The Lion Rock Hill, or simply Lion Rock is one of the highest mountains in Hong Kong, sitting between Kowloon Tong and Tai Wai, touted as the best hiking trail. Perched at 495 meters high, the Lion Rock is a creative structure of rocks that basically resemble a sphinx-like seated Lion, hence, the name. The Lion Rock Hike is an adventurous yet worthwhile trek where the efforts of climbing are rewarded by glorious views of the Hong Kong scenic landscapes. If hiking in Hong Kong is part of one's itinerary, Lion's Rock should be on top of the list.
The hike up to the Lion Rock forms part 5 of the MacLehose Trail and is fortunately well signposted and marked for convenience. It is a great outdoor activity for everyone looking to explore the city in a uniquely fun way because it enables you to soak in the true essence of Hong Kong inclusive of its nature, impeccable skyline, traditional vibes of the underrated areas and beyond.
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Lion Rock Hike
Duration: Depending on how long you stop in between to capture images. for snacking, and your general speed/stamina, the hike up to the Lion Rock can take anywhere from 2-2.5 hours one way
Difficulty Level: The difficulty level is medium, meaning you should be able to complete it without any major struggle or wear and tear, even though it’ll require some strength and fitness.
Route: The distance covered in this hike up the Lion Rock top is about 6 km. There can be 2 approaches to the hike as per what suits you-
Beginning at the Lion Rock Tunnel Road, you’ll cross several barbeque sites and for about 30 minutes you should continue up to the Amah Rock. Another 30 minutes from here by following the well-demarcated signs/trail should make you reach the Lion Rock Top.
While you can begin from any place along Sha Tin Pass Road, the shortest one would be to start from the path beside Fat Jong Temple. If you want a longer hike option, continue to climb up Sha Tin Pass Road till the Lion Pavilion and the commencement point of stage 5 of the MacLehose and Wilson trails. From the Maclehose trail point, you can simply follow the sign marks to reach the Lion Rock top.
For coming back down, walk back in the direction of Beacon Hill till you reach the Lion Pavilion and follow the way down Chuk Yuen Road. In case you want to extend your hike, you can go onto reaching the Kowloon Peak after rejoining the stage 5 of the MacLehose trail and from there you can take a bus down back.
From the top of the Lion Rock, there are stunning locations to be seen from every perspective, no matter where you stand and which direction your gaze follows. Looking towards the Kowloon side, you will see the Hong Kong Island and its amazing skyline. On a good clear day at your west, you could see across the Lantau Island comprising of the Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery and the Disneyland to name a few attractions.
Looking out towards the east, you should be able to make out the Sai Kung East Country Park along with the neighboring islands surrounding it. A little away from the traditional glitzy and glamouring skyscrapers of the city, it is also possible to check out the iconic Hong Kong Skyline of Victoria Harbour. One thing which is unparalleled about the sweeping sights from the Lion Rock top are that it will all make you feel like the entire city is under your feet making every sweat drop more than worth it!
Just like most tourist spots, weekends and public holidays can be an abundantly populated time to take up this hike, so it is better to get going on weekdays. The views are best enjoyed and visible on clear skies days so make sure you don't go on a foggy day. Rain can make the pathways very slippery, so if it rained the previous day, then avoid going on the next day, and wait for the weather to become suitable accordingly.
Tips
1. Carry a lot of water to stay hydrated at all times. There are no vendors selling water along the hike. Also, it is best to carry some snacks/food items because such hikes can make you hungry easily and often! 2. Watch out for monkeys! You’ll come across quite a few of them and it is advised to not feed them or touch them in any manner for your own safety and to avoid any nuisance/inconvenience. 3. It may not be a difficult hike but it isn’t very easy either so be prepared to go on all fours sometimes, to feel the dirt collect under your nails and for other hikes/trek related shenanigans.
How To Reach Lion Rock
MTR: Hop onto an MTR and exit at the Wong Tai Sin station at the green line. From here, follow the Sha Tin Pass Road to the Fat Jong Temple. Keep following this road uphill till you arrive at the trailhead named ‘Lion Rock Country Park’ which is from where the hike begins.
Mini Bus: Another option is to take the minibus 19, 19M or 72 from Plaza Hollywood (taking exit C2 from MTR Diamond Hill) to get to the path from Sha Tin Pass Road next to the Fat Jong Temple and continue the same walking path as mentioned above.
If you are in for a little pre-hike walking for warm up, take the bus 170 or 182 from Hong Kong Island and get off at the tunnel toll plaza which is situated at the opening of the Lion Rock Country Park and has a trail beginning from there.
