December 18th: Wu Gau Teng to Sam Ah Tsuen to Wu Gau Teng

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 Friday will be the last official hike for 2015.  The two Fridays following is Christmas Day and a public holiday, followed by New Year's Day which is of course also a public holiday.  So to celebrate the last hike for 2015, we will go to Sam Ah Tsuen and have a nice lunch at 福利茶室.  Mr. Tsang has been contacted and will prepare lunch for us.  As before, he will decide the menu according to what is fresh from the sea that day.  I have requested for 泥鯭粥，芋頭扣肉，赤蠔 (subject to availability as this is rare), 大量青菜，薑蛋炒飯，芋頭蕃薯糖水 in addition to seafood.

Those who have indicated they would be coming are:
DK, KM and Margaret, John and Rita, Leo, Anson and Adrian, Hannah, Louisa and brother, Peggy, Thomas and myself.   I have informed Mr. Tsang that there will be fourteen of us.


Please note that the minibus 20C to Wu Gau Teng departs from Tai Po KCR Station at 9:10 am.  Be there early and queue up.   In case you are unable to get on this minibus as it is full, please take the minibus to Tai Mei Tuk.  This runs every 5 to 10 minutes.   Leave a message on WHATAPPS to say that you are going to Tai Mei Tuk.   

For those who are driving, you can park outside Wu Gau Teng as we start from and return to the same spot.  KM and Hannah will be driving and we will see if anyone else will drive.  It will be much appreciated if the drivers can first assemble at Tai Mei Tuk Carpark at around 9:30 am to see if there is a need to pick up passengers from Tai Mei Tuk to Wu Gau Teng.  

Please reply to confirm whether you will drive, go in someone's car, or take the minibus.

Further to the exchanges on Whatsapps, please will all twenty of us who are going this Friday please assemble at Tai Mei Tuk carpark at 9:30 am.  And we will then drive to Wu Gau Teng.  

There are now two more vacancies as two have dropped out.  Please enrol asap either on the blog or on whatsapps.  


Belinda

December 11th: Aberdeen Reservoirs

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,

It will be an easy walk tomorrow.  We will start from Wanchai Gap Park and walk along Black's Link.  Then halfway, we take Section 4 of HK Trail : the Lady Clementi's Ride and walk down to Aberdeen Reservoir Road.  From there, we will take a circular walk along the Upper and Lower Aberdeen reservoirs.  Estimated time is 3 hours.


Meeting time:  9:15 am

Meeting place:  Wanchai Gap Park (near Police Museum)

Please take Bus No. 15 (every 10 - 15 mins) from Exchange Square, City Hall or Admiralty.


Please bring sun gear, rain gear, plenty of water and snacks.



Belinda

December 4th: Yung Shue O to Pak Sha O

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,

We will walk from Yung Shue O to Pak Shao O via Sham Wan this Friday.  We will take a taxi from Sai Kung to Yung Shue O where we will assemble with others coming from Ma On Shan. The walk is about 3.5 to 4 hours.  We will then take the Hoi Ha minibus out to Sai Kung.

Please bring enough water and some snacks as it will be close to 2 pm by the time we have lunch at Sai Kung.


Meeting time:  9 am (Sai Kung taxi stand)

Meeting time:  about 9.20 am (Yung Shue O)


Please indicate whether you will be meeting at Sai Kung so we can group up for taxis.


Water, snacks, sun gear, rain gear as usual.


Belinda

November 20th 2015 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,

Friday will be dry with a temperature reaching 27 degrees.  I'm thinking of walking from Tsuen Kam Au to Tai Tong to see if the 楓香樹 have changed colour.  The route to 大棠 passing through 田夫仔and吉慶橋 is about 3.5 hours long but there is another half an hour's walk from Tai Tong down to Yuen Long.

Bring plenty of water and snacks, sun gear, rain gear and camera if you wish.


Meeting time:  9:10 am (The HOURLY bus arrives at about 9:23)

Meeting place:  Exit A   Tsuen Wan MTR station  

If you arrive at Tsuen Wan MTR station after 9:10, please go directly to the bus stop yourself.



Belinda

13th November 2015: 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.


Dear Fridayhikers,

Most sorry for this ultra late blogpost.  Because it is so late, I decided on Shing Mun Reservoir where we frequently go to so that no one would be confused about the time and date of meeting and what to expect.


Time:  9 am 

Place:  Exit B  Tsuen Wan MTR Station

We will just walk around the reservoir and if it is too wet, we will take the concrete road.  If not, we will take the hiking path.


Please bring water and snacks, rain gear and sun gear.


Note:  Peggy is organizing a hiking activity in Shenzhen on November 27th.  Details will  be given in the whatsapps group for Fridayhikers.  If you are not in the group but you are interested in this activity, please notify a Fridayhiker who is in that group for information.




Belinda

November 6th: Chek Keng

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,

Let's try Chek Keng this week.  The good side of the forecast is that it will be cooler, but the bad side is that there may be some showers but the route is paved and if the rain is not heavy, we should be all right.

Please bring enough water, rain gear and sun protection.  We shall have a simple lunch midway in one of the two small village restaurants.

Meeting time:  9 am  (Village bus departs at 9:15)

Meeting place:  Outside Macdonald's in Sai Kung.

Please queue up for the village bus  as there may be plenty of people.



Belinda

October 30th: Dragon's Back

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,

Many thanks to SS for standing in as post master for the past two Fridays.

This Friday, we will go to Dragon's Back and walk from from To Dei Wan to Siu Sai Wan.  Despite autumn being here, the forecast for Friday is for the temperature to go up to 29 degrees !   So prepare for strong winds on the ridge, and prepare for strong sun towards midday.

Bring plenty of water, sunshade, raingear and a wind jacket and a walking stick.



Meeting place:  Bus stop No. 9 at Shaukeiwan bus terminal.  Please queue up if you want a seat on the bus as there can be plenty of people.  (MTR Shaukeiwan Station Exit A3)

Meeting time:  9 am.  Buses run every 15 - 18 minutes.


There is a public toilet at the Shaukeiwan bus terminal, and a more primitive one at the starting point at To Dei Wan.





