Monday, 22 December 2014

Wednesday, 17 December 2014

2014-12-19 Tsuen Kam Au to Tai Tong

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


Dear Fridayhikers,

After consultation with Leo, it has been decided that this Friday, we will take the route of Tsuen Kam Au to Tai Tong.  The leaves have turned red and if they have not been blown away by strong winds and rain, we should be able to see them.  The weather forecast is for cloudy cold weather with possible showers. 
  
Most of us have been here before.  The route (12km) is relatively flat and paved most of the way.  Except for an initial short walk up, it is downhill most of the way until Kat Hing Bridge where there will be a 100m climb.  It will take us about 4 hours from the starting point to where we will be able to take a bus/minibus/taxi to Yuen Long.

Meeting time:  9:10 am  (Bus 51 arrives a little after 9:20 am)
Meeting place:  Exit A  Tsuen Wan MTR Station

Please bring enough water, snacks, rain gear, sun gear, etc.   It is estimated that we won't have lunch until after 2 pm.  


Belinda

Wednesday, 10 December 2014

2014-12-12 Long Ke

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


Dear Fridayhikers,

This will be a cool Friday with some scattered showers early in the morning.  It should be suitable weather for a good hike.  As DK will not be joining us this week, you may want to take advantage of the cool weather and take a longer hike to Long Ke from Sai Wan Ting.  I would suggest that if it is too wet, you can opt for Chek Keng instead.

Meeting time:  9 am  (the bus to Sai Wan Ting should depart at around 9:15)

Meeting place:  outside McDonalds in Sai Kung


Please bring with you rain gear, sun gear, plenty of water and snacks or a light lunch.  The distance should be about 9 km and usually take 4 to 4.5 hours.  On reaching the dam, you will need to call a taxi to take you back to Sai Kung.

Needless to say, the hike will be cancelled in case of heavy rain, thunderstorm and if the number of hikers is less than 3.  I cannot join  you this week.  See you next week and enjoy your hike.


Please check the post Thursday night to see who will be coming.




Belinda

Tuesday, 2 December 2014

2014-12-05 Tsuen Kam Au - Kap Lung - Ho Pui

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


Hi there !  The weather forecast is for a cold Friday with a chance of a bit of rain in the early morning.  Because the morning will be cold, I've picked somewhere close to town so we don't have to start out so early  The route is about 9 km and we will need 3.5 to 4 hours depending on how fast we go.  At Ho Pui Village, we can take minibus 71 to Yuen Long.  This minibus runs every quarter of an hour and passes through Kam Sheung Road West Rail Line for anyone in a hurry to get back to town.

You may go to the following website to have a look at the route:  http://www.oasistrek.com/ho_pui.phpwww.oasistrek.com/ho_pui


Meeting time:  9.10 am
Meeting place:  Tsuen Wan MTR Station Exit B

We will take bus 51 to the starting point at Tsuen Kam Au.  The bus departs from Tsuen Wan West Rail Station at 9:20 am.  Tsuen Wan MTR station is the 2nd stop.  You can take the bus from the terminal if it suits you better (and it will be appreciated if you indicate in your reply).  As the bus runs every hour only, please make sure you catch this bus or you will need to take a taxi.


Bring water, snacks, sunshade, raingear and dress in warm layers.  Do bring some food as it will be past 2 o'clock by the time we have lunch.

Please note that if it remains wet, we may take the paved walk instead of walking down to Kap Lung as although this section is not steep, it is a hill path and may be muddy.


Belinda

Wednesday, 26 November 2014

2014-11-28 灣仔警察博物館 -- 寶馬山 -- 鰂魚涌地鐵站

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


Dear all,

Looks like we're going to have a rainy Friday.  For safety sake, a cemented hiking route is preferred.  The walk will take about 2.5 - 3.5 hours.

