One for the true adventurer, you need to have a strong level of fitness, some hiking experience a good head for heights and be prepared to scramble over boulders. If you can tick all those boxes, then please read on.
West Dogs Tooth is probably THE adventure hike in Hong Kong, located on the outlying Lantau Island. It is an alternative route up the famous Lantau Peak.
Your day will consist firstly of boarding a ferry from Central Pier 6 which will take you to the port of Mui Wo a small town on Lantau, from here a short bus journey is required to reach the trail head. A gentle start awaits on a well-made trail which although always climbing contours around the base of Lantau. This trail affords views back out to sea and of the surrounding hills but not of the challenge that awaits, that is kept secret as you are tucked in below the ridge line and peak.
The West Dogs Tooth trail is unmarked and is guarded by two huge rock boulders that signal the start of the scramble and ascent. Lantau Peak stands at 934m and as you will be starting at almost sea level including undulations the total ascent will be close to 1000m, fitness needs to be strong.
You will soon find yourself on the ridge which is West Dogs Tooth, so called because the resemblance to a row of dog’s teeth, these amazing undulating peaks which stretch out in front ascending all the while. It’s at this point that you will start to take in the wow factor of this hike and understand why it’s one of the most highly ranked hikes in Hong Kong.
The final part of the ascent brings you to the face of Yamas Wall, a steep ascent which requires concentration and that head for heights I mentioned earlier. Once you have negotiated Yamas Wall the last 80m to the Peak is back on main trail, although still steep is very rewarding as the Peak is in sight.
The descending trail will bring you down the North-East face of Lantau now offering a new vista to enjoy. You will descend for 600m from where you will take a final bus back to Mui Wo for the return ferry, or if you so wish enjoy a well-earned cold drink and maybe a bite to eat from one of Mui Wo’s fine bars and restaurants.
The ascent along West Dogs Tooth is steep in places, conditions under foot are challenging especially on the descent. A strong level of fitness is required. This hike is generally available throughout the whole year. Remember be hydrated before the hike, remain hydrated during the hike. Fluids fluids fluids we can't stress this enough.
Footwear: quality walking shoes/trainers with good grip are a must, anything less is unacceptable.
Clothing: We highly recommend the layer system according to the season
• Summer (Hot): May ~ October/November - Dri-fit, Climalite, Breathable materials
• Wet Season: April ~ September - light weight waterproof breathable shell, spare socks
• Winter (cold): November/December ~ March - Wind proof shell, fleece, hiking trousers, gloves & beanie
We highly recommend a change of clothes carried in a dry bag.
Joining any of our hikes means you have accepted & signed our terms & conditions waiver.
Any pre-existing medical conditions should be fully appraised by a doctor and their nature fully disclosed to your insurer and to ourselves.
Hydration: As in all hiking, keeping yourself hydrated is essential but never more so than in Hong Kong's hot season. It is routinely possible to lose up to 1 litre of fluid per hour whilst hiking so it is important you carry enough water/electrolytes to keep hydrated for the duration of the hike.
Public transport: Hiking in Hong Kong involves the use of the very efficient public transportation system. All our hikes start & finish at the nearest MTR station. Any transportation costs between the nearest MTR station and trail start/end will be covered by Hong Kong Hikers Ltd.
Hike start times vary, please be aware of this to ensure on-time arrival, all hikes will start promptly. Hikes will not be delayed as unfair to inconvenience others.
Mui Wo Ferry Pier, by the famous green post box, the start and finish point of the fabulous 70km Lantau Trail. The ferry to Mui Wo departs from Central Pier 6 @ 09.10
Please click the 'Book Now' button below to sign up for a hike. One of our Adventure Consultants will contact you to confirm availability or provide you with other options. Once availability is established, we'll ask for a deposit and a completed online registration to confirm your booking. Feel free to call +852 5599 1519 with any questions or to confirm availability over the phone.
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