Belinda

2015 Oct 23 西貢鹿湖郊遊徑

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.



Hiking date:  23 Oct 2015, Friday

Hiking Route: Luk Wu Country Trail, Sai Kung, from 西灣亭 to 鯽魚湖,
                            6.5 Km, about 3.5 hr

Meeting Time: 8;50am

Meeting Place: 29 R Village Bus Stop, 親民街, outside MacDonald, Sai Kung
                          (bus with 28 seats to leave at 9:10am)


Kindly note that the first part of the Country Trail is very exposed. Please bring your hat and umbrella. However, the second part of the Trail is shady with taller trees on both sides of the Trail.



Cheers,
SS

2015 Oct 16 ---Lung Mun Country Trail

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 Date: 16 Oct 2015, Friday

Weather Forecast: Mainly fine. Dry during the day.

Hiking Route: Lung Mun Country Trail, 
                        From the Pine Apple Dam of the Shing Mun Reservoir to
                        Chuen Lung;
                        8 km, about 3.5 hours.
                        In the middle of the Country Trail, nice scenery of Tsuen Wan,
                        Tsing Yi and Tsing Ma Bridge.

Meeting Time: 9am

Meeting Place: Exit B, Tsuen Wan MTR.


Cheers,
SS (in place of Belinda until 23 Oct)

2015 Oct 9, Wetland Park, Tin Shui Wai

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



Sorry for the late issue of this Hiking Notice; now I am home at the computer.

Belinda is not in Hong Kong. I wrote our Hiking Notice to go to the Wetland Park tomorrow 9 Oct 2015 on "Fridayhikers" Group, Mobile phone, around 11:33am this morning. Since the use of the mobile phone is comparatively more readily at hand, as compared with the desktop computer, such a means of communication has been chosen by me this morning while my Taiji and Qi-gong friends were chatting. I am happy to discuss further with Adrian.

My apologies to those Fridayhikers who prefer to use the blog.

Hiking Date: 9 Oct 2015, Friday

Hiking Route: Wetland Park, to explore wildlife No.1 to 16, about 3 hours' walk.

Meeting Time: 9am

Meeting Place: Tin Shui Wai, West Rail, Exit E1.

Weather forecast: Sunny intervals, a few rain patches later.


Cheers,
S.S. LO

October 2nd: Sai Kung

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,

We will take a route in Sai Kung suggested by SS this Friday.  I checked the previous blogs and it seems that you took this route in May last year.  The route goes like this : 黃石碼頭 -- 土瓜坪 -- 北潭坳 -- 北潭郊遊徑 -- 鰂魚湖.   This is said to be a leisurely walk on shady paths with a gentle gradient.  I hope some of you who took this route last year will be coming this Friday as I do not know the route.


Meeting Time: 8:50 am (Bus departs at 9:00 am)

Meeting Place: Sai Kung KMB #94 Bus Terminal (destination Wong Shek Pier)

As the weather is not stable, please check the weather before you venture out tomorrow.  If the thunderstorm signal or any of the heavy rainstorm signal is hoistered at 7:30 am, the hike will be automatically cancelled.  

Please bring plenty of water with you, and rain gear and sun gear.  If it is too early for you to have breakfast before coming, please ensure that you bring something to eat on the way. 

Belinda

September 25th: HK Green Trail - Peak - Governor's Walk - Mount Austin

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,

Another hot Friday to challenge us hikers.  SS suggested a route in Sai Kung which I want to try as I haven't been there before but I cannot join this Friday if it is a route so far away.  So I shall reserve that for another Friday.  This Friday,  we will walk up the Peak via the Central Green Trail from HK Park, up Kennedy Road, Macdonald Road, Bowen Road, Brewin Path, Chatham Path, Baker Road, Plantation Road, Galleria, Lugard Road, up Governor's Walk to Mt. Austin.   If it is too hot, we can skip Mt. Austin and walk down to Pokfulam reservoir.   This is a route we took years ago.


Meeting time:  9 am

Meeting place:  Pacific Place (Admiralty)  At the bottom of the escalator leading to HK Park.


Please bring plenty of water, and sun gear.


I happened to find this just now on the web.  You can check it out:

https://hkfiles.wordpress.com/2015/03/11/new-route-easy-hike-to-the-peak-from-centraladmiralty-via-the-central-green-trail/



Belinda

September 18th: Kadoorie Farm

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,

I have chosen one of my favourite places "Kadoorie Farm" for this Friday's walk.  The weather should be good but maybe hot so bring sun gear and plenty of water.

You may drive (please contact Kadoorie Farm in advance), or take the bus 64K from Tai Po or from MTR Kam Sheung Road Station.   Aim at arriving at Kadoorie Farm by 9:30 am.


Meeting place:  MTR Kam Sheung Road Station Exit C  (For those who do not want to drive or go to the farm by themselves)

Meeting time:  9:15 am



Belinda

Next week, we will go to Dragon's Back unless it is rainy or too hot.

September 11th: 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 Fridayhikers,

To welcome myself back to hiking, I've chosen a relatively easy route for this week, our familiar walk from Wong Nai chung Reservoir Park to Tai Tam Reservoir.  The part overlooking Repulse Bay is exposed so it may be hot, but I think there is shade here and there throughout the route.

Meeting time:  9:15  am

Meeting place:  Wong Nai Chung Reservoir 


Please check on the web to see which buses can take you to Wong Nai Chung Gap Road.  I think Bus No. 6 and 61 from Central and Admiralty will take you there.  Get off at the Gas Station after the tennis courts.  Then walk towards Parkview along Tai Tam Reservoir Road.


Please take plenty of water, sunshade, rain gear with you.  Should the thunderstorm signal or any of the heavy rainstorm signals be hoistered at 8 am, the hike is automatically cancelled.


See you there !


Belinda

September 4th: Olympic Trail (Lantao)

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,

Many thanks to Michael for suggesting this route which is one of my favourites, the Olympic Trail which goes from 白芒村 to 梅窩.   It is a 3 hour walk on paved road which passes two interesting villages 白芒村 with a 更樓 (resistence to Japanese invasion) and a 三級歷史建築的門樓，有一對大門神, and the pretty 白銀鄉 and a silver mine.  The route is rather exposed but gives you a view.

