Tate’s Ridge

Did you ever hear of a mountain named after a surveyor? High above us, Tate’s Ridge dominates the skyline. Tate’s Ridge, also known as Tai Lo Shan, meaning “Big Brother Mountain,” isn’t just a pretty face. This imposing ridge, part of the Kowloon Ridge within Ma On Shan Country Park, reaches a height of 583 meters. Tate’s Ridge began appearing on colonial maps as early as the 1860s. Yet, it remained nameless for decades, finally earning its English moniker around the turn of the 20th century. The name likely honors George Passman Tate. He was an Assistant Superintendent of the Indian Survey Department, responsible for mapping Hong Kong and the New Territories around 1899 and 1900. Now, a trail leads adventurers to its summit. Imagine standing atop Tate’s Ridge, gazing out at the sprawling cityscape below. In the distance, you might catch a glimpse of the Tate’s Cairn Tunnel, a modern marvel completed in 1991. This HK$2 billion project burrows beneath the ridge, connecting different parts of Hong Kong. The tunnel is a testament to human ingenuity. It represents the juxtaposition of modern infrastructure against the ancient, natural beauty of Tate’s Ridge. As you descend from the summit, imagine encountering hikers traversing Stage 4 to 5 of the MacLehose Trail, which winds its way beneath the ridge. Tate’s Ridge isn’t just a peak; it’s a living landmark. It’s a place where history, nature, and human ambition intertwine, creating a truly unique destination.