Meeting Time: 9:15 am
Meeting Place: Wanchai Gap Park, Stubbs Road


To get to Wanchai Gap Park, please take First Bus #15 at Admiralty (heading for the Peak) and get off at the Police Museum.  You may walk eastbound via Black's Link to Jardine's Lookout and then Braemar Hill.  You may then decide whether to walk further on to Quarry Bay depending on the weather.  Please bring rain gear, mosquito repellent and plenty of water.

As always, if the thunderstorm, amber, red or black rain signal is on at 7:30 am on Friday, or if there're less than 4 participants, this hike will automatically be cancelled.

I'm not joining the hike.  Please click into this blog to identify your companions nearer the time.  Thanks.

Regards,
Louisa

Monday, 17 November 2014

2014-11-21 鹿頸 -- 上、下七木橋 -- 大尾督

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


Dear all,

This Friday should be dry enough for a shady route from Luk Keng to Tai Mei Duk.  It's 10 km long and will take about 4 hours to complete.

Meeting Time: 9:00 am
Meeting Place: Green Minibus #56K (destination
鹿頸
) outside Fanling MTR Station

We may reach Tai Mei Duk at around 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm for lunch, and then return to Tai Po by either bus or minibus.
Please bring sun gear, light snacks and plenty of water.

Regards,
Louisa

Monday, 10 November 2014

2014-11-14 龍門郊遊徑 (城門水塘至川龍)

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


Dear all,

This Friday is going to be cloudy with a few rain patches.   We'll walk from Shing Mun Reservoir to Chuen Lung.  It is a 8.5-km walk in about 3.5 hours.  Our hike in the first 45 minutes is a continuous uphill climb on stairs, and then the trail will go on almost level ground. 

Meeting Time: 8:55 am

Meeting Point: Exit B, Tsuen Wan MTR Station

We'll leave the MTR station at 9:00 am sharp to catch the minibus #82 at 兆和街 departing at 9:10 am. It runs every 15 min. In case you miss it, please take the next one or call a taxi to Pineapple Dam 菠蘿壩, the starting point of our hike. Toilet facilities are available there.

The quickest way to get to the starting point of Lung Mun Country Trail is to take the stairs by the side of the tourist centre at Pineapple Dam, and then pass through the butterfly garden.

Please bring plenty of water, mosquito repellent and sun/rain gear.

Regards,
Louisa

P. S.  Should it rain on Friday morning, we may walk round the reservoir instead.

Tuesday, 4 November 2014

2014-11-07 西灣亭 > 鹹田灣 > 赤徑 > 北潭坳

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


Dear all,

It's our favourite route in Sai Kung for this Friday's hike -- Chek Keng.   The walk, including rests, usually takes 4 hours.

Meeting Time: 0900 (Village bus 29R departs at 0915)
Meeting Place: Outside the MacDonald's at Sai Kung town centre


There may be other hikers waiting for the same bus at the bus stop. Please queue up to secure a seat (capacity: 28 passengers). The next bus leaves at 1130, and the taxi fare from Sai Kung town centre to Sai Wan Ting is app. $100.

Please bring sufficient water, light snacks, sun/rain gear and a hiking stick.   Sorry that I won't be joining you.  Hope you'll have a wonderful time.

Regards,
Louisa

Tuesday, 28 October 2014

2014-10-31 大灘郊遊徑

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


Dear all,

This Friday's going to be dry and sunny.  It'd be fine for us to visit Sai Kung again.
 
Meeting Time: 8:45 am (Minibus leaves at 8:55 am)
Meeting Place: No. 7 Green Minibus Terminal (for Hoi Ha), Sai Kung (opposite KMB bus terminal)

This is a popular minibus route.  Please arrive early and queue up to secure a seat. 

The walk from 猴塘溪 to 海下 will take 3.5 hours.  We may decide whether to take an additional hour to go round Wan Chai Peninsula when we reach 攔路坳.  Please bring sun gear, mosquito repellent and sufficient water.

I've got a lunch appointment on Friday and won't be hiking with you.  Please check who'll be your company and enjoy.


