Maclechose Trail Section 3 | Pak Tam Au to Shui Long Wo

MacLehose Trail (Section 3) is the second hardest of the 10 sections. It starts at Pak Tam Au (150 meters) and climbs Ngau Yee Shek Shan before descending to Cheung Sheung. Continuing southwest, it passes Wa Mei Shan and Lui Ta Shek, returns to 150 meters, climbs to Kai Kung Shan (400 meters), and ends at Kei Ling Ha on Sai Sha Road.

Getting to the starting point of MacLehose Trail (Section 3) is easy: take bus 94/96R or minibus 7 from Sai Kung and get off at Pak Tam Au. The trail begins near a large stone carving. 

Initially, you'll encounter criss-crossed roots followed by about 1 km of big stone steps. There’s a wooden bench halfway for a rest. The second half of the stairs is in worse condition, but there are resting spots. After reaching Ngau Yee Shek Shan, enjoy an open view of Chek Keng Hau, Wong Shek, and Grass Island.

Next is an easy mountain trail with a flatter road. Follow the sign to Shui Long Wo, pass the Cheung Sheung Campsite, and keep left. After 5 minutes, take the left path at the bifurcation to Shui Long Wo. This section is a slight uphill slope with trees, eventually leading to flat, open mountain scenery. At post M058, find the trail on the right side of Wa Mei Shan to see Tsam Chuk Wan.

Starting down the mountain, descend 150 meters to a fork with directions to Yung Shue O, Pak Tam Road, and MacLehose Trail. Head west-southwest towards MacLehose Trail. After a while, continue on the mountain, passing many steps and reaching gravel trails. You'll then need to climb 250 meters to Kai Kung Shan, which will require significant effort.

Reach the top of Kai Kung Shan, where tree cover limits the view. The trigonometrical station is missing, and all that's left is the summit at 399 meters marked by a rooster pattern. Afterward, you'll encounter a 3km downhill path through the jungle. Follow the MacLehose Trail at all forks until you reach sign M068. The endpoint is the Barbecue Area, which has toilets and drinking machines.