Meeting place:  Tung Chung MTR Station Exit B

Meeting time:  9:15 am


The plan is to assemble and then group up to take taxis to 白芒村 (near 大壕灣).  Louisa has a better memory as I don't remember having difficulty getting a taxi.  But as Michael said, there is a bus 36 which has a stop outside the village so if there is a super long queue at the taxi stand, you can always take the bus which departs at 10 am and you get off at the third stop.

As far as I know there is a public convenience at 白芒村 as you walk in.


Please bring plenty of water, rain gear, and sun gear .

The weather should be fine tomorrow but there may be showers.  However, should the thunderstorm signal or any of the heavy rain signals be hoistered at 8 am, the hike is automatically cancelled.


Enjoy the hike !  Although one of my favourite routes, I cannot join tomorrow because of a previous appointment with friends.   See you maybe next week !



Belinda

28th August: Wanchai Gap to Aberdeen

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,

The forecast for tomorrow is showers and thunderstorm so you have to keep your fingers crossed for good weather.  The good thing is it may not be as hot as before.

The route if the weather is OK is you start from either Hopewell Centre 17th Floor and walk up to Wan Chai Gap Park, or you start at Wan Chai Gap Park.  Then you walk along Black's Link until near Nam Fung Road where you walk down the steps towards Aberdeen,  passing by Bennet's Hill and walking around Aberdeen Lower Reservoir and exiting to Aberdeen Reservoir Road.  This should take about 3 hours.  (Route 42 in Hiking all in one)

If the weather is very wet, you can just take the Aberdeen Reservoir Road from Wanchai Gap Park. This is entirely paved.  Or you can walk up to the Peak.



Meeting time:  9:15 am

Meeting place:  Wanchai Gap Park  (Take Bus 15 and get off at Police Museum.  Remember to tap your Octopus Card at the front before you get off the bus)



Bring plenty of water, rain gear and sun gear.  Should be thunderstorm signal or any of the heavy rainstorm signals be hoistered at 8 am, the hike is automatically cancelled.




Belinda

August 21st: Shing Mun

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,

Another late post !   The weather is so unpredictable !   I am inclined to just choose a very familiar place to go tomorrow.  This is in the city so you might not have to start out so early and can see what the weather is like.

You may decide to take the Shing Mun Valley route which is the walk around the reservoir.  You may decide on the Shing Mun East Country Trail.  The start and end of both routes is the same - Pineapple Dam.  The Shing Mun East Country Trail is supposed to be slightly shorter.


Meeting time:  9 am

Meeting place:  MTR Tsuen Wan Station Exit B


Please bring plenty of water, sun gear, rain gear.   Should the thunderstorm signal or any of the heavy rainstorm signals should be hoistered at 8 am, the Fridayhikers' hike will be automatically cancelled.



Enjoy your hike and fingers crossed for good weather.



Belinda

August 14th: The Peak

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,

Instead of going all the way to Sai Kung, it may be more prudent to walk on the island in view of the weather.  The forecast for tomorrow is still cloudy with showers and thunderstorms.  

Fridayhikers seem to prefer a walk on the Peak.  DK suggested walking from the Peak to Pokfulam and Anson suggested walking up the Victoria Peak from the Peak ? (a route that I don't know about).  

So I shall leave it to the group going hiking tomorrow to decide on where you want to walk.  


Meeting time:  9:15 am   

Meeting place:  The Bus Terminal on the Peak  

You can take Bus #15 from Central or Admiralty, or minibus #1 (from IFC) to the Peak.  The minibus may be crowded as many construction workers or labourers take the minibus at this hour and often there is a long long queue.  Alternatively, you may take the Peak Tram which should not be too crowded at this hour.  


Please bring plenty of water, rain gear, sun gear with you.


Please check the weather before you leave home.  Should the thunderstorm warning or any of the heavy rainstorm warnings be hoistered at 8 am. in the morning, the hike is automatically cancelled.  Safety comes first.




Belinda

AUGUST 7th Tai Tan Country Trail

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,

I've chosen the Tai Tan County Trail for veteran hikers this week as you don't seem to want short routes even in the heat of summer.  This is 6.7 km long and the book says 2.75 hours.  It only goes as high as 100 m so it is level for most parts.  We've taken this route many times and Michael claims that it is one of my favourite routes.


Meeting time:  9:15 am  (minibus departs 9:25 )

Meeting place:  Minibus No. 7 to Hoi Ha in Sai Kung


The minibus runs every half hour.  In hiking season, there are lots of people and it is good to arrive early to queue up.  But I guess that there won't be as many hikers in summer.


Please bring plenty of water and snacks, sun gear, rain gear.   The entrance to this trail is on the right hand side of the road as you go in to Hoi Ha.  Ask the driver to stop at 大灘郊遊徑, which is just before coming to 猴塘溪.

Should the thunderstorm signal or any of the heavy rainstorm signals be hoistered at 8 am, the hike is automatically cancelled.  If you want to continue, you are on your own.

Enjoy your walk !   I hope the trail gives you enough shade as well as breeze.



Belinda

July 31st: Kap Lung Forest Trail (+ section to Ho Pui via Tsing Tam Reservoirs)

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,

Friday should be a good day for hiking, sunshine and possible showers.  I've chosen the Kap Lung Forest Trail (which I missed last time and took the Ancient Trail instead) which should be about 2 hours.  It is a downhill route but more gentle than the Ancient Trail we took last time.  Once you reach the catchwater road at the bottom, you can turn right and walk out to Lui Kung Tin and take the minibus.  If you should want to walk some more, you can turn left and walk towards Ho Pui where you can take the minibus.  That should be an additional hour minimum.


Meeting time:  9:15 am  (Bus 51 arrives at about 9:25 am)

Meeting place:   Exit A  Tsuen Wan MTR station


The bus runs hourly but there should be fewer hikers in this hot weather and you should be able to get on the bus.  If you like, you can try going to the bus terminal at Tsuen Wan West Station (West Rail).  The bus departs from there at 9.20 am.


Please bring plenty of water, sunshade, raingear and mosquito repellent.