Regards,
Louisa

Tuesday, 21 October 2014

2014-10-24 Violet Hill Path

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


Dear all,

We'll walk from Wong Nai Chung Reservoir to Tai Tam Road near Stanley via Violet Hill Path this Friday.  The route is 7 km long and goes mainly downhill.  The expected journey time is 3 hours.

Meeting Time: 9:15 am

Meeting Place: Wong Nai Chung Reservoir

Public transport to Wong Nai Chung Reservoir:
Bus No. 6 and 66 from Admiralty or the Exchange Square, Central to Stanley
Bus No. 41A from North Point Ferry Pier to Wah Fu
Bus No. 63 from North Point Ferry Pier to Stanley


Please get off the bus at the Shell Gas Station (after the Hong Kong Tennis Centre and the Hong Kong Cricket Club) on Wong Nai Chung Gap Road. Then walk up the stairs by the flyover at the end of the gas station.

P. S. I'm not sure if there're any changes in the bus routes due to the demonstration in Admiralty.  An alternative is to get on the buses No. 6 and 66 at the bus stop opposite Wu Chung House on Queen's Road East in Wan Chai.

It may still be hot around noon time.  Please do UV protection and bring sufficient water.


Regards,

Louisa

Tuesday, 14 October 2014

2014-10-17 Tsak Yue Wu - Cheung Sheung - Hoi Ha Road (鲫魚湖 - 嶂上 - 海下路)

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


The weather forecast for this Friday is favourable for hiking, "24-28 deg. C.  Mainly fine with moderate to fresh east winds".  This route enables us to exercise our muscle.  There will be a gradual climb of about 300 m to Cheung Sheung before descending to Hoi Ha Road.  En-route we will pass through Lui Ta Shek 雷打石 and Wa Mei Shan 畫眉山, crossing part of the MacLehose Trail Section 3 (M55-M59) and Cheung Sheung Country Trail 嶂上郊遊徑 (C5201-C5205).  The whole trip covers a distance of about 8.5 km, and we should be able to complete it in 3 to 3.5 hours.


畫眉山腰稍事休息



雷打石搖搖欲墜

嶂上 - 紮營熱門地點


Meeting Time:  0850 hrs

Assembly Place:  Sai Kung bus terminal No. 94 (to Wong Shek)

(1.  The bus will depart at 09:00. We will alight at Tsak Yue Wu, our starting point, after passing the stop at Pak Tam Chung.
 2.  We can take either bus or minibus No. 7 to the starting point  Since previously some of our hikers were unable to get on the minibus due to limited capacity, we will take the bus this time.)

Please bring your sun and rain gears and enough drinking water.  In case the rainstorm signal, thunderstorm signal, typhoon signal No. 3 or above remain hoisted at 07:30 on Friday OR less than 4 persons signed up by 23:00 on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled.

Regards,
Anson

Wednesday, 8 October 2014

2014-10-10 Tu Di Wan - Dragon Back - Siu Sai Wan (土地灣 - 龍脊 - 小西灣)

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


The weather forecast for this Friday is favourable for hiking "Mainly fine and dry during the day with moderate east to NE winds".  This time we will do an easy hiking route [2 stars among the 5-star ranking] in the eastern part of HK Island (to avoid the congested traffic in Wanchai, Central and western part of the island).  

The chosen Dragon Back trail, although not so shady for some parts, is usually windy due to the location (on the mountain ridges) and fairly comfortable.  What is more, it is famous for its scenery (大潭灣、蒲台島、橫瀾島、東龍洲 and even 果洲群島).  The whole route is about 8.8 km with an ascent of 150 m and a descent of 300 m (fairly level for the major part 5-6 km), and we should be able to finish it within 3 to 3.5 hours.

大潭港/紅山半島

龍脊 (港島徑 H086 - H092) 

橫瀾島/果洲群島

Assembly Place: Shaukiwan Bus Terminal No. 9 (to Shek O)

Meeting Time:  0850
(Our experience tells that the bus normally departs at 9:00; 15-18 minutes duration)

As usual, we should be well equipped with sun and rain gears and sufficient water.  In case the rainstorm, thunderstorm signal or typhoon signal No. 3  or above remain hoisted at 07:30 on Friday OR less than 4 persons signed up by 23:00 on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled.

