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Needle Hill
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Needle Hill, also known by its local name Cham Shan, is a sharp and iconic 532-meter peak located within the Shing Mun Country Park in the New Territories. Its distinctive pointed profile makes it one of the most recognizable landmarks for hikers in Hong Kong. Historically, the mountain was a center for tungsten mining, with operations reaching their peak during the mid-20th century; the remains of these mines still dot the hillsides, telling the story of the region's industrial past. The summit is a key highlight of Section 7 of the MacLehose Trail, offering a strenuous climb that rewards visitors with spectacular 360-degree views. From the top, one can overlook the vast Shing Mun Reservoir, the lush valleys of the New Territories, and the distant skyline of Kowloon. The lack of dense tree cover on its upper ridges ensures that the panoramic vistas remain unobstructed throughout the ascent, making it a premier destination for landscape photography and nature exploration.
- Location: Hong Kong SAR China
- Nearby: Jordan (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 18 | 20 | 23 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 25 | 22 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 35 | 29 | 69 | 109 | 231 | 288 | 197 | 234 | 173 | 56 | 29 | 21 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The mountain is typically accessible via the MacLehose Trail, often starting from the Shing Mun Reservoir area. This trailhead is usually well-served by minibuses from nearby urban centers.
Best season
The most pleasant conditions for this hike are found during the cooler, drier months between October and March. The summer months are characterized by extreme heat, high humidity, and frequent heavy rainfall.
Terrain & paths
The ascent to the 532-meter peak is steep and involves navigating numerous uneven stone steps. The paths in this former mining area are often narrow and demand a solid level of physical fitness.
What to bring
It is essential to bring plenty of water, as there are no supply stations along the exposed ridge trail. Comprehensive sun protection, hiking boots with good grip, and a fully charged mobile phone are indispensable.
Parking
Parking spaces at the common starting points in the New Territories are typically very limited and fill up quickly. It is strongly recommended to rely on the public transport network for arriving and departing.
Safety
The upper peak region is highly exposed, carrying a significant risk of heatstroke during intense sunlight. Do not leave the marked trails to avoid hidden hazards and prevent damage to historical relics.
Time needed
A hike incorporating this prominent peak typically requires planning for three to five hours. The exact duration varies significantly depending on individual fitness levels and the chosen connecting trails.
Geography
Facts
- Elevation: 532 m (1,745 ft)
- Tertiary conglomerate and sandstone
- Wilson Trail Stage 5 (9 km)
- Former fire lookout post (1930s)
- Average summit temperature: 20 °C (68 °F)
- Annual visitors: approx. 10,000
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Needle Hill (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the mountain called Needle Hill?
It has a very sharp, needle-like shape when viewed from a distance.
Where does the hike start?
Most hikers start from the Shing Mun Reservoir.
Is the path paved?
A large part of the climb consists of steep, paved steps.
Are there monkeys there?
Yes, at the base of the mountain near the reservoir, there are many wild macaques.
How is the view of the reservoir?
From the summit, you have a great view of the Shing Mun Reservoir.
Needle Hill: where is it located?
Needle Hill is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Needle Hill: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Needle Hill: why is it worth visiting?
Needle Hill, also known by its local name Cham Shan, is a sharp and iconic 532-meter peak located within the Shing Mun Country Park in the New Territories.
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