Beneath the canopy of leaves, have you ever wondered about the tales this trail holds? Today we’re exploring the Tai Lam Forest Track also known as Tai Tong Section. It offers a blend of natural beauty and accessible trails. Tai Lam Forest Track is located within Tai Lam Country Park. This is Hong Kong’s second largest country park. It spans a vast 5412 hectares.
Established in 1979, Tai Lam Country Park has benefited from extensive reforestation. Once barren it is now a lush landscape. This transformation is thanks to dedicated afforestation efforts. The Tai Lam Forest Track offers an easy hike. It is suitable for various fitness levels. The track forms part of the MacLehose Trail sections 9 and 10.
Along Tai Lam Forest Track, you will find yourself in the heart of Sweet Gum Woods. Sweet gum trees line the road. In colder months their leaves transform. They change from green to bright yellows and reds. This creates a stunning backdrop. The main woods stretch for about 400 meters. You can find smaller clusters further along the road.
Tai Lam Forest Track offers scenic views of Tai Lam Chung Reservoir. The reservoir is also known as Thousand Island Lake. This name comes from the many islands dotting its surface. These islands were once hilltops. They were part of open valleys before the reservoir’s creation.
The Tai Lam Chung Reservoir was built between 1952 and 1957. It was the first project of its kind after World War II. The Reservoir Islands Viewpoint offers the best views. From here you can see the shimmering surface and surrounding green hills. Waterfalls may appear after rainfall.
Tai Lam Forest Track is easily accessible. It is near Tuen Mun and Sham Tseng. This makes it a popular destination for hikers and picnickers. There are barbecue areas available. These are located in Tai Tong Shan Road and Shek Kong.
The park’s diverse flora includes Taiwan Acacia and Brisbane Box. You can also find Chinese Red Pine and Swamp Mahogany. Native trees like Oak, Machilus and Castanopsis are also present. These forests provide habitats for various animals. Keep an eye out for birds. If you are lucky you might see a Chinese Pangolin. Or perhaps even a Leopard Cat.
Along Tai Lam Forest Track you might spot Garnot’s house geckos. Reeve’s Smooth skinks also live here. They slink among the rocks. They move in and out of the shadows. Tai Lam Forest Track is more than just a trail. It is an immersive experience. It combines history natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
The MacLehose Trail is 100 kilometers long. Tai Lam Forest Track makes up sections 9 and 10. Section 9 is about 6.3km long. It is a relatively easy hike along a service road. Section 10 is the longest section. It spans about 15km. It is considered one of the easiest sections.
Keep an eye out for the Tai Lam Chung Reservoir Memorial Stone. You will also pass through Tai Tong Sweet Gum Woods. A detour to the Thousand Island Viewing Point is highly recommended. As you continue you will reach a catchwater near Pak Shek Hang. This section is mostly flat. It leads towards Tuen Mun.
Remember to bring water and snacks for your hike along Tai Lam Forest Track. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential. Trekking poles can also be useful. Enjoy the journey. Appreciate the scenery. Remember the stories this landscape holds.