Regards,
Anson

Wednesday, 1 October 2014

2014-10-3 Sai Wan Ting - Luk Wu Country Trail - Tsak Yu Wu 西灣亭 - 鹿湖郊遊徑 - 鯽魚湖

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


The weather forecast for this Friday is satisfactory: "26-30 deg. C, mainly cloudy with moderate east to northeast winds, a few rain patches later".   The chosen route is relatively short (6.5 km), though not quite level.   In the 200 m ascent from Sai Wan Road to Luk Wu Plateau 鹿湖高原, we will pass through flights of stone steps as well as some bamboo-lined trails.  En-route there are exhilarating open vistas of Chek Keng Kau 赤徑口, Sai Wan 大浪西灣, Tap Mun 塔門 and the far-off hills including Sharp Peak 蚺蛇尖.   

Leaving the campsite on Luk Wu Plateau, the route takes a gradual descent of 300 m to Pak Tam Road 北潭路, where we can take a bus or a minibus back to Sai Kung town.  (If you have good physique and ready for challenge, we may even side-track (spending 30 minutes more) from Luk Wu Plateau to Tai Chum Koi 大枕蓋, which offers even a grander vision.  It will take us about 3 to 3.5 hours to cover the whole route. 



Far-off hills seen during the ascent


Grand vision on Tai Chum Koi 大枕蓋

Last part of Luk Wu Country Trail


Time of Assembly: 08:55

Meeting Place:  29 R Village Bus stop outside MacDonald 親民街 in Sai Kung (the bus will leave at 09:10, but there are only 28 seats)


Please bring along your sun and rain gears and enough drinking water.  In case thunderstorm or rainstorm signals, typhoon No. 3 or above remain hoisted at 07:30 OR less than 4 persons signed up before 23:00 on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled.


Regards,
Anson

Wednesday, 24 September 2014

2014-9-26 Shatin Pass - Wilson Trail Section 5 - Kowloon Reservoir 沙田坳 - 衛奕信徑第五段 - 九龍水塘

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


The weather forecast for this Friday turned out to be favourable, "26-30 degrees C, sunny periods, one or two rain patches at first with light to moderate east wind"  In view of the hot weather, I have chosen a trail, Wilson Trail Section 5, which is paved or stony and fairly level (except for the initial ascend from Tsz Wan Shan to Shatin Pass and the final descend to Kowloon Reservoir).  Enroute this trail offers a full view of Shatin, Tai Wai and the distant hills - Needle Hill 針山 and Grassy Hill 草山 on the north and South Kowloon on the south.  The whole route is around 8 km and we should reach our destination on Tai Po Road Shatin Ridge Section 大埔公路沙田嶺段 by the side of Kowloon Reservoir within 3 hours if we do not attempt the climb of Lion's Rock.


Initial ascend to Shatin Pass

Lion Rock (on the back)


Assembly Place:  Wong Tai Sin MTR Exit A

Meeting Time: 0900 

Transport:  We will proceed to Shatin Pass Road to take minibus No.18, which can take us to the bus terminal at Tsz Wan Shan Road 慈雲山慈愛苑三期旁巴士總站 where we can take a shady ascending path by the side of the bus terminal for access to 沙田

Please bring along your sun and rain gears and sufficient drinking water.  In case typhoon signal No. 3 or above, thunderstorm or rainstorm signal remains hoisted at 0730 on Friday OR less than 4 persons enrolled by 2300 on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled.

Regards,
Anson


















Wednesday, 17 September 2014

2014-9-19 Kap Lung Forest Trail - Lui Kung Tin - Kap Lung Ancient Trail (甲龍林徑 - 雷公田 - 甲龍古道)



The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.

