MacLehose Trail Section 4: Challenging Route from Kei Ling Ha to Tai Lo Shan Offers First-Class Scenery
AM730 · 1 SOURCESabout 4 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The MacLehose Trail Section 4 hiking route from Kei Ling Ha to Tai Lo Shan delivers a physically demanding 12.7-kilometre journey through some of Hong Kong's most spectacular mountain landscapes . Starting near Shui Long Wo, the trail climbs sharply from 200 metres to 550 metres at Ma On Au, presenting hikers with one of the route's most challenging sections immediately . The path showcases the imposing Ma On Shan mountain, the distinctive S-shaped ridge of Wan Kuk Shan, and the expansive Ngong Ping Plateau, earning it a five-star rating for scenery . With no intermediate supply points and only taxi or a lengthy walk to public transport at the endpoint, thorough preparation is essential for completing this approximately five-hour hike .
Key Points
- The trail spans 12.7 kilometres from Kei Ling Ha, ascending 1,000 metres and descending 680 metres, requiring five hours for completion
- Hikers ascend from 200 metres to Ma On Au at 550 metres within the first 1.5 to 2 hours, passing through a bamboo forest tunnel before tackling the famous stair climb
- The S-shaped ridge of Wan Kuk Shan offers views combining wilderness and urban scenery, encompassing Sai Kung, Tai Kam Chung, and marine landscapes
- Ngong Ping Plateau features paragliding activities, the imposing Tai Kam Chung, and panoramic views of Sai Kung including white-sand beaches dotted with yachts
- The endpoint at Gillies Avenue Scout Camp offers only taxi service, with an additional 3-kilometre descent required to reach the nearest bus stop
Why It Matters
This route represents a significant attraction for hikers seeking to experience Hong Kong's diverse topography without venturing far from the city centre . As one of the MacLehose Trail's most challenging sections, it serves as a benchmark for assessing hikers' fitness levels and wilderness preparedness, while the growing popularity of the Ngong Ping Plateau as a sunrise viewing spot highlights the need for environmental awareness among visitors .
This route represents a significant attraction for hikers seeking to experience Hong Kong's diverse topography without venturing far from the city centre . As one of the MacLehose Trail's most challenging sections, it serves as a benchmark for assessing hikers' fitness levels and wilderness preparedness, while the growing popularity of the Ngong Ping Plateau as a sunrise viewing spot highlights the need for environmental awareness among visitors .