Pyramid Hill (大金鐘) is a prominent feature of Ma On Shan County Park. Located in the eastern New Territories, it is a conical mountain with a 536 meter summit. A relatively easy climb is rewarded with sweeping views of Sai Kung peninsula below.
We approach the hill from its southern face via the Ngong Ping plateau, reached after a short hike on the Ma On Shan Country Trail. Here you’ll find an official park campground (which, unfortunately, is dotted with cow patties from the local feral cattle) as well as a launching area for paragliders.
On this breezy day the conditions seemed ideal for taking flight – there were plenty of gliders in the air, and it was amazing how far (and high!) these brave people could fly, riding the warm air currents. I’ve noticed them before at a distance from Sai Kung town, but to watch them launch and land up close was really impressive. I told myself “Maybe one day!”

View of Pyramid Hill from the Ngong Ping plateau (not to be confused with Ngong Ping on Lantau Island).
Returning to the task at hand, we begin the climb up Pyramid Hill. Some sections were quite steep, requiring the use of our hands to navigate the rocky trail. There was also a bit of downhill traffic as other hikers were descending the mountain. Once at the peak, there’s a great view of the plateau and Sai Kung town below.
We descend via the northern ridge where the trail joins Maclehose Section 4, leading us towards Ma On Shan mountain. A competitive event was being held, so a seemingly endless stream of runners were on the trail. The weather was also beginning to shift with heavy clouds moving in.
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