Hiking is fast becoming a popular recreational activity as it is a cheap and easy way to stay healthy.
Following the Sars outbreak, instructors have seen a leap in the number of people taking up hiking.
'Because of Sars two years ago, more people are suddenly concerned about their health and have taken to trekking and hiking,' said Whelan Leung, a qualified hiking and camping instructor with more than 24 years of experience.
'More people living in the city are taking to the countryside during their days off and holidays.'
According to Mr Leung, who has hiked and trekked in many parts of the world, Hong Kong should do more to offer natural hiking trails instead of constructing paved ones, as they can do more harm than good.
'Hikers can easily damage their knees and ankles as they walk on the hard paved surface. The authorities should not cover natural trails where possible,' he said.