Belinda

2015 July 24 Friday

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.

Wong Tai Sin- Shatin Pass- Kowloon Reservoir

 (Wilson Trail, s.5)

Dear Fridayhikers,
Weather Forecast: cloudy with showers & squally thunderstorms, showers will be heavy at times; 25-28 degrees; 80-95% humidity, south-west force 4 to 5, occasionally force 6 offshore

Hiking Date: 24 July 2015, Friday   

Meeing Place: Wong Tai Sin MTR, exit A,

Meeting Time: 9am

Hiking Route: We will take Mini Bus No.18 to Bus Terminal at Tsz Wan Shan Road. From an ascending path, we go to Shatin Pass to walk along a paved and rather level trail, about 8 km, perhaps taking 3 hours to reach Tai Po Road near the Kowloon Reservoir.


Reminder: Please bring rain and wind gears, plenty of water and some snack. If thunderstorm or heavy rainstorm warnimg is hoisted by 7:30am, or less than 4 fridayhikers have enrolled, the hike is cancelled.

Cheers,
SS (Belinda is not in HK)

Because of thunderstorms warning, today's hike is cancelled.

Friday July 17th: HK Park - Bowen Road - Black's Link - ?

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,

The forecast for this Friday is for scattered showers with perhaps thunderstorm.  I chose a path which Anson picked last summer.  It is concrete throughout and there are exit points along the way in case of thunderstorm.

You walk up HK Park to Kennedy Road and then between 32 and 34 Kennedy Road, there are steps leading up to MacDonald road and then further up to Bowen Road.  You go east along Bowen Road and take the Bowen Path to Wanchai Gap Road where you can walk up to Wanchai Gap Park.  There you can go east again along Black's Link.  You can choose to walk down to Aberdeen Reservoir or walk on to Wong Nei Chong Gap.


Meeting time:  9 am

Meeting point:  Pacific Place, Admiralty (bottom of the escalator which leads to HK Park) near Standard Chartered Bank booth.


Please check weather before you venture out.  Hiking will be cancelled if the thunderstorm warning or the heavy rainstorm warning is hoistered in the morning.


Bring plenty of water, sungear, raingear.


Have fun !



Belinda

July 10th: Shing Mun East Country Trail

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 will be cancelled if typhoon signal No. 3 or above is hoistered at 7:30 am on Friday.


Dear Fridayhikers,

The forecast for this Friday is for scattered thunderstorm.  So please check the weather before  you go hiking on Friday morning.  If the thunderstorm warning or any of the rainstorm warnings is hoistered at 7:30 am, the hike will be cancelled.

I have chosen this trail which I am not familiar with.  The starting point is at the Pineapple Dam.  But instead of walking up the steps to go around the reservoir, take the right car road towards the main dam,  Before you reach the main dam, take the Wilson Trail and go SOUTH towards the Smugglers' Pass.  At the intersection with MacLehose Trail, go right, take the MacLehose Trail and walk along Golden Hill Road,  walk past the Shing Mun Redoubt and the trail returns to the Pineapple Dam.  This route is 7 km long and would take 2.5 hrs. to complete.


However if the group is small, I would suggest that you take the old trail around the reservoir as that is familiar and you won't get lost.


Bring plenty of water and sunshade, rain gear with you.


Meeting time:  9 am

Meeting place:  Exit B  (MTR Tsuen Wan station)


Enjoy yourselves !


Belinda

July 3rd: Tai Po Kau Nature Trail

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,

Friday will be an extremely hot sunny day for hiking.  I've chosen the Tai Po Kau Nature Trail for this week because there are four routes of different lengths to choose from.  If it is too hot, just opt for the shorter routes.  The Tai Po Kau Nature Trail is very shady in most parts and you will be protected from the sun.  On the other hand, the disadvantage is that there may not be much breeze.

Meeting place:  Tai Po KCR Station Taxi Stand
                           (Group and take a taxi to the starting point at 松仔園.

Meeting time:  9 am  


Please bring enough water, sunscreen, rain gear AND MOSQUITO REPELLENT !!!


You are reminded that the hike will be automatically cancelled if the thunderstorm warning or any of the heavy rain warning should be hoistered at  7:30 am.


It is too hot for me so I won't join you this week.  Enjoy sweating !


Belinda

June 26th: Walk up the Peak and then to Pokfulam or Aberdeen

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,

I apologize for this late posting.  It seems that the weekly postings are being done closer and closer to Friday.  I will strive to  do a better job.  

Because of the heavy and rather frequent rain during the week, I think the only choice we have is to hike on cemented roads this Friday if we can hike at all (because of possible thunderstorms in the morning).   Anyway, we will start from HKU VC Lodge,  and take Hatton Road all the way up the Peak.   Hatton Road is the narrow road opposite VC Lodge (NOT Po Shan Road).  Walk up the narrow Hatton Road and within five minutes, you will cross a bridge over Po Shan Road and the path leads you up to the Peak.  Just keep taking the path which goes up when you come to any intersection.   There is a nice washroom about twelve minutes up this Hatton Road and another one at the top of Hatton Road when it intersects with Lugard Road.   The walk up Hatton Road to this point takes about half an hour to forty five minutes depending on the humidity and your condition.   The left side (clockwise) takes about half an hour to forty five minutes to walk out to the Peak Galleria, while the right side (anti clockwise) takes about fifteen minutes to walk out to the same.  From the Peak Galleria, you can go to Pokfulam or to Aberdeen as you like.



Meeting Place:   Exit A2   (HKU MTR Station)  I think you take a lift up to the campus.  


Meeting Time:   9 am    (Those who live faraway please make a sacrifice and get up a bit early.)


PLEASE CHECK THE WEATHER BEFORE VENTURING OUT !    The hike will be cancelled if the thunderstorm signal or any of the heavy rain signals are hoistered at 8 am in the morning.



I have something on my schedule and cannot join the hike tomorrow.  Do enjoy yourselves and fingers crossed for good weather.




