The Jardine’s Lookout and Mount Butler Hike is a must-do trail on Hong Kong Island, boasting stunning views of the city skyline. Spanning 6.5 kilometres on the Hong Kong Trail and Wilson Trail, this hike takes you up two scenic hills that offer breathtaking views.

To truly appreciate the panoramic views from the lookout points, it’s essential to tackle this hike on a clear day. But what makes this urban trail so unique is not just its scenery – it’s also steeped in history. Along the way, you’ll come across several relics from World War II, including the Osborne Memorial, and abandoned wartime stoves and war tunnels.

Our comprehensive guide to the Jardine’s Lookout and Mount Butler Hike, will take you through every step of this unforgettable hike. So, let’s get started!

About the Jardine’s Lookout and Mount Butler Hike

The Jardine’s Lookout and Mount Butler Hike is one of two trails that connect Tai Tam to Tai Koo. While the alternative route via the Tai Tam Reservoir section offers a different experience, it doesn’t provide the stunning views that this trail has to offer.

This 6.5-kilometre hike takes you up Jardine’s Lookout (433 meters) and Mount Butler (435 meters), covering a moderate distance that can be completed in a little over 2 hours.

Here’s a quick video of the hike.

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Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s dive into the best way to start this hike. In our next section, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get the most out of your Jardine’s Lookout and Mount Butler Hike.

Starting Point

You have two convenient options to begin your hike from Parkview:

Option 1: Take Public Transportation

• Arrive at the Wong Nai Chung Gap Road bus stop, served by buses 5, 6, 41A, 63, 66, and 76.
• From the bus stop, walk up the steps to Tai Tam Reservoir Road and continue past the Wong Nai Chung Reservoir to Parkview.

Option 2: Take a Taxi (or skip the uphill climb!)

• Alternatively, take a taxi directly to Parkview to save time and energy.
• Once you arrive at Parkview, look for the two trail entrances on either side of the road. The entrance on your right leads to Violet Hill and the Twin Peaks, while the entrance on your left leads to Jardine’s Lookout.

To begin your hike, simply turn left and walk under the gate to join the Wilson Trail and Hong Kong Trail. From here, you’ll start your journey up Jardine’s Lookout.

To The Osborn Memorial

As you step onto the trail, you’re immediately greeted with a series of moderately easy steps that are shaded from the sun. The gentle incline eases your transition into the hike.

After approximately 120 meters of climbing, the steps give way to a flat and well-maintained terrain that meanders between trees. This peaceful stretch of trail ultimately leads you to the first notable attraction on this hike: The Osborn Memorial.

The memorial is a standing plaque located along the side of the trail, dedicated to the members of the Winnipeg Grenadiers of Canada. Specifically, it honours the memory of Major John Osborn, who selflessly threw his body over a grenade to save the lives of several comrades. This heroic act earned him the Victoria Cross, the highest award for military valour in the British Commonwealth, posthumously.

As you continue on your hike, take a moment to read the inspiring story on the plaque and the significance of this commemorative marker.

To Jardine’s Lookout

From the Osborn Memorial, Jardine’s Lookout is a 1 km journey. The path begins on flat terrain, winding along the fence of a reservoir before arriving at its edge. The trail remains an easy stroll at this point.

As you continue, keep an eye out for a peculiar boulder etched with the year “1963”. While I’m not sure what significance this rock holds, I’d love to hear from anyone who knows more about it – please share your insights in the comments below!

The trail then begins to ascend, gradually rising through a mix of paved steps and gentle inclines.

Please note that the trail offers little shade, so be sure to pack sun protection on hot days.

As you climb higher, take a moment to glance back at the views you’re leaving behind.

As you near the top, the vegetation will start to close in around you. When this happens, you’ll know you’re almost there!

The final set of steps gives way to a flat summit, offering breathtaking views of Tai Tam Reservoir and Country Park, as well as the hills beyond – including Siu Ma Shan, Mount Butler, and Mount Parker.

And finally, just a few metres ahead lies the peak of Jardine’s Lookout.

Jardine’s Lookout Viewing Point

From the top of Jardine’s Lookout, you’ll be treated to a stunning panoramic view of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.

On a clear day, the city skyline stretches out before you, offering breathtaking views. You can even see the hills on the Kowloon side, including Lion Rock and Tai Mo Shan, in all their glory.

As you take in the views, be sure to appreciate the beautiful landscape of Tai Tam Country Park on the other side too. And when you’re ready to move on, it’s time to begin your descent down the hill.

To The Jardine’s Lookout North Catchwater

As you begin your descent from Jardine’s Lookout, the first thing that catches your eye is the historic Mount Butler Quarry.

Located between Jardine’s Lookout and Siu Ma Shan, the quarry began operations in the 1940s and continued until the 1990s. Today, part of the quarry serves as the base for the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau, used for handling and storing explosives. Another section is utilized as a firing range by Hong Kong’s Disciplinary Forces.

The descent offers captivating views of the quarry, surrounding hills, and the Tai Tam Reservoir, making it a scenic and interesting journey. However, be cautious, as many sections of the descent are quite steep.

Proceed slowly and carefully until you reach a small footbridge over the Jardine’s Lookout North Catchwater, marking the gap between Siu Ma Shan and Jardine’s Lookout.

The Climb Up Siu Ma Shan

As you emerge from the Jardine’s Lookout North Catchwater, begin your ascent up Siu Ma Shan. The initial stretch of steps runs parallel to the old quarry fence, offering scenic views of Tai Tam Reservoir and country park on the other side.

