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Jardine’s Lookout and Mount Butler

A perfect hike filled with history, amazing stair climbs, and diverse views

Also in Southern, Hong Kong S.A.R.

Hiking Difficult

Distance
5.9 km
Ascent
266 m
Descent
518 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
43 m
High Point
414 m
Gradient
13˚
Jardine’s Lookout and Mount Butler Map

This incredible hike has it all: some of the most scenic views of Hong Kong, heart-pumping climbs, historic landmarks, covered and uncovered earth trails, and relaxing downhill paths. Couple that with easily accessed trailheads, and you have the perfect combination for a half-day hike. Begin by making your way to Parkview, from where you’ll see the well-marked Jardine’s Lookout signpost.

Description

For history buffs, this point-to-point hike offers an insight into Hong Kong’s past. You’ll pass the Osborn Memorial, a plaque dedicated to the Winnipeg Grenadiers of Canada for their efforts defending Hong Kong on this mountain during World War II. You’ll also walk alongside the boundary of the Mount Butler Quarry. This second historical landmark is a massive quarry that operated between the 1940s and 1990s and is now used for training and storage purposes. Finally, you can take a short loop detour towards the Quarry Bay Tree Walk to see and walk around some of the last-standing wartime stoves. These stoves were built in case of an attack during World War II but were never used as the Territory’s forces couldn’t withstand Japanese enemy forces long enough.

You’ll also be rewarded with stunning views from both summits on this hike. From your first peak, Jardine’s Lookout, enjoy the glorious juxtaposition of a city view to the northwest and marvelous nature to the southeast. After your steep ascent to your second summit, Mount Butler’s peak, the trail opens up to sprawling views of rolling green hills, reservoirs, far-away buildings, and sea. The Mount Butler lookout also offers unparalleled views of Quarry Bay and Tai Koo — parts of Hong Kong you don’t often see from above. Once at the bottom of the mountain, you can easily catch the MTR or hop on a tram or bus.

This historically significant hike gives you incredible sweeping city vistas, summit climbs, and a walk through history.

Sources: https://www.geocaching.com/geocache/GC4WFF4wartime-stoves-the-guardian?guid=dd9dcdac-9a0c-4997-bf73-097a61fab3fb https://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/hongkong/bilateralrelationsbilaterales/plaques.aspx?lang=eng https://industrialhistoryhk.org/mount-butler-quarry/

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.

High Exposure

3 out of 4

Some trail sections have exposed ledges or steep ascents/descents where falling could cause serious injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between October and April

Features

  • Historical
  • Picturesque
  • Summit Hike
  • Dog friendly
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area