After a brief pause, it’s back to some weekend hiking and exploration of the Lantau countryside. This time, revisiting the Lo Fu Tau (老虎頭, literally “Tiger’s Head”) Country Trail on the northeastern part of the island.
The last time I hiked this trail was two years ago in inclement weather with near zero visibility. Rain and high winds made for a rather disappointing trek on what is supposed to be a scenic trail. This time around was much improved.
Starting in Mui Wo town, we follow the Olympic Trail up the hill towards A Po Long (亞婆塱) and the Lo Fu Tau trailhead. The Olympic Trail (also known as the Tung Mui Ancient Path) is a cement footpath that connects Mui Wo in the east with Tung Chung in the north. In contrast, the country trail is comprised of dirt paths and stone steps, and makes for much better hiking.
Judging by the number of hikers we encountered, the Tiger’s Head trail is a popular route. Gently rolling hills and curious rock formations are some of the highlights of the hike, and you will also pass by a portion of the Discovery Bay Golf Club . Although it was overcast and at times threatened to rain, the sweeping views on the hike did not disappoint. There is practically no shade on the trail, so this could be a scorcher in the summer heat, though.
The country trail officially ends at the peak of Tiger’s Head (465m) with a grand view of Discovery Bay below. Here we start a dramatic descent down a steep dirt path to complete the 10km hike and enjoy a well deserved cold beer at DB Plaza.
Starting the hike at Mui Wo town.
Passing through Pak Ngan Heung (亞婆塱) village on the way to the Olympic Trail.
Leaving through the village entrance gate.
View of Mui Wo and Silvermine Bay below.
The Lo Fu Tau trailhead at A Po Long.
Somebody’s souvenir on the trail…
Greens at the Discovery Bay Golf Club.
Approaching a collection of scattered boulders on the trail.
The “Divine Peach” rock.
Cannon Rock. Or as some prefer, Devil’s Tongue.
Any suggestions for naming this one?
Looking back at the trail and surrounding hills. Lin Fa Shan mountain in the back.
Many sections seem to have been scorched by recent brush fires.
Hopefully summer will turn these hills green again!
Just a few more meters to the top. There was a trailrunning event held at Lo Fu Tau this weekend.
The summit at Tiger’s Head.
Sweeping views of Discovery Bay.
Nowhere to go but down from here.
A look back at Lo Fu Tau.
————————————————————————————-
Peter Lam Photography 