The trail was voted the 'Best Urban Hike' in Asia by Time Magazine in 2004.
The ridge is composed of igneous rocks from the Repulse Bay Volcanic Group, dating back to the Jurassic period.
The trail is situated within the Tai Tam Country Park, which was established in 1977.
The path serves as a natural habitat for several butterfly species, including the Common Mormon and various swallowtails.
The specific undulating shape of the ridge is a product of differential erosion of the volcanic bedrock.
Dragon's Back is a ridge formation located on the southeastern end of Hong Kong Island, forming the final stage of the 50-kilometer Hong Kong Trail. The trail runs along a narrow undulating ridge at an elevation of approximately 284 meters at its highest point, known as Shek O Peak. It provides panoramic views of the South China Sea, the Shek O Peninsula, and the Tai Tam Bay area. The ridge is characterized by its uneven terrain, which resembles the spinal curvature of a dragon. Unlike many urban Hong Kong hikes, the path is largely exposed with minimal tree cover. It serves as a primary access point to the eastern coastal beaches of Shek O and Big Wave Bay. The trail surface consists primarily of dirt, rock, and stone-paved segments. It is frequently recognized by international publications for its high accessibility relative to its coastal scenery. The hike connects the mountain slopes directly to coastal village environments.
The summit of Shek O Peak offers the widest 360-degree vantage point of the coastline.
Bring significantly more water than expected, as the exposed ridge provides almost no shade.
Wear footwear with solid grip, as the granite-heavy trail can be slippery when dry and dangerous during rain.
Check the Hong Kong Observatory for high-temperature warnings before departing, as there is no refuge from the sun.
Do not attempt the hike during T3 or higher typhoon signal warnings due to dangerous wind speeds on the exposed ridge.
Practice 'Leave No Trace' by carrying out all litter, as there are no trash bins on the ridge.
