Hiking Dos and Don’ts

Pack snacks and plenty of water, no matter the time of year
Bring one of the excellent Countryside Series maps – available from bookshops or the North Point Government Offices
Bring a phone, but bear in mind not all areas have coverage
Consider downloading the Enjoy Hiking mobile app (created by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Dept) and the Hiking Trail HK app
Hiking with a companion is safest; if you do hike alone, tell someone exactly where you’re going and don’t forget to tell them when you finished
Take a small torch in case you’re out after dark
Be prepared to bring your litter home with you. Most trails do not have litter bins
Don’t damage or pick plants, and don’t approach wild animals
If a trail-running race is taking place, stand aside and let runners past
October to March are best months for hiking, but the air quality is actually better during the summer. Short hikes can be attempted in the summer as long as you bring a lot of water and avoid the hottest part of the day (noon to 3pm)

Find more hiking information at hiking.gov.hk and discoverhongkong.com

Hero image: R.nagy / Shutterstock