Dragon’s Back Trail is an award-winning hiking trail that has been voted the best urban hike in Asia by Times Magazine. The 4-hour hike is a popular draw for tourists and locals, who flock to the mountain to escape the frenzy of Hong Kong.
Seeing Hong Kong from the peak of Dragon’s Back offers a different perspective that helps you appreciate the beauty and complexity of Hong Kong and the surrounding islands.
(Dragon’s Back gets its name from the winding and twisting paths along the peak of the mountain.)
First Things First
Getting around Hong Kong can be a bit daunting for first-timers. Finding and even planning activities can be pretty time-consuming especially if you’re on a tight schedule.
We booked our Dragon’s Back Trail via Klook to save time. Since it was our first time to Dragons Back booking a tour made sense.
For best rates check out Klook: Dragon’s Back Trail
How To Get There
It’s best to take advantage of Hong Kong’s highly efficient MTR subway system.
Go to Shau Kei Wan Station, get out at Exit A, and there you will see a bus terminal directly in front of where you exit. Catch the #9 Bus heading to Shek O.
Look for the Number 9 Bus at the terminal right in front of the MTR station.
After a 30-minute ride, the Bus will drop passengers at the start of Dragon’s Back Trail.
Saftey Tips
Our Guide Rory explained a bit of about the history of the trail and what to expect.
He has been touring visitors around Dragons back for a number of years now and knows the trail like the back of his hand. He advised us to stay hydrated and walk at a comfortable pace.
There are maps and signages that help hikers find their way.
Also, emergency call boxes can be found on the trail.
Use the toilets at the entrance to the hike as we hadn’t come across anymore on our trip.
The steepest part of Dragons Back is the First 30 minutes which is the most challenging — but not that difficult.
Beginners, and children could easily make the climb.
The rest of the hike is made up of small hills that lead to the peak.
The Highest point on the trail is Shek O Peak where you will have a stunning 360° view of Hong Kongs amazing coastline.
The views are absolutely gorgeous.
Tourist and Locals flock to the peak to enjoy a number of outdoor activities.
Along the way down you’ll have one of the best views of Hong Kong.
(Pictures don’t really do these views any justice.)
Your final stop on the 3-hour hike is at Tai Long Bay / Big Wave Bay.
The small, white sand beach is a nice way to end the hike where you can kick back and relax.
(Tai Long Bay / Big Wave Bay can also be reached by minibus directly from Shau Kai Wan Station)
The beach is also a popular draw for surfers.
Final Thoughts
A perfect hike for beginners, and some of the most breathtaking views in all of Hong Kong.
Dragon’s Back Trail is a perfect outdoor activity that almost anyone can enjoy. The 3-hour hike was worth it!
The hike itself isn’t so bad, the first 30 minutes are the most difficult, but after that is was pretty mild. We were taken in by the beauty of the Hong Kong countryside, and the landscape itself almost seemed like it was painted.
We recommend the hike for anyone who loves the outdoors and nature, it’s perfect for families but very small children might have a hard time so plan appropriately.
Live an Awesome Life,
SEAN NOLAN of Team Our Awesome Planet
Disclosure: Our Dragons Back Trail Hike was courtesy of Klook. I wrote this article with my biases, opinions, and insights.
P.S. Getting Back To Civilization
From Tai Long Bay / Big Wave Bay, you can catch the Mini Red bus directly to Shau Kai Wan Station.
The Mini Red Buses run from 8:30-am to 24:30-pm daily.
Fare: 10.00 HKD