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Lazy Hikes: Mount Parker Road to Tai Tam Road

Don't say you're going on a hike and then never actually follow through—here's one of our easy-peasy picks.

Part of the Hong Kong Trail (an 11-kilometer extended walking route crossing through the Island) the section that takes you from Mount Parker to Tai Tam Road is generally regarded as one of its easiest parts.

Taking approximately an hour and 30 minutes to complete, this particular trail consists of mostly flat ground and shaded paths. At 532 meters, Mount Parker is the second highest peak on the island, overlooking the Quarry Bay area in the east. One of the few mountains in Hong Kong which has escaped mass residential development, the trail provides a tranquil and comfortable environment for hikers; in particular, a natural canopy of sorts exists because of the abundance of trees acting to shield them from the piercing sun. You will also find a number of rare species of vegetation along the way.

Starting on the Mount Parker Road trail and heading through the shielded path, walk slightly uphill towards the direction of Tai Tam by following the signs; you will soon arrive at Tai Tam Reservoir. Carry on along the dam, where you can admire panoramic views of the surrounding hills. The route is soon connected to Tai Tam Reservoir Road, which will take you towards designated barbecue areas. Here you’ll find yourself looking at a small piece of Hong Kong history in a structure known as the “red brick house”—the former sugar factory staff quarters owned by Swire (or Taikoo), which is also behind the Taikoo Shing residential development at the bottom of Mount Parker. Follow the road that turns into a path leading towards the Tai Tam Intermediate Reservoir, and 20 minutes later you will find yourself reaching the end of this trail.

Getting There: The starting point of the Mount Parker Road country trail is a short walk from the Quarry Bay MTR station’s exit A; otherwise, it can also be reached through a variety of bus routes, including 2 from Central and 2A from Wan Chai Pier.

Back to Easy Walking Trails main page.

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