Date: Nov 12th 2021

SIR CECIL’S RIDE (MOUNT BUTLER)

Shhh, whisper it... HK island’s best kept R+R secret with plenty of running options ranging from a short 6km loop of Sir Cecil’s Ride to the full length one listed here. One of our original routes where we realised the benefit of riding to less accessible spots, to start our run in amongst the mountain + trail action, rather than expending energy getting there; in this case the approach by road is lots fun on a scooter (see video); less so on foot.

THE RIDE 🔥🔥

From anywhere on the island it’s a relatively short ride, via Stubbs Road, on to Tai Hang Road before things get more interesting heading up the winding, ever-steepening Mount Butler Rd, past the quarry and then snaking up a single lane road, all the way to the top of Sir Cecil’s Ride, parking near the Mount Butler Radio Receiving Station. A unique ride if on the short side, but you can always take the scenic route home!

START / FINISH POINT 🅿️

Fairly light on services so bring all you need. If simply running Sir Cecil’s loop the scooter acts as a good base for provisions, allowing you to run light, stopping after each lap to top up on water etc. No official parking but plenty of off-road areas to leave the bike. Also some limited car parking at intervals up the hillside.

THE RUN 🍺🍺🍺

This route pieces together all the best parts of this area to provide a full length, flattish, fast flowing yet semi-technical trail with a couple of decent hills. Considering its close proximity to the city, large parts of this route feel magically isolated.

Start by dropping down onto Walker Street, across the stream and take a sharp right onto the trail (keen eyes required for this part) that takes you around to Siu Ma Shan Bridge, on to the Wilson Trail and up your first hill climb of the day. With panoramic views opening up on all sides, we hit some flattish trail, down to join the HK Trail and up towards the highest point of the route, Mount Butler.

Heading off the hillside into Quarry Pass Pavilion, take the Boa Vista fork around the island (the trail can be rocky in places so be mindful). We circle back and around the north west side of the country park after skirting Tai Tam Reservoir, back towards home. Passing Old Man Rock and some curious Dinosaur-looking rocks along Hong Pak Country Trail we finally hit the home straight and a victory lap around Sir Cecil’s Ride. A memorable R+R track, still a beverage short of going 'out out' but a close runner and still imho the best track of its kind on the Island.