With alternative easier route:  In case the weather is really too hot and we do not feel like going up the steep path back to 荃錦坳,we may simply proceed to Shek Kong 石崗 after the snack at Lui Kung Tin

Except for the great heat, the weather forecast for this Friday is promising "27-33 deg. C, mainly fine and very hot with light winds".  I have chosen a route which we have attempted more than two years ago.  The first part is a shady, relatively gentle downward path of about 4.5 km leading to Lui Kung Tin 雷公田, where we may have a taste of 薑汁撞奶 before the second part, which is a fairly steep path of about 2 km (a climb of elevation 400 m).  Including rest at Lui Kung Tin, we should be able to complete the journey in about 4 hours.

甲龍古道
甲龍林徑
薑汁撞奶
  
Assembly Place: Tsuen Wan MTR Exit A

Meeting Time:  08:50 hours

(Note: We will proceed to the MTR station platform top to catch bus No. 51, which will come by 09:00 hours)

Please bring along your sun and rain gears and sufficient drinking water.  In case the rainstorm signal, thunderstorm signal or typhoon signal No. 3 or above remain hoisted by 07:30 on Friday OR less than 4 persons signed up by 23:00 on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled.


Regards,
Anson

Wednesday, 10 September 2014

2014-9-12 Tai Po Kau NatureTrails - Tai Po town 大埔滘自然教育徑 - 大埔市

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


The weather keeps on changing from day to day during summer.   Up till the latest moment, the forecast weather for this Friday is "27-31 deg. C, mainly cloudy with a few showers and moderate east winds".  In view of the unsteady weather, I do not prefer to take a mountain trail; instead I have picked a familiar easy trail we have done before, which offers flexibility and does not have a great demand on physique.  

The trails inside the Tai Po Nature Reserve 大埔滘自然保護區 are roughly circular and of different lengths, offering choices from nature trails 自然教育徑 to forest walks 林徑 or a combination of both.  The paths are shady and mostly paved but do not offer much for scenery viewing.  The length of the hiking route inside the Reserve plus the final part to Tai Po town varies from 2.5 hrs to 4.5 hrs, depending on our choice.

Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve uphill path

Assembly Place: Sha Tin MTR Station (Exit A)

Meeting Time: 08:45

Transport: We will proceed to Pak Ting Hok Street 白鶴汀街 adjacent to New Town Plaza and take the minibus No. 28K, which can take us to Tsung Tsai Yuen at Tai Po Road 大埔公路松仔園, the starting point of our hike

Please bring along sun and rain gears and sufficient drinking water plus mosquito repellents ( for the part inside the wood).  In the event of rainstorm or thunderstorm signals, typhoon signal (No. 3 or above) remain hoisted at 07:30 on Friday OR less than 4 persons signed up by 23:00 on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled.

Regards,
Anson

Wednesday, 3 September 2014

2014-9-5 Shatin Pass - Wilson Trail Sec. 5 - Kowloon Reservoir (沙田坳 - 衛奕信徑第五段 - 九龍水塘)

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.

Hiking cancelled - thunderstorm warning signal

The weather forecast for this Friday is not not entirely favourable, "Mainly cloudy and a few showers with moderate east wind".  In view of the hot weather, I have chosen a trail, Wilson Trail Section 5, which is paved or stony and fairly level (except for the initial ascend from Tsz Wan Shan to Shatin Pass and the final descend to Kowloon Reservoir).  This trail offers a full view of Shatin, Tai Wai and the distant hills - Needle Hill 針山 and Grassy Hill 草山 enroute.  The whole route is less than 8 km and we should reach our destination on Tai Po Road Shatin Ridge Section 大埔公路沙田嶺段 by the side of Kowloon Reservoir within 3 hours.


Initial ascend to Shatin Pass

Wilson Trail Section 5

Assembly Place:  Wong Tai Sin MTR Exit A

Meeting Time: 0900 

Transport:  We will proceed to Shatin Pass Road to take minibus No.18, which can take us to the bus terminal at Tsz Wan Shan Road 慈雲山慈愛苑三期旁巴士總站 where we can take a shady ascending path by the side of the bus terminal for access to 沙田

Please bring along your sun and rain gears and sufficient drinking water.  In case typhoon signal No. 3 or above, thunderstorm or rainstorm signal remains hoisted at 0730 on Friday OR less than 4 persons enrolled by 2300 on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled.

