As a vibrant international metropolis, Hong Kong’s attractions go beyond its busy urban areas. The city also offers plenty of choices for outdoor pursuits, including hiking, trail running, mountain biking, camping, water sports, and orienteering. Designed to help you and your family enjoy more active daily experiences, this article features a range of local outdoor activities and facilities, highlighting the unique charm of a city where modern life blends with nature.
Hong Kong's country parks host a variety of trails that cater to different hiking preferences and needs. Those seeking a challenge can opt for long-distance hiking trails, while hikers looking to enjoy scenic views can stroll along country paths. Enjoy easier, flatter family walks for a family-friendly option, or explore nature trails with interpretative signs about local flora and fauna. In particular, the Tree Walk offers a shorter route and specialised knowledge about trees.
Among Hong Kong’s many different routes, the four long-distance hiking trails stand out as popular choices:
These trails are divided into several sections, each with different difficulty levels. If you seek a greater challenge, routes like the “Three Sharp Peaks” (Sharp Peak, High Junk Peak, and Castle Peak) are more suitable for trail running enthusiasts. For beginners or those wanting a more relaxed experience, consider routes such as the Aberdeen Nature Trail or the Tai Mo Shan Family Walk in Rotary Park — many of which can be completed within an hour and serve as great starting points.
It is also important to note that many trails are connected to recreational facilities within country parks, providing comprehensive outdoor spaces for activities and rest. While planning your itinerary, you can explore nearby amenities such as mountain biking trails, orienteering courses, campsites, barbecue sites, fitness trails, and jogging tracks for a unique outdoor experience. Moreover, nature education centres and visitor centres within country parks not only provide hiking information and guided tours, but also host periodic themed exhibitions to make outdoor activities both entertaining and educational.
Alongside hiking adventures through the mountainous terrain, you can explore diverse outdoor scenery and activities along Hong Kong’s extensive coastline. There are six marine parks open to the public, where visitors can enjoy water sports such as swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, and more. The Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park even features a visitor centre, exhibitions, and guided activities, allowing you to observe coral reefs, lime kilns, and mangroves up close while deepening your understanding of marine ecology recreationally.
Continuing the ecological journey within marine parks, the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark guides you on an exploration of the city’s geological wonders, from cerulean seas to a geological history spanning hundreds of millions of years. In the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region, you can walk along the High Island Geo Trail to admire hexagonal rock columns and wave-cut landforms. Meanwhile, the Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region showcases the beauty of sedimentary rock formations in locations such as Tung Ping Chau and Lai Chi Chong.
Lastly, the Hong Kong Geopark has visitor centres and story rooms that feature interactive exhibitions, guided activities, informative displays, and more. These amenities present an effortless way to learn about Hong Kong’s unique geological features and culture during outdoor experiences.
With a wealth of diverse hiking trails, well-equipped country parks, ecologically rich marine parks, and spectacular geoparks, Hong Kong’s great outdoors has something to offer for everyone. Before setting off, simply keep in mind preparations for activities that suit your preference — and you will be ready to discover the unparalleled natural charm of Hong Kong.
The information provided is for reference only and is subject to periodic updates. For the latest information, please visit the relevant website.