Looking to escape Hong Kong’s concrete jungle without a grueling mountain climb? The trail from Quarry Bay to Tai Tam Reservoir is one of the city’s best-kept secrets for beginners. Blending lush greenery, flat shaded paths, and fascinating World War II history, this scenic walk offers a perfect weekend getaway. Whether you are a casual stroller or a first-time hiker, here is your complete guide to conquering this easy 2-to-3-hour trail
Trail Overview & Summary
The trail from start to finish takes about 2 to 3 hours and covers around 6- 8 km. The road is flat and concrete, with some shade from the trees. Because it is so closely tied to nature, the scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, offering a few wildlife surprises along the way.
Flowers and Wild Boars
When hiking during winter, you’ll see these Hong Kong Gordonia flowers in bloom. Aside from flowers, hikers might occasionally encounter wild boars too; remember not to panic and keep your distance. Ready to hit the trail? Getting to the starting point is incredibly straightforward via public transit.
What to Pack
Since this trail is mostly paved, you won’t need heavy-duty mountaineering boots. A comfortable pair of trail runners and a lightweight daypack are perfect.
- Daypacks: A simple 10L or 20L Light backpack.
- Hiking Shoes/Trail runners: Since it is mostly concrete, casual trail runners or comfortable walking shoes are perfect.
- Reusable Water bottles: Essential for any HK hike to stay hydrated.
How to Get to the Starting Point
Take the Island Line MTR and get off at Quarry Bay Station, Exit A.
Turn right after you exit from Quarry Bay MTR station, then walk straight for about 10 minutes. You’ll see a sign “Mount Parker Road Green Trail” under the footbridge. The starting point is near the Quarry Bay Municipal Services Building. The hike begins with an upward concrete road, which is not too steep and is suitable for beginners. Many nearby residents take this route for a morning walk.
At the start of the trail, there is a map showing the trail in red. There are a lot of barbecue sites and benches for hikers to take short breaks if needed. However, take note that there are only three toilets. Once you’ve passed the facilities and started up the initial incline, it won’t be long before you spot the first major historical landmark on your left.
Key Highlights along the trail
Woodside Biodiversity Education Centre
The first point of interest is the Woodside Biodiversity Education Centre, also known as the Red House. The historical building was built in the 1920s as the staff quarters of Taikoo Sugar Refinery. The building is now owned by the Agriculture, Fisheries, and Conservation Department to introduce Hong Kong’s natural resources and promote nature education. To learn more about the education center, visit their official website here. After leaving the education center, continue making your way up the main concrete road. Keep an eye on your left for a detour option.
Quarry Bay Tree Walk
As you continue up the road, you will find the “Quarry Bay Tree Walk” sign on the left side. This is not the path to Tai Tam Reservoir, but if you are interested in seeing the stoves that were built during WWII in preparation for the Japanese invasion, you can check this out. If you choose to stick to the main road instead, the next stretch of the path becomes a quiet, steady uphill walk.
The Quarry Bay Management Center Intersection
This section of the path does not offer much of a view. It is mostly surrounded by trees and barbecue sites. Just keep walking uphill and you will see the Tai Tam Country Park Quarry Bay Management Center sign.
The left side of the road leads to Hong Pak Country Trail, where you can find the dinosaur monolith – a rock that resembles a dinosaur head.
We took the path to the right, going to Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir. Follow this winding path uphill until you arrive at the main resting hub.
Quarry Pass Pavilion
Quarry Pass Pavilion is an intersection of three different paths – Quarry Bay, Mount Butler, and Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir. The signs show the distance and time needed to reach the end of each trail.
The path towards Tai Tam Reservoir starts to descend once you leave the pavilion. The road is concrete and a little steep, with some shade from the trees. Once you pass the Tai Tam Upper Reservoir, turn left and continue on the Tai Tam Reservoir Road.
Tip: If you are wearing a cap, be careful when you are approaching the Tai Tam upper reservoir. My cap almost got blown away. The heavy winds are a sign that you’ve finally made it to the water. As you keep walking, the dense trees give way to stunning, open views of the engineering marvels ahead.
Tai Tam Reservoir Dam
I like to stop here for a moment to rest and admire the beautiful view.
Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir Masonry Bridge
At the end of the trail is the Tai Tam Country Park South entrance. Once you step through the park gates, you’ve officially completed the hike! Now, it’s time to head back to the city.
How To Leave (Transportation)
Since the south entrance of the park is tucked away from the MTR lines, your best options for heading back to the city are buses or taxis. Directly outside the park gates, you will find a bus stop. You can catch buses which will take you straight to Sai Wan Ho or over toward Stanley. Taxis also pass by this area frequently if you prefer a direct ride home.
Final Thoughts: Is it Worth it?
The Quarry Bay to Tai Tam Reservoir trail is the ultimate beginner-friendly escape. It successfully checks all the boxes: it’s easy on the knees, packed with colonial history, and rewards you with stunning water views at the finish line. If you are looking for a low-effort, high-reward weekend walk, this is it.
Explore More of Hong Kong’s Trails
Enjoyed this walk and want to plan your next weekend escape? Check out my full guide to Hong Kong Hiking for more trail maps, hidden gems, and beginner guides. If you’re already feeling confident and want to tackle a much steeper, more iconic challenge right away, test your legs on the famous Violet Hill & Twins Peaks trail next!
