Hong Kong owns a lot of scenic hiking trails, such as Wilson Trail, MacLehose Trail and nature trails in Country Parks, etc. Different routes give a different degree of difficulty to suit hikers of varying abilities. Close to CUHK, there is Tsung Tsai Yuen where we can find several desirable hiking trails and nature trails. You can set out from Tsung Tsai Yuen, which leads to Grassy Hill (646 m), Needle Hill (532 m) or the tallest hill in Hong Kong, Tai Mo Shan (957 m). However, for most people in Hong Kong who bury themselves in work, they are not even aware of the presence of so many beautiful countryside scenery and trails; this is definitely a very unfortunate thing. I hope to promote this healthy activity so that more people can enjoy the fun and benefits in hiking.
Hiking is a relatively safe sport for all-round physical fitness. According to statistics revealing sports injuries, the chance of injury in hiking is very low. Through excursion and hiking, not only can we enjoy the tranquility and beauty in nature, but we also experience increased exposure to natural sunlight and fresh air. It helps to relieve stress and tension, satisfying the needs of our body, mind and spirit. At the same time, hiking will also help promote blood circulation, exercise personal cardio and muscle endurance, strengthen bone joints, improve the ability to balance and more importantly, it can exercise personal perseverance and endurance, and enhance self-confidence.
While the risk in hiking is relatively low, there must still be careful planning and preparation to avoid accidents. I, therefore, recommend that the following items should be noted before any hiking activity:
(a) Do not hike alone. It is better to have four to six people in a group to take good care of each other.
(b) Select an appropriate route for yourself and your peers according to ability.
(c) Inform family or friends about your hiking trip, including the date and time for departure and return.
(d) Wear appropriate hiking clothes and hiking shoes, and bring a hiking stick for use when necessary.
(e) Collect information in advance on the destination and route, including the terrain and the weather forecast for the hiking day.
(f) Before leaving, pay attention to the day's weather report to avoid hiking under poor weather.
(g) Only clearly signposted trails should be chosen. Do not stray away or make a new route to avoid accidents or losing your way.
(h) Bring a map, compass, emergency medicine, whistle, mobile phone, flashlight / headlamp, sunscreen, rain gear, food and plenty of water. Bring along some reserves of food to prepare for contingencies.
(i) Proper rest time should be arranged during the trip to avoid fatigue.
(j) In case of an accident, you can use fixed network emergency calls along the way, or use a mobile phone to dial 999 or the international emergency number 112 to ask for help.
When we lose our way in hiking, we must remain calm and try to find a way to the summit direction. Since the hills in the territory of Hong Kong are not very high, it does not usually need more than an hour to reach the hilltop or the ridge. Besides, as most of the trails will pass through the hilltop or the ridge, we will eventually find an exit. Remember not to walk into the woods or bushes or onto the streams to avoid accidents.
Hiking is enjoyable. In order not to spoil the natural environment, I would like to urge you to abide by the Country Park code "Leave No Trace". All personal belongings (including garbage) should be taken away after hiking or camping. Do not damage animals, plants and natural features in the countryside so that every hiker after your visit, including our children, is able to enjoy the wonderful countryside environment, just like the way you did.
Mr. Liu Sun-lam, Sammy
Physical Education Unit
Faculty of Education
