Curvy Hill – MacLehose Trail Section 4 From Shui Long Wo to Ma On Shan Country Park

There is no official English name to this hill known locally as “Curvy Hill.”  It has acquired its name from the meandering path that leads downward from the top of neighboring mountains.  I saw photographs online and became very drawn to the scenery there.  On this early autumn day I took up the journey in search of Curvy Hill with a friend.

The itinerary is quite simple.  At Shui Long Wo in Sai Kung, embark upon the MacLehose Trail Section 4 toward the Shui Long Wo Campsite.  Be vigilant throughout the trail and watch the signs pointing to MacLehose Trail Section 4.  We did miss one and had to turn back to find the right way.  The signs are all clear, however, just make sure you do not get so deep in your conversations that you miss the signs.

The first part of the trail was a gentle but continuously upward incline on paved slopes.  We passed by a beautiful bamboo grove on the way:

Otherwise, the scenery on the first part of the trail is of standard mountain views.  I do warn readers that, once you find your way to the stony stairs, it is a continuous upward climb on both stairs and mountainous paths until you see the peak of Ma On Shan.  There are some nice views on the way.

Photos above: Views on the way, including the peak of Ma On Shan

From the beginning of the trail to the point of beautiful aerial views at Curvy Hill, it took 2-2.5 hours of a continuous climb.  Be prepared, the rigor does demand physical fitness.

The hard work was well-rewarded.  When we approached the meandering path on Curvy Hill, we could see the wide-open sceneries of Tai Po and Sai Kung.  I swear we could have touched the sky there.

From then on, follow the path to descend the mountain.  You will then come to this sign.

We headed toward the Hang On Estate direction.  This section of our hike is on Ma On Shan Country Trail, until we reach Ma On Shan Village.  From the village back to civilization, it took another half hour to 40 minutes, with no views whatsoever.  Therefore my suggestion is to haul a taxi back to Ma On Shan proper, if you do see one.

Reminders

We went on an early autumn day and the heat has already dropped a few degrees from the summer prime.  The early sections of the trail, where there are lots of upward climb, were full of shades.  The climb was rigorous, however, and so I kept drinking my water to rehydrate.  The section of Curvy Hill has no shades, but that is already at the point of descent.  I do think that 2 litres of water is necessary for this hike at the current weather.

Also, the trail is quite demanding, and it will be wise to bring snacks and a hiking pole with you.

How to Get There

Bus 299X goes from Shatin or Sai Kung to Shui Long Wo.  From Shatin, get off at the Shui Long Wo stop and keep going toward the Sai Kung direction.  You will arrive at the entrance to MacLehose Trail Section 4 in 5-8 minutes.  From Sai Kung, get off at the Shui Long Wo Stop and walk backwards to reach the entrance.