Discovery Bay to Mui Wo and Back

Saturday afternoon, once the UV index finally dropped, I decided it was time to head out. I packed my small running backpack with water and a few essentials, slipped into my nearly three‑year‑old trail runners, and set off for what I knew would be a muscle‑nagging 14.8 km adventure.

As usual, I started in Discovery Bay — my favorite launch point for exercise. My plan was to push harder than last time: climb up through the Greens to Tiger Head, then continue along the Olympic Trail all the way to Mui Wo. Whether I’d return on foot or take another route, I left undecided.

The first segment up to the ridge is always brutal. It’s about 1.2 km with 170 meters of elevation, all rocky and steep. I dug in, pushed hard, and reached the ridge in 15 minutes — a personal best. That gave me a boost of confidence.

From there, the trail climbs toward Lau Fa Tung, another 200 meters of elevation. The effort is steady but manageable, and the views toward Hong Kong Island and the Gold Coast make every drop of sweat worth it.

The final stretch to Tiger Head (Lo Fu Tau) adds another 100 meters. The terrain eases up a little here, allowing for some running before the steep finish. I hit the summit in 45 minutes — another record for me — and felt energized to keep going.

The Olympic Trail to Mui Wo is a joy for trail running. The terrain flows nicely, with only a few tricky sections and some descents that test the knees. By the time I reached Mui Wo, I had covered 9.2 km in 1 hour and 42 minutes. Silvermine Bay Beach greeted me at the finish, and I slowed to a walk along the sand, my legs shaking from the effort.

After a quick check of my options, I decided to head back to Discovery Bay. That meant climbing Mount Redwater — 275 meters of elevation in one go — before descending past the Trappist Monastery toward Nim Shue Wan Tsuen.

The sun was setting as I made my way down. Parts of the forest grew dark, turning the trail into a challenge of focus and footing. But eventually, exhausted and happy, I reached Discovery Bay.

Final stats: 14.85 km, 830 meters of elevation, 2 hours and 40 minutes. A tough but rewarding mix of hiking and trail running, and a perfect way to burn off those holiday calories.

Wishing you all a Happy Hiking New Year!