The Delight of the Hok Tau Country Trail
The Hok Tau Country Trail is delightful. There are two distinct sections of the trail, the latter part of which takes hikers through the villages and farms of Hok Tau. It is an easy trail of about 1.5 hours with some climbing, at a level just right for recreational hikers like me.
I went on a sunny day and the trail starts with generous shades. It begins with some steps up, for about ten minutes or so. Then it becomes an easy stroll, and one arrives at the viewing point soon. It shows a panoramic view of northern Hong Kong, with Tsung Shan, Ta Kwu Ling, Wo Keng Shan, Wu Tung Shan, Robin’s Nest, and Tan Chuk Hang on the horizon.
From afar one is able to view the skyline of Shenzhen, that is behind the beauty of Hong Kong’s rugged rural landscape. The skyline of Shenzhen has significant semblance with that of Hong Kong at the Victoria Harbor.
From the viewing point one would begin a descent into the valley. On the way are pleasing aerial views of the villages of Hok Tau. Despite the Hok Tau Reservoir being in the vicinity, there is no view of water except for a very small stream that runs through the village at the latter part of the trail.
Once having descended, one arrives at the country park sign, where you will see two ways. One seemingly leads to a motor way and the other is a walk into the village. From this point on, the Hok Tau Country Trail will take one through the many farms and village homes in this area. Therefore go onto the way on your immediate left (as you face the sign) and walk on the pedestrian way.
The farms in this area show significant human effort and maintenance. I could identify jackfruit, corn, pumpkin, papaya and bananas on the way. I also ran into some serious insect watchers. They were observing dragonfly mating on the streams. I came across at least two groups. Learned guides gave explanations to members that brought very serious photography gear.
The walk through the village was taking a while and I asked the wildlife tour guide whether I was on the right way. They confirmed that I was still on the Hok Tau Country Trail, and so I marched on. Soon I arrived at the exit point on Hok Tau Road. About 100 yards later I found my car at the parking lot.
How to get there:
I went by private car and parked at the Hok Tau Parking Lot on Hok Tau Road. For public transport, take green top minibus 52B at Fanling Station and get off at Hok Tau Wai, which is the final stop.
Reminders:
Bring a hat with you because the walk through the village has no shade at all. The walk through the village takes 20 to 30 minutes.
