6 mask-friendly hikes in Hong Kong

To curb the coronavirus outbreak, the government has made mask-wearing mandatory in all outdoor public places – with no exemptions for trail runners and hikers. This has left many Hong Kongers wondering exactly how to stay active and get their step count up. With 40 degree weather upon us, there is no better time to get out and about (while taking necessarily safety and social distancing precautions). If you’re looking for take on the great outdoors, here are the best mask-friendly hikes that you can complete within an hour.

Read more: 5 easy Hong Kong hiking trails for beginners

Rhino Rock

As you can probably guess, this trail takes you to a rhino-shaped rock formation. The funny-looking rock is found at the edge of a cliff and resembles the side profile of a rhinoceros. The hike is one of the shortest in Hong Kong – just one-kilometre each way and takes less than 30 minutes to complete. It is a short and sweet walk for when the cabin fever is creeping in. Just remember to keep your mask for the photo op.

How to get there: From Central Exchange Square take Bus 6 and alight at The Stanley Fort bus stop on Wong Ma Kok Road.

Lung Ha Wan Country Trail

With a short and easy walk leading up to its summit, Lung Ha Wan Country Trail is perfect for those wanting a hiking experience without feeling suffocated. The three-hour circular hike will take you above Clearwater Bay Country Park where you can enjoy fresh air while overlooking Sai Kung and the outlying islands.

How to get there: From Tseung Kwan O MTR Station, take Exit C to Popcorn Public Transport Interchange and board Minibus 103M to Tai Au Mun.

Bowen Road

Popular with joggers and dog-walkers alike, Bowen Road is the perfect place for an evening stroll, offering panoramic views of Central, Wan Chai and Happy Valley. The four-kilometre trail is paved and flat with plenty of rest stops, so you’ll never be short of breath – even with your mask on.

How to get there: From Admiralty Station, take Exit C1 and board Bus No.15 to Hong Kong Adventist Hospital on Stubbs Road. Cross over to reach the start of the Bowen Road trail.

Braemar Hill

This short 20-minute hike will take you to one of Hong Kong’s most iconic viewing points. The trail starts off steep but soon flattens out. Follow the red ribbons conveniently located along the route and be rewarded with stunning views of Hong Kong Island.

How to get there: From Causeway Bay take minibus 25 to Braemar Hill Bus Terminus. Cross the road to Hau Yuen Path and pick up the trail next to Chinese International School.

Trio Beach

This scenic stroll in Sai Kung leads you to the neighbourhood’s best beach (as voted in our Sai Kung Readers’ Choice Awards). The trail is mainly flat with a gradual incline half-way through and takes only 30 minutes to complete. With the current beach regulations, you won’t be able to take a dip in the sea, but you can still cool off in the shaded grassland nearby.

How to get there: From Hang Hau MTR Station take Minibus 101M and alight at Tai Chung Hau bus stop. Walk down to Che Keng Tuk Road and follow the signs for SKIP Playgroup, where you will find the start of the trail.

Peak Circle Walk

A classic in our books, this scenic trail is the perfect way to up your step count and enjoy some of Hong Kong’s finest views. The walk is mostly shaded, so it’s easy to stop and take a breather when things get tough.

How to get there: From Exchange Square Bus Terminus hop aboard KMB 15 and alight at the Peak Tower. The trail begins at Lugard Road.