The Twin Peaks Hike — Conquering Hong Kong’s Legendary Stairway to the Sky

Few trails in Hong Kong test your endurance like The Twin Peaks Hike. Rising over Violet Hill and plunging down into Tai Tam Country Park, this 5.7-kilometre route rewards every step with sweeping views of Stanley Peninsula and the South China Sea. It’s often called one of Hong Kong’s toughest hikes—and rightly so. The seemingly endless staircases (some stretches boast more than 400 steps) earn the trail its reputation as a true leg burner.

Most hikers start from the Stanley Gap Road bus stop, where Wilson Trail Section 1 begins, or from Wong Nai Chung Reservoir Park at the other end. Either direction promises a workout. The total ascent reaches about 715 metres, and although the climb is relentless, the path is well-marked and safe throughout.

Expect about two hours of hiking time—or three if you stop to soak in the scenery. From the summits of Violet Hill and The Twins, gaze down at turquoise coves and emerald ridges that make Hong Kong feel miles away from its urban core.

This isn’t a trail for the faint-hearted, but that’s precisely what makes it so rewarding. Bring plenty of water, lace up sturdy shoes, and pace yourself. At the end of it all, when you’ve conquered the city’s most infamous stairs, you’ll understand why locals call this hike a rite of passage.

– Take bus number 6, 41A, 76, 63, or 66 to Wong Nai Chung Reservoir Park. – Alight at the Sinopec gas station. – Walk up the short flight of steps leading to Tai Tam Reservoir Road. – This is where the Twin Peaks Hike begins.