Regards,
Anson

Wednesday, 27 August 2014

2014-8-29 Victoria Gap - Victoria Peak Garden - Pokfulam Reservoir - Chi Fu (爐峰峽 - 山頂公園 - 薄扶林水塘 - 置富)

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


When I planned the hike, the forecast weather was similar to last week, so I chose a paved trail.  Although the forecast for Friday changed today, "Mainly fine and hot 27-32 deg. C with moderate east to SE winds", I do not intend to change to another one due to hot weather.  The present route is shady and apart from the first part, it is mainly level or downward, hence it should be a piece of cake for us.  The whole journey covers about 7 km and we should finish it within two and a half hours and had our early lunch at Chi Fu Gardens. 


Victoria Peak in the distance


Pokfulam Reservoir

Assembly Place:  In front of the Peak Galleria 山頂廣場

Time:  09:30 a.m.

Transport: Bus (No. 15 Central via Admiralty & Wanchai)
           Minibus (No. 1, MTR Hong Kong Station) 


Please bring along sun and rain gears and enough drinking water.  In case typhoon signal No. 3 or above, rainstorm signal or thunderstorm signal remains hoisted at 07:30 a.m. on Friday OR less than four persons signed on the hike by 23:00 hours on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled.

Regards,
Anson

Wednesday, 20 August 2014

2014-8-22 Tsing Lung Tau - Tai Lam Nature Trail - Tsing Fai Tong - Sham Tseng (青龍頭 - 大欖自然教育徑 - 清快塘 - 深井)

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.

The weather forecast for this Friday is promising "Sunny periods and a few showers with moderate south to southwest wind", however similar to the last week, the forecast situation in the preceding two days are not favourable (with heavy showers at times today).  I have therefore chosen a route which is paved for the most parts.  The total distance to be covered is about 8 km, and we could complete the journey in 3 to three and a half hours, ending at 深井 (around 1:30) where we will take our goose lunch.

大欖自然教育徑旁的生態園


深井燒鹅



Meeting Place: Tsuen Wan MTR Exit B

Assembly Time: 09:00  (We will proceed to the Transport Interchange on Ground Level of the station to take minibus 96M, which can reach Tsing Lung Tau within half an hour)

Please bring sun and rain gears and sufficient water.  If typhoon signal No. 3 or above, rainstorm or thunderstorm signals remain hoisted at 07:30 on Friday OR less than 4 persons enroll by 23:00 on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled.

Regards,
Anson

Wednesday, 13 August 2014

2014-8-15 Round the Shing Mun Tour (with a detour to the war relics)

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


The weather/weather forecast for this week is not favourable for hiking activities.  Although the forecast for Friday appears promising ("Sunny periods.  A few showers in the morning with moderate southwest wind"),  the road condition on country trails is certainly bad due to the heavy downpours during the preceding two days.  

As such, I chose a familiar safe route - round the Shing Mum Reservoir.  In case the weather is really fine, we may do a detour towards the end of the hike to the war relics (fortification tunnels used by the former British soldiers, which we will take us extra half hour.  Including the detour, the hike will last for about three and a half hours. All of you should be familiar with the scenes en-route (photos below).

Water side at Shing Mun Reservoir
War fortification  "The Charing Cross"

Assembly Place:  Tsuen Wan MTR Exit B

Meeting Time:   09:00

Please bring along sun and rain gears and enough drinking water.  In case typhoon signal No. 3 or above, yellow/red/black rainstorm signal, thunderstorm signal remains hoisted at 07:30 on Friday or less than 4 persons sign up by 23:00 on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled.

