“West lies the key to adventure,” someone once said. West Buffalo Hill takes its name from its location. It lies to the west of Buffalo Hill. Buffalo Hill boasts a rocky peak. It resembles a buffalo’s head.
West Buffalo Hill is nestled in Ma On Shan Country Park. The two connected peaks are often tackled together. They are a reasonably short distance from each other. They are nearly identical in height. Both clock in at just over 600 metres.
The starting point of the West Buffalo Hill hike is near Siu Lek Yuen. Siu Lek Yuen is a sprawling residential area in Sha Tin. West Buffalo Hill is accessible. Yet, it packs a scenic punch. Its main draws are the silvergrass fields. You will also see uniquely shaped boulders and crags. The famous rock window is a must-see.
Are you ready for a steep, leg-burning haul? The payoff is worth it. Scenic highlights range from rocky outcrops to silvergrass fields.
The hike to West Buffalo Hill is about 3.9 kilometres long. It takes close to two hours to reach the top. Reserve around four hours for the round trip. Take your time to absorb the beautiful sights. Unless you’re a seasoned hiker you might need frequent breaks. This hike is not for the faint of heart. Prepare for endless steps. Watch out for slippery sections. Wear hiking shoes with good traction. Grab a sturdy trekking stick. They will help you along the way.
To start the West Buffalo Hill hike, get to Wong Nai Tau Bus Terminus. It’s in a suburban village on the eastern side of Sha Tin. There are plenty of buses to bring you here. These include 82K, 83K, 83X, and 86. Several minibuses also go there such as 806A, 65K, and 65A. Check Google Maps for the quickest route. A popular option is to start from Sha Tin Central Bus Terminus. It is just minutes from the MTR station.
The initial section is a gentle ascent. The path is well-paved with concrete. Stones, lush shrubbery and trees flank either side. After 10 minutes, you will see a map board. A sign points to Shek Nga Pui. This marks the beginning of inclines. The winding path is mixed. You will see dirt and rocky steps. There are narrow spots along steep sides. These require your full attention.
Eventually, you’ll find a junction. Turn left on an uphill side trail. It goes straight to West Buffalo Hill. The path is marked by a ceramic brick and a ribbon. The path is inconspicuous. So, keep your eyes peeled. If you miss it, take the long way. It passes through Shek Nga Pui.
The trail traverses dense woodland up to here. Shade is guaranteed. That won’t last long. A little before the halfway point, you break free. Continue up under the open sky. There is still plenty of foliage around. The scenery starts to ramp up in the second half. Soon after the trees, you’ll see your first lookout point. It is on a giant, bladed rock. Pause to rest. Recharge and snap some photos. The landmasses undulate endlessly.
Navigating the remainder of the trail is easy. The peak of West Buffalo Hill will be in full view. Hiking it will feel the opposite. The inclines get steeper. The terrains get sandier. Mind your steps. Watch out for loose ground. It may crumble under your feet.
If you visit during autumn or winter, you will see silvergrass meadows. These fields of swaying grasses are tall. They have an ethereal presence. They will make you forget the pain in your legs. Frolic to your heart’s delight. You will feel as though you have entered a dreamscape.
One attraction is appreciated year-round. It is the magnificent collection of geological wonders. Before you hit the summit, there is a narrow path. It descends to rocky outcrops. Take a detour here. Take a photo at the jutting rock window. Exercise caution. This nook a bit difficult to get to. Hold on to the rope on the side.
After exploring the rocks, return to the main path. Power through one last knoll to reach the top. You will know you have conquered West Buffalo Hill. You will see the triangulation pillar. You will probably see a hiker posing for a photo on top of it. The views here are spectacular. They offer panoramas of Sha Tin and Sai Kung. On a clear day, see Clear Water Bay Peninsula.
Ambitious hikers continue to Buffalo Hill. They make a loop back to Wong Nai Tau. They go via Shek Nga Shan. Or, they cut through Ma On Shan Country Park. They trek towards Pak Shan Wan in Sai Kung. Celebrate with a seafood feast. If your legs feel like lead, head back to civilization.
The most straightforward way back is the same route. The descent can be tough on the joints. It can be precarious. The paths are steep and sandy. Have your hiking stick handy. It will aid your balance. Once back at Wong Nai Tau, catch bus 83X back to Sha Tin Central. Or, take one of the minibuses to Kowloon.
West Buffalo Hill is calling. Are you ready to answer?