As you continue, the steps become slightly more challenging. Take your time, and don’t hesitate to take breaks if needed. Please note that the steps are exposed to direct sunlight, so be prepared for potential heat exhaustion on a sunny day.

Fortunately, this arduous stretch only lasts about 250 meters before giving way to a relatively flat section. After climbing a manageable flight of steps, the trail brings you to an abandoned Japanese war tunnel.

The trail remains easygoing from here, until you reach a signpost marking the split between Wilson Trail and Hong Kong Trail.

At this point:

• Wilson Trail veers left towards Siu Ma Shan, a flat-top hill with incredible views of Hong Kong.
• Hong Kong Trail continues straight ahead towards Mount Butler.

Unless you wish to climb Siu Ma Shan (refer to our full guide here), keep walking straight.

To Mount Butler

From the signpost, continue along Hong Kong Trail Section 5, where Mount Butler will come into clear view.

As you make your way up the trail, you’ll notice it momentarily descends, offering views of the eastern half of Victoria Harbour. But don’t get too comfortable – before long, the trail begins its final ascent up Mount Butler.

The steps can be challenging for some, so pace yourself and take breaks if needed. The good news is that these stairs are shaded, providing some relief from the sun.

As you near the top, the shade will give way, and you’ll see the summit come into view. Congratulations on reaching the top of Mount Butler!

Mount Butler Viewing Point

From the summit of Mount Butler, you’re treated to breathtaking views that stretch far and wide. The 360-degree panorama takes in Hong Kong, Kowloon, and beyond.

To the north, you’ll spot Tai Koo, eastern Kowloon, and Junk Bay.

Meanwhile, a glance to the south reveals the tranquil beauty of Tai Tam Upper Reservoir and Country Park.

As you gaze out, you can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment as you take in the distance you’ve travelled from Parkview, the starting point for this hike.

To Quarry Gap

After taking in the stunning views from Mount Butler, it’s time to begin your descent. The route down to Quarry Gap is a short but steep one.

As you make your way down the steps, take a moment to appreciate the unique view of Mount Parker’s radar station before it disappears into the treetops. Remember to exercise caution on the steep steps as you descend.

After about 250 meters of walking downhill, you’ll reach the base of the stairs and find yourself at Quarry Gap, a popular intersection of roads and trails in the Quarry Bay Area. This pavilion marks the end of your descent from Mount Butler.

Quarry Gap serves as a vital hub for hikers, offering access to various trails, including those leading up to Mount Butler, Mount Parker, and throughout Tai Tam Country Park.

If you’re aiming to complete the Jardine’s Lookout and Mount Butler Hike, simply turn left and follow the signs pointing towards Quarry Bay.

Walk down Mount Parker Road

As you leave Quarry Gap, begin your descent back towards the city by walking down Mount Parker Road. You’re now on the final stretch of your hike.

The tarred surface of the road makes it easy to walk downhill. We’ve made this journey many times before and have never failed to spot wild boars along the way (just remember to keep a safe distance and stay on the path).

As you make your way down the winding road, take in the scenic views and enjoy the gentle descent. After approximately 1.2 kilometres, the road splits into two paths (next to the entrance for the Hong Pak Country Trail).

To the left, Mount Parker Road continues its downhill trajectory, while the right-hand path takes you down to the Quarry Hill Tree Walk. At this point, you have the option to take a short detour to visit the abandoned wartime stoves – a unique and fascinating historical site.

End the Hike on King’s Road

If you choose not to take the detour to the wartime stoves, proceed down Mount Parker Road by taking the left path at the fork.

As you continue walking, you’ll pass one of the entrances to Sir Cecil’s Ride, followed by a toilet with an outdoor seating area and viewing deck.

Just beyond this point, you’ll reach the entrance to the Quarry Bay Tree Walk (if you had taken the wartime stoves detour, this is where you would rejoin Mount Parker Road).

The road then winds its way through some twists and turns before arriving at another outdoor seating area. From here, it’s just a short distance to the Woodside Biodiversity Education Centre, which features exhibition galleries showcasing Hong Kong’s precious natural resources and biodiversity.

After visiting the centre, stay on Mount Parker Road for approximately 700 meters as it makes its way down to King’s Road. At this point, you’ll find yourself right next to the famous “Monster Building”.

From King’s Road, you have a few options to conclude your hike.

Turn left and walk for 5 minutes to reach the Quarry Bay MTR station, or turn right and walk for 5 minutes to reach the Tai Koo MTR station. Alternatively, King’s Road is a major road with easy access to buses, trams, or taxis, making it simple to end your hike.

One of the Best Hikes on Hong Kong Island

We hope you found our guide to the Jardine’s Lookout and Mount Butler Hike informative and enjoyable! This hike is truly one of the best on Hong Kong Island, offering breathtaking views of the city and country parks, as well as a glimpse into Hong Kong’s World War II relics, adding to its charm.

If you’re looking for another hike with similar views, we highly recommend the Siu Ma Shan Hike. Alternatively, if you’re up for a more challenging adventure, the Violet Hill and Twin Peaks Hike is an excellent choice. For a relaxing stroll in the Quarry Bay Area during the summer months, the Hong Pak Country Trail is a great option.

As always, please feel free to share this guide on the social media channel of your choice and drop us a comment below. Your feedback helps us improve our guides and provide more valuable information for future hikers.

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