Dragon’s Back Trail – Easiest Hike in Hong Kong (Maybe? Maybe Not?)

The Dragon’s Back Trail is a popular hike in Hong Kong, probably due to its easy accessibility from the city. My boyfriend and I loved the short escape from the bustle of the city. The change of scenery made us feel relaxed during our holiday. You can look forward to spectacular coastal views and beautiful views of Shek O, Tai Long Wan, Stanley, Tai Tam, and the South China Sea.

Here’s why the trail is called “Dragon’s Back” – It is a path connecting Wan Cham Shan (226 metres) and Shek O Peak (284 metres), stretching vertically over D’Aguilar Peninsula. The path undulates between these hill tops, reminiscent of the shape of a dragon’s backbone.

The entrance to the Dragon’s Back Trail on Shek O Road is a mysterious tree tunnel with natural shades, bamboo groves, dense thickets and roots crawling on the floor. Soon, the path will lead you to sunshine as you ascend. After hiking for just around 20 minutes, you arrive at a scenic spot over the breathtaking scenery of Shek O Beach in the east and the magnificent Dragon’s Back in the north-west.

At 284 metres high, the hilltop sightseeing platform on Shek O Peak is the perfect place to catch your breath while enjoying the panorama of Shek O, Tai Long Wan and even Tung Lung Island. Follow the rolling ridge from Shek O Peak to Wan Cham Shan to conquer the ‘dragon’. This path with fluttering butterflies, a refreshing breeze and open vistas makes for an enjoyable hike.

We only completed the Dragon’s Back Trail but not the entire hike to Tai Long Wan. Instead of choosing the same route from where we started the Dragon’s Back Trail, we took a longer way which was easier. However, we had a horrifyingly close encounter with a wild boar. The aggressive growls which came from the bushes caught our attention, and thankfully, a group of mountain bikers took the same route and their speed scared off the wild boar. Please stay safe, be alert and be wary of your surroundings during the hike.

Just check out all our drone shots – good enough to motivate you to hike the Dragon’s Back? I’ll be embarking on more hikes in Hong Kong soon, so stay tuned for incredible views!

Dragon’s Back Trail
Directions: The path starts at Shek O Road near To Tei Wan Village and you will end the hike at Tai Long Wan. There are two ways to arrive at Shek O Road. For the budget travellers, take the Island Line MTR to Shau Kei Wan Station. Take Exit A3 and look for Bus No. 9 (the red minibus) at the Shau Kei Wan Bus Terminus. Hop onto the bus and alight at To Tai Wan. It’s hard to miss the stop as you can watch for other hikers alighting together. Once you get off at To Tai Wan, follow the path leading up the hill to the Dragon’s Back Trail. If you prefer a faster method, take the Island Line MTR to Chai Wan Station and grab a cab. The trip should cost around $60 HKD.

Duration of Hike: Approximately 4 hours

Level of Difficulty: 2/5 (It can get pretty hot because the trail is not sheltered and there aren’t any replenishing stations along the way, so it’ll be good to bring along food and water.)