Doesn’t the name Grand Canyon conjure images of Arizona? Not so fast. Here in Hong Kong, we have our own version. Welcome to the \u826f\u7530\u5773\u5927\u5cfd\u8c37 Grand Canyon. It’s also known as the Tuen Mun Grand Canyon.
This spot is a popular hiking destination. The trail starts in Tuen Mun Leung King Estate. It is not too difficult. Today we will explore the Hong Kong version of the Tuen Mun Grand Canyon.
Before you get too excited note that this spot has seen accidents. When taking pictures be careful. Pay attention to every detail. Also, starting in March 2024 there may be construction. This construction affects the section from Leung Tin Au to the White Mud area. It’s best not to go in there until further notice.
To get here take light rail 505, 507, 615, or 615P. Get off at Leung King Station. You can also take the Tuen Ma line to Siu Hong Station. Then take the light rail. Several buses also run here. These include the 58M, 58X, 258D, 260X, and 960. Get off at Leung King Estate Bus Terminus or Sun Tuen Mun Centre.
The hike is about 5.5 kilometers. It takes around 3 to 3.5 hours including breaks. Leung King Shopping Centre is a good place to stock up. There are restrooms there too.
To get to the Grand Canyon from Leung King you can walk. Head towards the Hong Kong Red Cross Tuen Mun John Fleming Centre. Or go to the convenience store and turn right. Then walk for about five minutes towards Leung Choi House. You will see a solar street lamp. Turn onto the 40-degree slope. This leads to the Hong Kong version of the Tuen Mun Grand Canyon. The slope takes about half an hour to climb. It is similar to the natural trail of Por Kai Shan. It can be tiring for those who do not exercise much.
After passing a sign that says “No Entry. Dangerous Area” the trees thin out. As you pass Leung Tin Au the trees disappear. You definitely need water sun protection and hiking shoes. At the halfway point on Leung Tin Au turn onto the path. After two large turns a paved road turns into a gravel road. The Tuen Mun Grand Canyon will come into view.
There is no official route. But if you pay attention you can find a good path. Some of the gullies are filled with rocks. The slope has been cut into small steps.
The Tuen Mun Grand Canyon is 20 meters deep. It is a popular spot for photos. The V-shaped valley is due to weathering of the granite. The rocks contain iron which oxidizes and turns brown or red. You can also find quartz on the path. Besides the views there are also seasonal silvergrass.
The Tuen Mun Grand Canyon is not always open. It is a military area. Generally, you can only enter on Sundays or public holidays. The training times at the青山 Rifle Range are Monday to Saturday 8 AM to 9 PM. Avoid entering if you see a red flag. Otherwise, you might be prosecuted.
The Security Bureau says that the青山 Rifle Range is a military area. Unauthorized entry is prohibited. Hikers should take note.
The difficulty of the hike depends on the weather. On dry days the slopes and gravel are manageable. Overall it is not too hard. It is suitable for beginner to intermediate hikers. With proper gear even a ten-year-old can reach the Tuen Mun Back Garden.
However stay away from the cliffs. Falling can cause serious injury. From the Hong Kong Grand Canyon, you can return to Leung King Station. If you have time you can walk along the paved road to the Lower White Mud area. There you can watch the sunset.
The High Island Reservoir East Dam is another impressive geological feature. This offers more stunning natural beauty. The Tuen Mun Grand Canyon is not Fu Tei Au Shan. The more accurate name for the place we are visiting is Tuen Mun Leung Tin Au Grand Canyon.
Many celebrities have hiked here. This trail is suitable for dog walking and family outings. If you want to watch the sunset bring a flashlight. A headlamp is better than holding your phone.