Ribbons mark a narrow trail. This trail leads to a stunning vista. Welcome to Shek Nga Tau.
Shek Nga Tau is a small hill. It sits near Sai Kung’s famous grass field Sham Chung. Though not very tall at 180m Shek Nga Tau offers a rewarding hike.
The Shek Nga Tau hike is not the easiest. The trail is narrow. Overgrown vegetation can make it a trek. However the ribbons guide you. They mark the path to the top.
From Shek Nga Tau you get a great view. Three Fathoms Cove stretches out before you. You can also see the mangrove forest. It goes towards Yung Shue O.
Remember to bring sunscreen. There are many exposed stretches. Good shoes are also essential. They will help with the terrain. Also bring plenty of water. One and a half to two liters should be enough. A towel is useful too. You will likely sweat on the way up Shek Nga Tau.
There are a few ways to shorten the Shek Nga Tau hike. You can start and end at Yung Shue O. Take a taxi to Yung Shue O. This cuts about 45 minutes of hiking.
Another option is the ferry to Sham Chung. Ferries go from Ma Liu Shui pier near University Station. From Sham Chung it is a short walk to the trail.
If you start at Pak Sha O take the number 9 minibus from Sai Kung. It goes to Hoi Ha. Tell the driver you want to get off at Pak Sha O. There is a public restroom not far past the Youth Hostel. This is the last one you will see for a while. The trail here is mostly flat and shaded.
The trail branches off to Lai Chi Chong. If you have time see the geological formations. From the junction the trail goes downhill. It heads towards She Shek Au.
She Shek Au means Snake Rock Junction. Some rocks look like snakes run on them. These are quartz veins in igneous rocks. From here you can continue to Sham Chung.
Sham Chung is very picturesque. It feels like entering a wonderland. The trail loops by the grass field. A local restaurant is available if it is open.
I underestimated Shek Nga Tau. The hike took about 23 minutes. The terrain is steeper than expected.
At the top is a black and white pillar. This marks the highest point. A huge rock outcrop probably gave Shek Nga Tau its name. It’s easy to climb for a photo.
Hiking back down you pass Sham Chung Pier. Then you go towards Yung Shue O. Yung Shue O is known for its mangrove forest. It links to Cheung Sheung Country Trail if you want a longer hike.
From Yung Shue O you can call a taxi. You can also walk 45 minutes to Shui Long Wo. From Shui Long Wo buses go to Sai Kung Town Center. They also go to Ma On Shan or Shatin.
Remember to take care and enjoy the views from Shek Nga Tau.