Belinda

19th June 2015: Tai Tam Country Trail

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,

It has been a very hot week.  Instead of taking the 4 hour hike from Braemar Hill to Quarry Bay as was discussed last week, I have decided to plan for a shorter walk this Friday.  This is the Tai Tam Country Trail which goes from Wong Nai Chung Reservoir Park, up Violet Hill, then return to HK Parkview and then via Sir Cecil's Ride back to Wong Nai Chung Gap Road.  This route is 5.2 km and should take about 2.5 hour.   As the first part of the route is uphill to Violet Hill, it is advisable to go slow, take the advantage of clear skies in the hot summer, take frequent rests and enjoy the scenery of Deep Water Bay and Lamma Island.  From Violet Hill, it is downhill all the way.

Because of the hot weather, please take plenty of water with you, and bring sun gear, rain gear and sunblock.


Meeting time:  9 am

Meeting place:  Entrance of the Wong Nai Chung Reservoir Park


To get to the meeting place, take buses (No. 6, 61, 76, 41A) and alight at the gas station after the tennis courts on Wong Nai Chung Gap Road.  Because of the recent shuffle in bus routes, please check the web yourself for appropriate buses which go up Wong Nai Chung Gap Road.


I shall not be joining you this Friday.  Enjoy the walk !

Hiking will automatically be cancelled if the thunderstorm and heavy rain signals are hoistered at 8 am.  


Belinda

June 12th: 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.


Dear Fridayhikers,

It's Shing Mun Reservoir again for this Friday which, the weather observatory says, will be hot with a chance of showers.  It's a three hour walk but mild and gentle in gradient.

Please bring plenty of water, sunblock, sun gear, rain gear, and NO plastic bags.


Meeting time:  9 am

Meeting place:  Exit B  Tsuen Wan MTR Station


Have an enjoyable walk round the reservoir.  I hope the path alongside the reservoir is once again open.


PLEASE NOTE THAT HIKING WILL BE CANCELLED IF THE THUNDERSTORM WARNING OR ANY OF THE HEAVY RAIN (AMBER, RED OR BLACK) WARNINGS IS UP BY 8 AM.  


Belinda

June 5th: Twisk Nature Trail + Kap Lung Forest Trail

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,

Another hot Friday coming up.  Please bring plenty of water, sunshade, rain gear, sunblock if you are joining the hiking.

The Kap Lung Forest Trail is 4.5 km and is a hill path with a gentle slope downward.  It should take about two hours with a short walk (turn right as you come down) out to the main road.  If you should think it too short, add in the Twisk Nature Trail at the beginning which is a circular path opposite the toilets

near the Country Park Mgt. Centre.  This will give you an extra hour of walk.

Meeting Time:  9 am  (Bus  51  arrives a minute or so after 9:20 am)

Meeting Point:  Exit B  Tsuen Wan MTR Station

Enjoy your walk.  

When you come out to the main road, you can take Bus 51 back to Tsuen Wan, or to Kam Tin.  There may be also minibuses to Fanling direction but I am not sure.

Again, should the thunderstorm warning, or any of the heavy rain signals be up at 8 am, hiking will be automatically cancelled.  The same if less than three hikers have signed up.  This is for safety reasons.  

Belinda

May 29th: Sai Kung Wong Shek to Tsak Yue Wu

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,

Sorry for the late posting.  Because of such unstable weather, I was holding off posting hiking routes and then suddenly it is Thursday !   

I was deliberating whether to take the Tai Po Kau Nature Trail which is shady but can be stuffy in such humid weather, or take a more open route which is a problem if it rains, a concrete road again or a hiking trail.  Difficult to decide !

I found this route taken in May last year which you may want to revisit again.  This was posted by Louisa.  I never went on this so I don't know this route.  Maybe Anson has a record of it.

This is supposed to be a leisurely and shady 3-hour walk with a gentle gradient : 黃石碼頭 -- 土瓜坪 -- 北潭坳 -- 北潭郊遊徑 -- 鰂魚湖. 

Meeting Time: 8:50 am (Bus departs at 9:00 am)
Meeting Place: Sai Kung KMB #94 Bus Terminal (destination Wong Shek Pier)

Please bring plenty of water as it will be hot, sun gear and rain gear. 

Should the thunderstorm signal, or the amber/red/black rain signal be on at 7:30 am on Friday, or there be less than 4 persons joining, this hike will automatically be cancelled.


Please in your reply, say whether you know this route and can lead the way.  



Belinda  
I regret to say that I cannot join as it is far too hot for me to hike.   Enjoy !

May 22nd: Wanchai to Aberdeen

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,

Please check the weather before you venture out for hiking on Friday.  Hiking will be automatically cancelled should any of the thunderstorm, amber rain, red rain, black rain signals be hoistered at 8 am in the morning.


Because of the weather forecast for unstable weather conditions, I have chosen a paved walk for Friday.  We shall assemble in Wanchai, then walk up to Wanchai Gap Park, and from there down to Aberdeen Reservoir.  If the route is too short and the weather amiable, you may go around the reservoir before walking down to Aberdeen.


Meeting time:  9am

Meeting place:  Hopewell Centre 17/F lobby facing Kennedy Road


Please bring rain gear, sun gear and plenty of water.


I cannot join again so enjoy the walk and fingers crossed for good weather.




Belinda

May 15th: Nam Chung Country Trail

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,

Sorry for the late posting.  Another hot Friday coming up.  I've chosen the Nam Chung Country Trail which is uphill for the first half and downhill for the second half.  This is 5.5 km and should take about 2.5 hour so hopefully the hike will finish before it gets unbearably hot.  Please bring sunshade as the book says it commands a good view, meaning that parts of the walk should be without shade.
I remember that there is a small brook alongside but you have to be extra careful if you should want to climb down to the brook.

The trail goes from 南涌羅屋 to 新屋仔.

Meeting time:  9 am

Meeting place:  Fanling Rail Station  (Please queue for  Minibus 56K going to Luk Keng )


Take 56K and get off at Nam Chung 路口, then walk towards 鄭屋 and 羅屋 until you come to the starting point of the trail.  At the end of the trail, walk to 新屋仔村路口 and take 56K back to Fanling Rail Station .


Please bring PLENTY of water, some snacks and bring sunshade, raingear for protection.