Regards,
Anson

Tuesday, 5 August 2014

2014-8-8 Hong Kong Park - Bowen Road - Black's Link - Wong Nai Chung Gap

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


The weather forecast for this Friday is not so promising, "27-31 degrees C, mainly cloudy with showers, a few thunderstorms and moderate southwest wind of Force 4".  Irrespective of the frequency of the showers, the ground would be probably wet.  So, we need to abandon the country trails and choose a concrete path.

The chosen hiking trail is relatively short and level (except for a small section of Wanchai Gap Road 灣仔峽道 linking  Bowen Road to Stubbs Road/Black's Link 司徒拔道/布力徑).   We would easily cover the route within two and a half hours including stops for rests and shots.  Along Black's Link we may have a fair view of Victoria Harbour on the north side and Ocean Park in the south.


Victoria Harbour

View of South HK Island at Middle Gap
  

Place of assembly:  Pacific Place (Exit facing Hong Kong Park)
                                  (金鐘古廣場向香港公園出口)

Time:  0900 hours


Please bring sun and rain gears and drinking water.  In case typhoon signal No. 3 or above, the thunderstorm signal, the amber/red/black rainstorm signal remains hoisted at 07:30 a.,m. on Friday, or less than 4 persons have signed up by 11:00 p.m. on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled.

Regards,
Anson

Wednesday, 30 July 2014

2014-8-1 Route Twisk (荃錦坳) - Kap Lung Ancient Trail (甲龍古道) - Ho Pui Reservoir (河背水塘) - Yuen Long

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


The forecast weather for this Friday is "Mainly fine and very hot with some haze.  Chance of thunderstorms.  There will be west to SW moderate wind of force 3 to 4".  The chosen route is a relatively short, mainly downward and tree-lined path of about 7.5 km, and we would probably spend only two and a half hours to reach Ho Pui Reservoir and the adjacent village 河背村 where we can catch a village bus back to Yuen Long town.    Nearby the 河背水塘 there is an organic farm where we may buy some fresh organic vegetables.   


Organic Farm
 Ho Pui Reservoir

Place of assembly:  Tsuen Wan MTR Exit A

Time: 08:50 a.m. (we need to go up to the MTR rooftop platform to catch the bus No. 51 which may arrive at the stop at 09:00) 


Please bring sun and rain gears and drinking water.  In case typhoon signal No. 3 or above, the thunderstorm signal, the amber/red/black rain signal remains hoisted at 07:30 a.m. on Friday,or less than 4 persons have signed up by 11:00 p.m. on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled.



Tuesday, 22 July 2014

2014-7-25 Round Shing Mun Reservoir

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.

The weather forecast for this Friday is sunny intervals with a few showers, not as bad as this moment -- thundering like the sky is cracking.  To be safe, we shall walk round Shing Mun Reservoir, a paved route with the option of a stretch of unpaved track if the weather permits.  It will take about 3 hours, including resting.  

Assembly place: Tsuen Wan MTR Station Exit B


Time: 9:00 a.m.



Please bring sun and rain gears and drinking water. In case typhoon signal No. 3 or above, the thunderstorm signal, the amber/red/black rain signal remains hoisted at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, or less than 4 persons have signed up by 11:00 pm on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled.


Leo

Wednesday, 16 July 2014

2014-7-18 Hong Kong Park - Bowen Road - Black's Link - Wong Nai Chung Gap

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.

HIKING CANCELLED (Typhoon Signal No. 3)

The weather forecast for this Friday is very unfavourable and apparently unsuitable for comfortable hiking (Cloudy with rain,    heavy at times with squally thunderstorms -  strong East to SE wind of Force 6 to 7, reaching gale force on highland).  Despite such inclement weather conditions, I have planned a paved route with covers in mid way and easy for exits at various junctures, in case some die-hard hikers still prefer to go for exercising their muscles.

Assembly place: Pacific Place entrance facing Hong Kong Park

Time: 9:15 a.m.


Please bring sun and rain gears and drinking water. In case typhoon signal No. 3 or above, the thunderstorm signal, the amber/red/black rain signal remains hoisted at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, or less than 4 persons signed up to participate in the function by 23:00 on Thursday (tomorrow), the hike will be automatically cancelled.




