Lion Rock -The WILD Column

IN THE OCTOBER ARTICLE OF OUR MONTHLY COLUMN IN SAI KUNG/SOUTHSIDE MAGAZINES; WE SCALE THE LION ROCK!!

For those who thought The Peak was the most dramatic summit looming over Victoria Harbour, think again. There is a roaring lion to north.
 
It may not be as well known, but the Lion Rock is right up there in terms of grandeur. Conquer this rugged ridge and one will witness some of Hong Kong’s finest views. Feel the intense sprawl of Kowloon and enjoy the iconic backdrop of HK Island behind. Meanwhile a gaze round the other side reveals Sha Tin Valley and the expansive hills of the New Territories. Not only is being at the top incredible, but the walking to be had either side is most enjoyable.

Mid afternoons make an ideal time to set off, ensuring cooler temperatures and sunset vistas from the summit. The route up is easily accessed from Wong Tai Sin MTR Station. Find exit E and begin climbing up Sha Tin Pass Road, stay on Sha Tin Pass Road and you shall gradually rise above the tower blocks of Kowloon. After about 45 minutes of walking, you’ll intercept the MacLehose Trail and signage for the Lion Rock Country Park on your left hand side. This is where the real adventure begins.
 
Just before shooting up the dirt path, if one fancies a refreshing drink or bite to eat; then continue another 50 meters up Sha Tin Pass Road to discover a delightful little Dai Pai Dong.
 
Head back down to the Country Park sign and get stuck into an engaging ridge walk through lush forests. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, in particular monkeys! The path will undulate for an hour until arriving at the foot of the Lion Rock. From this juncture, follow the signposts for the Lion Rock and climb the staircase. Granted it may be hard work, but entirely worth it for what awaits.

Upon the reaching the summit at 495 meters above sea level, the footpath emerges from the undergrowth to reveal unrivaled panoramas of Kowloon and its surrounds. Pose for dramatic photos above large granite outcrops dating back to the Jurassic Period. Or take a perch, soaking up the relaxing vibes as skies darken and the vibrant lights from the millions below come to life.

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The return route down is fairly simple. Keep turning left at all junctions in the hiking trail and you’ll be back to civilization in an hour. The simplest way to the MTR is to turn left once reaching Lung Cheung Road and follow the highway into Wong Tai Sin. Alternatively, you can cross Lung Cheung Road and head into either Lok Fu or Kowloon Tong.
 
The whole walk should take the best part of four hours. An enjoyable way to extend one’s route is by continuing along the MacLehose Trail, either east towards Tate’s Cairn, or west towards Kowloon Reservoir. Be sure to bring a few light snacks and plenty of fluids for consumption along the way.

The Lion Rock is a classic year round hike almost anyone can have a crack at, yet one that keeps even the most seasoned of hikers honest. Its enchanted forests below and spectacular vistas above will no doubt leave one wanting to revisit for another go.
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