wan Village and make the roughly 8km hike north to Big Wave Bay. Bus route 9 from Shau Kei Wan (MTR Exit A) to Shek O has a drop off at To Tei Wan at the Dragon's Back trailhead. At Big Wave Bay, you can take red minibus to 'Shau Kei Wan' or call in a taxi when ready to head back to the city. The Dragon's Back Trail is particularly impressive in the southern section where it winds a ridge and provides rewarding views the Shek O Peninsula and sea to the east. To the west, you will be able to see much of the southern side of Hong Kong Island. When sky conditions are favourable, the views are outstanding. The northern half of the trail is very flat and easy for walking, it winds through forested and some exposed parts. There are a few places with tables to rest and public toilets. You'll also find a couple of places to link up with other trails such as the Pottinger Road and Gap north of the final descend into Big Wave Bay. Overall, Dragon's Back is a good trail. It is accessible, easy to hike, views can be outstanding on clear days. Unfortunately, this means heavy foot traffic as well, particularly on weekends and public holidays. Keep that in mind if planning on including this hike during your time in Hong Kong.