As the rainy season is here, please note that hikes are automatically cancelled if the heavy rain signal (amber, red or black) and thunderstorm warning should be up at 8 am.

Enjoy your hike !

Belinda

May 8th: Violet Hill

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,

The hot season has arrived.  I thought of choosing a shady path like the Tai Po Kau Nature Trail but the trail can be very hot because of high humidity.  So I decided to take a more open trail with the chance that there may be a breeze.  Anyway, the last part of the trail near the reservoir should be shaded so we can stay protected from the noon day sun.

Meeting Point:  Wong Nai Chong Reservoir near Parkview

Meeting Time:  9:15 am


To reach the starting point, take buses which go up Wong Nai Chung Gap Road (No. 6, 61, 41A) and get off at the Gas Station past the tennis courts and Country Club.  Walk up the steps next to the bus stop and walk up towards Parkview.  There is a washroom at the meeting point.

This path starts at the reservoir and goes to Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir exiting at Tai Tam Road where you can take a bus either to Stanley or to Shaukiwan.


It will be a hot day so be prepared with sun gear, rain gear, and plenty of water.  The walk is 7 km. long and should take about 3 hours.

I may not join the hike but this is a familiar route to most of us so just follow the group.



Belinda

April 24: Hok Tau Reservoir to Lau Shui Heung 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.

Dear Fridayhikers,

This route is a combination of the Hok Tau Reservoir Family Walk and the Lau Shui Heung Country Trail.  Skip the Hok Tau Country Trail ( this is an extra loop )  but start at the end of Hok Tau Road, walk up the road (washroom on the way), and take the Hok Tau Reservoir Family Walk , go around  Hok Tau Reservoir, take a clockwise direction around Hok Tau Reservoir, then go towards Shek Au Shan 石坳山, (this is part of Wilson Trail). This Wilson Trail overlaps with the Lau Shui Heung Coutry Trail.   At C2204, they  go separate ways.  Stay on Lau Shui Heung Country Trail (turning right) then go towards Kat Tsai Shan Au 桔仔山坳, and this trail will bring you to Lau Shui Heung Reservoir.  At the reservoir, walk down to the intersection of lau Shui Heung road and Hok Tau Road to take the minibus out to Fanling Station.  The walk is about 3 hours.


Meeting time:  9 am  Please queue early.  


Meeting place:  Minibus 52B to Hok Tau Reservoir at Fanling Rail Station  (Please take the minibus all the way to the Hok Tau Village, as far as it will go.  Do not get off at the BBQ area or the start of the Country Trail ).  

Please note the telephone number for Fanling minibus 2673 3626 if needed.



Please take enough water, sun gear, rain gear and snacks.


I shall not be joining this week's hike.  Enjoy !


Belinda


PLEASE NOTE THAT MAY 1ST IS PUBLIC HOLIDAY.   NEXT HIKING IS MAY 8TH.  

April 17th: Lai Chi Wo

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,

Since Lai Chi Wo is again open to the public, let's make a visit.  You might remember that a couple of weeks ago when we walked from Wu Gau Teng to Luk Keng, we passed several road signs on the way pointing to Lai Chi Wo.  Lai Chi Wo is accessible either via Wu Gau Teng or via Luk Keng.   But the route from Wu Gau Teng - Lai Chi Wo - Luk Keng would take a little less than 6 hours.

So I think it may be better to take the Wu Gau Teng Country Trail from Bride's Pool Road (where we went on March 27th), walk up A Ma Wat 亞媽笏and then after passing the Fire Lookout, continue to Fan Shui Au 分水凹 and then go to Mui Tsz Lam 梅子林 and then to Lai Chi Wo 荔枝窩.  After that, we can continue on to Sam A Tsuen 三椏村 and either take the upper or lower path back to Wu Gau Tang 烏蛟騰.   This roughly takes 4.5 hours.

The minibus which departs from Wu Gau Teng departs at 3.45 and 5.15 pm,  bearing in mind that it takes about two hours to walk from Sam A Tsuen back to Wu Gau Teng.   Whether you plan to eat at Sam A Tsuen or not, you have to plan on leaving there by 1.45 pm or 3.15 pm.


Meeting place:  20R minibus stop at Tai Po KCR station

Meeting time:  Minibus departs at 9.10 am.  I suggest you get there as early as you can to queue up.  8.30 would almost certainly guarantee you a seat.  


Get off at the roundabout just before the minibus turns into Wu Gau Teng Road.  Then walk further up Bride's Pool Road for the entrance to the trail.



Please read the above carefully as I may not join you this Friday.

Bring plenty of water, snacks or lunch, sun gear, rain gear.




Belinda

April 10th: Chek Keng

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,

I noted that Anson said that Lai Chi Wo is now again reopen to the public.  But as we just went to Wu Gau Teng the week before, I have decided to go to Sai Kung this week and then we can discuss the logistics of going to Wu Gau Teng.  The forecast for Friday is patches of rain so Chek Keng should be a safe route.

Meeting time:  9 am  (Village bus departs at about 9:15 so please arrive early and queue up)

Meeting place:  Outside MacDonald's in Sai Kung


Please bring enough water, sun gear, rain gear, etc. for your comfort.

I am down with flu so I will not join you this week.  Have fun,



Belinda

In view of unstable weather, please check weather forecast prior to starting out.  Hikes will be cancelled when the thunderstorm warning or heavy rain warning is issued.   As before, hikes will also be cancelled when fewer than 3 have enrolled.  

9.4.2015

April 3rd

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.

See you all next week !

March 27th: Bride's Pool Road to Luk Keng

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 the enjoyable hike to see the rocks last week, I hope the weather will cooperate again this week to give us dry and cool weather for another enjoyable hike.   I want to take one of my favourite routes before the weather gets too warm.

We will walk from Bride's Pool Road via a part of the Wu Gau Teng Country Trail, past the Hillfire Lookout to Fen Shui Au, then on to Kuk Po and Luk Keng.  This is a 6 km trail.  Because of some uphill and downhill sections, and stopping for the scenery, this will take about 3.5 hours.  There are two small restaurants at Luk Keng where we can have a simple lunch.  The minibus at Luk Keng (56K) runs every half an hour and will take us back to Fanling train station.

