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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 06 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Lee Cobaj

While Lantau Island has the MacLehose Trail, Hong Kong Island has the Dragon’s Back. This dazzling urban hike rises and falls over 5 miles of sub-tropical terrain looping around the east of the island, from Shek O beach to Big Wave Bay. It takes around 2 hours.

There are some spectacular views to be had along the way, out across the South China Sea, over to Lamma Island and of the city’s skyscrapers dancing in the distance.

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 8+
When: All year around
Duration: 2 hours

Getting there & doing it

The starting point for the Dragon’s Back is on Shek O Road, which can be reached by taking the Island Line of the MTR to Shaukeiwan and then switching to the number 9 minibus. Ask the driver to drop you at the To Tei Wan stop. Alternatively, a taxi from Central shouldn’t cost any more than $150.

You can also do the trail in reverse, leaving from Big Wave Bay and ending on Shek O beach. The climbs feel a little easier in this direction. Either way, there are plenty of signposts along the way to ensure you won’t get lost.

Most of the route is on dirt paths, the first half has very little shade and you won’t find any shops along the way, so make sure you’re well prepared, particularly in the hot summer months.

When to do it

Hongkongers take to the trails year-round but visitors may find the hot and sticky summer months too oppressive for hiking. The cooler, less humid autumn months, from September to early December, is the best time of year for any outdoor activities in Hong Kong.

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

The Dragon's Back Hiking Tour, Hong Kong

Hong Kong SAR

The Dragon's Back Hiking Tour, Hong Kong
One of the finest hikes in Hong Kong, the Dragon's Back is a classic trail that combines many of the area's finest attributes. From mountain ridges and sheltered forest trails to the white sands of Big Wave Bay, it's no surprise that Dragon's Back has been hailed as Asia's best urban hike.

Price: H946

Rating 4.72 / 5 [29 ratings]

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