wellness

The Hidden Nature Walks Locals Love But Tourists Miss

Residents seek out lesser-known trails in Hong Kong country parks for quiet exercise away from crowded viewpoints.

By Hong Kong Wellness Desk · Published 25 July 2026

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Early on 8 July 2026, groups of Hong Kong residents set out along unmarked paths in the Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve before the heat builds.

Department of Health clinics across districts have promoted daily outdoor movement since updated activity guidelines took effect in late 2025, and many residents now avoid the packed Dragon's Back route in favour of quieter alternatives inside the same country-park network.

Walkers begin at the small car park near Tai Po Kau Forest Reserve entrance on Tai Po Road and follow the red-marked trail that loops past the old forestry station before descending to the stream. Another popular option lies inside Shing Mun Country Park, where locals enter from the lower dam access road off Tai Po Road and climb the 2.5-kilometre circuit that circles the reservoir without passing any lookout platforms.

Trail lengths and access details

The Leisure and Cultural Services Department lists the full MacLehose Trail at 100 kilometres, yet the Tai Po Kau loop covers only 3.8 kilometres and requires no permit. Entry to both reserves remains free, while a basic map printed by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department costs HK$12 at the Shing Mun visitor centre. A 2024 department count recorded 1.2 million visits to Tai Po Kau, with the majority occurring on weekends; weekday mornings still see steady local use from nearby housing estates.

Park rangers advise carrying at least one litre of water per person during July and August. The Department of Health website lists eight district clinics that stock free electrolyte sachets for anyone who registers for the monthly outdoor-walking programme. Residents who prefer company can join the Wednesday morning sessions run by the Hong Kong Hiking Association at the Shing Mun lower dam gate at 7:30 a.m.

Before leaving home, check the LCSD mobile app for any temporary trail closures posted that day and carry an Octopus card for the return bus from either site.

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