To go to the start of the trail, we will need to take a minibus 20R which goes to Wu Gau Teng and get off at the small roundabout before the minibus goes into Wu Gau Teng Road.   The only one suitable for us leaves Tai Po Train Station at 9:10 am.   If anyone misses this bus and still wants to join the hike, he/she will need to take 20C which goes to Tai Mei Tuk and catch a taxi to the starting point.


Meeting time:  9 am  (The earlier the better.  PLEASE QUEUE AT THE BUS STOP)

Meeting place:  20R minibus stop at Tai Po Train Station



available at Tai Po Train Station near the minibus stop.

also available near the start of the trail.





Please bring enough water, snacks, rain gear, sun gear, walking stick.


Belinda

Friday 20th: Cape D'Aguilar Marine Reserve

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,

I'm pleased to announce that we will be going to the Cape D'Aguilar Marine Reserve this Friday, led by our own geologist Grace.   Please check this link for more details about the area.
Depending on how much time we take to enjoy the different geological features and scenery, the walk is expected to be from 2.5 to 3 hours.

Meeting time:  9:15 am

Meeting place:  No. 9 Bus Terminal (Shaukeiwan)

PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE ARE NO TOILET FACILITIES NOR GARBAGE BINS WITHIN THE RESERVE.

You are advised to be early at the bus terminal and visit the public conveniences (five minutes away from the bus terminal)  before you board the bus.

For lunch, we can either take the bus to Shek O or Shaukeiwan.


As usual, please bring water, sun gear, rain gear and wind breaker as needed.


Belinda

Friday March 13th: 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.



Dear Fridayhikers,

In view of the comments below from Leo and Roy, I thought it would be better to change the route for tomorrow.  

We will instead take the safe trail around Shing Mun Reservoir.   Let's check if the trees are standing in water yet.  If it gets too wet and muddy, we will take the cemented road.  

Meeting place:  Exit A Tsuen Wan MTR Station

Meeting time:  9:00 am

You can also assemble at Pineapple Dam of Shing Mun Reservoir if you wish.  Be there at about 9:15 am.  


The route takes 3 hours to finish.  Bring water and snacks and rain gear and sun gear.


Belinda

March 6th: HKU - Lung Fu Shan - Pokulam Reservoir - the Peak - HKU

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,

The weather is not promising again this Friday so I'm planning a leisurely "walking" route.  With the MTR extending to HKU, we can now go to Lung Fu Shan more conveniently.  This week, I plan a 行大運 route via Lung Fu Shan.  We had a similar hike a year ago.  This time, we will start at HKU, walk up part of the way to Lung Fu Shan, then walk along the side of the hill towards Pokfulam, then go down to Pokfulam Reservoir, then walk alongside the reservoir to a road which takes us up the Peak.  If it is late, we can lunch on the Peak.  If it is early, we can walk down Hatton Road back to HKU where we can have lunch.

available at HKU, at Pokfulam Reservoir, on the Peak, along Hatton Road.

Meeting time:  9:15 am

Meeting place:  Centennial Garden HKU  (Exit C1 of HKU MTR Station)


Please bring water and snacks, rain gear and sun gear.  



Belinda

February 27th: Dragon's Back

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.

Let's go to Dragon's Back to celebrate the beginning of the Year of the

Meeting Place:  Bus stop No. 9 (Shaukeiwan Bus Terminal)  PLEASE QUEUE UP AT THE BUS STOP AS THERE MAY BE MANY PEOPLE.

Meeting Time:  9 am  (The bus runs every fifteen minutes)


We shall walk from To Dei Wan to Siu Sai Wan where we can have lunch.

Estimated time is about 3.5 hours.


As usual, please bring enough water and snacks, sun gear, rain gear, and a windbreaker in case it gets windy on the ridge.

Wishing you all as agile as a goat this year,

Belinda

2915-02-13 Mount Parker, Mount Butler, Siu Ma Shan (Wilson Trail)

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.


February 2015 seems to be a month that we may be able to see some more Hanging Bells along Mount Parker Road on Hong Kong Island.  Louisa has spotted some Hanging Bells when she walked upwards from Quarrie Bay along Mount Parker Road.  We would walk further to Mount Butler, about 400 meters high. Then we follow the Wilson Trail covering Siu Ma Shan, to walk towards Konhill---- to take the MTR to HKU's new Centennial Campus where some of us (Grace, Ruth, Anson and I) will have lunch at 一念素食 with a table booked at 1:30pm. (hiking route about 10 km, hoping to finish within 3.5 hours) Other fridayhikers who would also like to have lunch at 一念素食 with a 10-course set lunch at $188 please let me know; deadline 1pm Thursday, 12 Feb 2015

Weather Forecast: Fine, apart from some haze, 15-20 degrees, humidity 70-90%
Hiking Date: 13 Feb 2015, Friday
Meeting Time: 9am
Meeting Place: either one of these TWO:
(1) Quarrie Bay MTR, Exit A, street level, King's Road----I do not want Fridayhikers living on Kowloon side or the New Territories to spend additional time to go to Braemar Hill to start the hike;
I will start from Quarrie Bay.
(2) Braemar Hill bus terminal.-- Leo knows this area very well. It might be time saving and more convenient for fridayhikers living around the Braemar Hill area to start from Braemar Hill.

Fridayhikers who join this Mount Parker hike please choose and indicate the location of your starting point. I will communicate with Leo by mobile phone if you start from Braemar Hill to walk towards Mount Parker Road. Hope that we will meet along Mount Parker Road. Those fridayhikers going to lunch at 一念素食 will get together and check our hiking time regularly hoping to reach Konhill around 12:30 to 12:40pm. Other fridayhikers may choose to have a more leisurely walk.

Please bring water, some snack, hat, umbrella, sunbloc and walking sticks.

Cheers,
SS

2015-2-6 西貢鹿湖郊遊徑

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.

Weather forecast: mainly cloudy, dry with sunny intervals, cold in the morning 12 - 15 degrees.

