Tai Fung Au

Hidden between Quarry Bay and the heights of Mount Butler lies Tai Fung Au, also known as Quarry Gap. It’s a place where the city’s relentless energy pauses, giving way to the quiet strength of the mountain. Tai Fung Au itself is a saddle, a dip in the ridge between two peaks. Imagine arriving at Tai Fung Au after a leisurely stroll up Mount Parker Road from Quarry Bay. This paved road, while a good workout, offers glimpses of the bustling Tai Koo area below. The real adventure at Tai Fung Au begins with Jacob’s Ladder, a seemingly endless climb up stone steps. This challenging ascent is part of Section 2 of the Wilson Trail, leading hikers to the summit of Mount Butler. Tai Fung Au acts as the gateway to this climb, a transition point between the city and the tranquility of the peak. From Tai Fung Au, the air grows cooler. The sounds of the city fade, replaced by birdsong and rustling leaves. Here, amidst the rugged beauty, it’s easy to forget the urban sprawl just a short distance away. Tai Fung Au marks not just a change in elevation, but a change in pace, a breath of fresh air before the upward journey begins. After conquering the stone steps and enjoying the views from Mount Butler, hikers can descend gradually across Siu Ma Shan, eventually reaching Sir Cecil’s Ride and the Wong Nai Chung Tree Walk. This gentle descent, a welcome contrast to Jacob’s Ladder, brings hikers back towards the city, passing through verdant trails and quiet residential areas. So, as you stand at Tai Fung Au, remember it’s more than just a gap in the mountain. It’s a pause, a transition, and the start of a rewarding climb to greater heights.