Sharp Peak
Sai Kung
Description
Sharp Peak is Sai Kung’s most challenging hike. Suitable only for experienced hikers, the climb is so strenuous that the AFCD recommends against hiking the trail altogether. However, it continues to attract flocks of experienced hikers thanks to the splendid views of Tai Long Wan and its four beaches. It’s not the altitude that poses the problem – Sharp Peak is 200 metres shorter than Ma On Shan – but rather the steepness of the climb. Climbing down will also be just as challenging as the climb up so wear good hiking shoes and take a trekking pole for support.
Route
Join MacLehose Trail section 2 next to the public toilets at Pak Tam Au then head east towards Tai Long Wan. Ahead, mighty Sharp Peak slowly reveals itself from behind the trees. Carry on for just over 1km and you’ll arrive at the first fork in the road. Turn right and continue down the MacLehose Trail heading towards Ham Tim.
The trail winds through Chek Keng village until the trail heads back under the cover of trees and slopes up to Tai Long Au. Once you reach the pavilion, take the set of stairs in front of the benches, up to Sharp Peak Path. This is the start of the ascent. Pass the AFCD’s red warning sign (if you are experienced enough) which is a final warning to hikers of the impending difficult trail, and continue along the hillside.
After a quick descent to Nam She Au, the climb up Sharp Peak begins. Once you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with one of the most spectacular views in all of Hong Kong. At this altitude you can see all four of Tai Long Wan’s beaches, Tap Mun and Port Island.
To descend, continue past the summit marker and down along Sharp Peak’s east side. As the ground starts to level out, keep to the right taking the path which eventually leads back onto the flat plains you crossed on the way up.
Useful info
Distance: 15.4 km
Duration: 7 hours
How to get there: From Sai Kung Pier, take minibus 7 or bus 94 to Pak Tam Au. Alternatively, a taxi from Sai Kung will take around 20 minutes.