Regards,
Anson

Wednesday, 9 July 2014

2014-7-11 Victoria Peak - High West - Pokfulam (太平山頂 - 西高山 - 薄扶林)

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.



According to the weather forecast, there will be a few showers in the morning, though it would be mainly fine (28-32 deg.C) during the day.  In view of the hot weather and showers, I chose a short, shady and paved path.  The chosen trail is a light walk round half of the Victoria Peak loop, with slight ascend to High West (up 100 m), followed by Hong Kong Trail to Pokfulam Reservoir.  The total distance is less than 6 km, and it will take us around 2 to 2.5 hours.  The greater part of the route offers a good view of the Victoria Harbour.



Assembly Point:  In front of the Peak Galleria 山頂廣場

Time:  09:30 a.m.

Transport: Bus (No. 15 Central via Admiralty, Wanchai)
                Minibus (No. 1 MTR Hong Kong Station)

Please bring sun and rain gears and enough drinking water.  In case the thunderstorm signal, the amber/red/black rain signal remains hoisted at 07:30 a.m. on Friday, or less than 4 persons signed up to participate in the function, the hike will be automatically cancelled.

Regards,
Anson





Wednesday, 2 July 2014

2014-7-4 Route Twisk 荃錦坳 to Tsuen Wan 荃威花園 via 元荃古道 and 石龍拱

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


The   forecast weather  this  Friday again turns  out to  be  fine and very hot (28 - 33 deg. C) with only moderate south wind (force 3).  In view of the very hot weather, an easy, quite shady and relatively level route (the "upward 
elevation" is only about 100 m) has been chosen.  The scenic part is around 石龍拱 where we could have a full view of west Kowloon and the Tsing Ma Bridge. 




The route covers 6.5 km and will take us 2.5 to 3 hours including rests.  We may have an early lunch in Tsuen Wan town.

Assembly Place:  Tsuen Wan MTR Exit A (we will go up to the rooftop platform to catch the bus No. 51)

Time:  08:50 (The bus will depart at 09:00 at the terminal - Tsuen Wan MTR rooftop platform is the 2nd stop)

Please bring sun and rain gears and enough drinking water.  In case the thunderstorm signal, the amber/red/black rain signal remains hoisted at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, or less than 4 persons signed up to participate in the function, the hike will be automatically cancelled.

Regards,
Anson




Tuesday, 24 June 2014

2014-6-27 Sir Cecil Ride (Braemar Hill Section) - Hong Pak Country Trail - Quarry Bay 金督馳馬徑(寶馬山段)- 康柏郊遊徑

The Fridayhikers are a group of friends who go hiking for leisure. Depending on the weather and road conditions, the hiking route may be subject to change without prior notice. Participants joining the hikes do so at their own will and at their own risk. They may consider buying their own insurance for better protection. The hike leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the hikes are exonerated from any liabilities and claims as a result of any accidents or losses arising.


The weather forecast  for  this Friday:   Fine and very hot (28-32 deg. C)  apart from isolated showers in the morning, with moderate south winds (Force 3 to 4) .  Preferably, we need to find a concrete, shady and relatively level path.


The chosen path is Sir Cecil Ride (Braemar Hill section) followed by Hong Pak Country Trail, which leads down to Quarry Bay (around 6.5 km).  We can finish the journey within about two and a half hours.  The route enables glimpses of the harbour at some points.


Assembly Place: Braemar Hill Playground 寶馬山遊樂場 (賽西湖入口側)

Time: 9:15 a.m.


Public transport to assembly point from MTR Station: 

       49M (Tin Hau MTR)
       25M (Causeway Bay MTR)

Please bring sun and rain gears and enough drinking water.

In case the thunderstorm signal, the amber/red/black rain signal remains hoisted at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, or less than 4 persons signed up to participate in the function, the hike will be automatically cancelled.

Regards,
Anson