Hiking Date: 6 Feb 2015, Friday

Hiking Route: Luk Wu Country Trail, from 西灣亭 to 鯽魚湖, 6.5 km

Meeting Time: 8:50 am

Meeting Place: 29R Village Bus Stop, 親民街, outside MacDonald, Sai Kung (bus with 28 seats to leave at 9:10 am)

As Louisa has shared with Fridayhikers the beautiful 吊鐘花 photos taken by her sister's friend at Luk Wu Country Trail, we are going to see the Hanging Bells in person.  From Sai Wan Ting to Chak Yu Wu, we may be able to cover the route in 3.5 to 4 hours.  In case we want to spend about 30 minutes to climb up to 大枕蓋 at 408 meters high, we may be able to see nice views of nearby islands of Sai Kung, depending on the visibility on Friday.

Cheers,
SS

2015-01-30 嘉道理農場

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.


Spring flowers such as peach, cherry blossom, bauhinia, and camellia are blooming in the Kadoorie Farm. We plan to visit the Kadoorie Farm in early 2015, to walk up to one of the two peaks. It would take about 3.5 hours to walk uphill and downhill. Possibly we would take either bus 64K or a minibus back to Tai Po, which is an area that Rita and Jon are very familiar with. Rita has suggested a new restaurant in Tai Po where we would have our lunch after our hike.

Weather Forecast: 16C- 20C, 70%-90%; sunny periods, low visibility, North Easterly winds.
Hiking Date: 30 Jan 2015, Friday
Meeting Time: 9am
Meeting Place: Tai Po Market East Rail Station, Exit A3 (64K bus terminal nearby)

Please bring water and snack, hiking sticks, sunbloc, and also your shopping bags if you would like to buy eggs and organic vegetable.

Cheers,
SS (I issue hiking blogs when Belinda is not in Hong Kong)

2015-01-23 串遊丹桂及老虎坑

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,

The weather forecast this Friday is "13-18 deg. C, mainly fine and dry with moderate to fresh east winds".  This time we have the honour of having Principal Fung lead us to try out a new hiking route in Tuen Mun area.  Details are as follows:

輕鐵鍾屋村站 → 鍾屋村 → 丹桂坑水塘(洪水坑灌溉水瑭) → 丹桂坑(澗邊山徑) → 過山坳(約300米高，間有密林，有泥沙斜坡，要帶手套) → 老虎坑(澗邊郊遊徑) → 老虎坑水塘(藍地灌溉水塘) → 虎地下村 → 富泰邨 → 西鐵兆康站
(全程約11公里，坡度大致平緩，行程約5小時。)

I have requested Fung Sir to revise the route so that we can reach our destination before 2 pm.  In this respect, he suggested we would take a taxi from 西鐵兆康站 to the end of Shun Tat Street 順達街 at 鍾屋村, which is at the edge of 丹桂坑水塘.   This revised route is about 10 km, and we should be able to complete the hike in 41/2 hours.

Meeting time   : 9:00 a.m.

Meeting place  : 西鐵兆康站B出口(坐的士到鍾屋村山邊起步)

Please bring along your rain and sun gears and sufficient water for the hike.  As advised by Fung Sir, it would be better to bring your gloves as we may need to walk through some woods (Hoi Yee 話不要被斜坡及密林幾個字嚇怕 ).  

As usual, in case the rainstorm signal or typhoon signal No. 3 or above remains hoisted at 0730 hours on Friday or less than 3 hikers sign up before 2300 hours on Thursday, the hike will be automatically cancelled (Note: I will join the hike).

Regards,

Anson 

2015-01-16 烏蛟騰至三椏村

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 Date: 16 Jan 2015 ( Friday)
Weather Forecast: some sunny periods; 17 C - 21 C;  65%-90%
Meeting Time ---9:45am
Meeting Place---Wu Gau Tang Car park

Thirteen Fridayhikers have indicated they would like to go hiking at WU GAU TANG and have our special lunch at 三椏村, 福利茶室 with 手打墨魚丸,芋頭扣肉,白灼虾,羗葱蒸魚,果皮鮑魚 etc. We plan to walk for about 2 hr 15min from Wu Gau Tang, taking the Lower Trail, to reach 三椏村 at noon, spending 2 hr for a relaxing lunch, and taking the Upper Trail to walk for 1.5 hr back to Wu Gau Tang at 3.30pm. I have requested Mr TSANG, chief cook and boss, to have our lunch ready at 12noon as there might be Fridayhikers who would take the 3:45pm minibus from Wu Gau Tang. Clearly I do not have the ability to "make sure" that lunch will be served no later than 12.30pm.

(Drivers and passengers:
KM (driver), wife Margaret; Christina, Grace, one more passenger Leo?;
Carrie (driver), SS, DK, Rita, Jon.
Adrian (? flexible? driver) Anson?
Ruth (to be confirmed) (driver), Hoi Yee.

Many thanks to Leo, our Treasurer, who has agreed that $500 will be drawn from our reserve to subsidize members' special lunch and made enquiries for mini-bus service: 9:10am from Tai Po Market East Rail Station to Wu Gau Tang; and 3:45pm from WU Gau Tang to Tai Po Market East Rail Station.

Would Fridayhikers whose names appear above confirm by writing that you will come, drive or not. Other Fridayhiker members who are coming too please indicate whether you would take public transport or drive or approach other drivers. Deadline 9am Wed 14 Jan 2015.  Once the meal is ordered on Wed, you are expected to pay your share even if you do not turn up.

Special thanks to KM who made an extra trip in Jan 2014 and would be happy to help on 16 Jan 2015 before 4pm. 

Would Fridayhiker members please take Belinda's advice from Toronto: relax over good food and a good chat!

Cheers,
SS

2014-01-09 長山 -- 北潭涌

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,

The weather forecast for this Friday is dry and sunny.  SS has picked this 2.5-hour walk on gentle slopes for us.  The first 1/3 uphill route is exposed, and then there'll be shade for the rest of the walk.  Please bring sun gear and plenty of water.

Meeting Time: 8:50 am (Bus departs at 9:00 am)
Meeting Place: KMB #94 Bus terminal (for Wong Shek Pier) at Sai Kung town centre

In case less than 4 persons sign up, the hike will automatically be cancelled.

Regards,
Louisa