West Dog Teeth | Shek Pik to Ngong Ping | Fall 2025

This fall 2025, we are taking on the challenging West Dog Teeth hike.

Distance : 8km

Duration : 5.5 hours

Difficulty : 5/5 Advance

Our adventure begins at Shek Pik Reservoir, where we will head towards the Shek Pik Country Trail. The starting point is about 100 meters from the entrance, located behind the catchwater.

You'll need to climb a few stairs before the path levels out and remains mostly flat for the majority of the journey. Eventually, you will arrive at a large rock face marked with the Chinese characters "西狗牙," which translates to "West Dog’s Teeth." This marks the beginning of the scrambling section.

From this point, prepare for a continuous steep incline that includes some light scrambling. While the climb is challenging, it is manageable for those without prior climbing experience.

As you progress, you'll find yourself on the ridge known as West Dog's Tooth, named for its resemblance to a row of dog’s teeth. These remarkable undulating peaks stretch out before you, ascending higher as you continue. At this stage, you will begin to appreciate the breathtaking views and understand why this hike is one of the most highly ranked in Hong Kong.

The final portion of the ascent leads you to Hades Wall, a steep climb that requires focus and a good head for heights. This section is about one kilometer long, and at times you'll find yourself looking up at the towering wall ahead. Be sure to turn around frequently to take in the views—if you have decent weather like we did, you’ll be able to see the entire ridge you just hiked.

Most of the trail consists of dirt and rock, with some sections requiring you to use all fours to climb up certain ridges, adding to the adventure.

Although each ridge may appear intimidating, the views become increasingly spectacular the higher you climb. At times, the ridgeline drops off to your left or right, but there are no major hazards, and the path is wide enough to make you feel safe and balanced.

This trail serves as an alternative route to Lantau Peak, taking you along the west ridgeline of the mountain and finishing at the Ngong Ping cable cars and the Big Buddha.

Recommendations: Carry plenty of water, pack some food for energy, and bring gloves and sunscreen, as the path is quite exposed to the sun. I want to emphasize that this hike is not for the faint-hearted.