Conquer Hong Kong's 100km MacLehose Trail: Beginner's Guide to Stages

The MacLehose Trail is Hong Kong's longest hiking route at 100 km, divided into 10 stages stretching from Pak Tam Chung in Sai Kung in the east to Tuen Mun in the west.

Interest in long-distance trails remains steady among residents seeking outdoor options away from dense urban areas, particularly as cooler months approach and people plan weekend or multi-day escapes within the territory.

Stage 1 runs from Pak Tam Chung to Long Ke for 10.6 km and takes around three hours, while Stage 10 from Tin Fu Tsai to Tuen Mun covers 15.6 km and takes about five hours. Beginners are advised to start with Stage 1 or 2, which together total 23.2 km and take roughly 7.5 hours, because the early sections stay relatively flat around High Island Reservoir before steeper climbs appear later in Stage 2.

Stages

The full route breaks into ten distinct segments that allow hikers to tackle shorter portions or combine them over several days. Stage 1 provides a manageable introduction with gentler gradients, and combining it with Stage 2 gives a solid first outing before attempting longer or more demanding sections further west.

Transport

Access to the eastern starting point at Pak Tam Chung is straightforward using public transport. Options include taking the MTR to Wong Tai Sin followed by green minibus 18 to Sha Tin Pass Road, or riding the MTR to Hang Hau and then a taxi to Pak Tam Chung. Bus 94 also operates from Sai Kung Town directly to Pak Tam Chung.

Tips for Beginners

Key advice for those new to the trail includes carrying ample water and supplies because no shops operate along the route. Hikers should travel east to west to follow the natural progression of difficulty. The period from July to September should be avoided due to heat and rain, and a full crossing is best planned over six to seven days for a more relaxed pace. These steps help reduce risks and improve the overall experience on Hong Kong's longest marked trail.