Hiking | 3 stream hiking trails and safety tips

Most people stop hikings in the hot summer in Hong Kong, but there are still some ways to play around. Stream hiking is one of them. What exactly is stream hike, and how to do it safely? We will give you all the answers in this article.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

Stream hiking is walking from the bottom of to the top of the mountain along the river stream (you can also do the other way round but it is more dangerous and you will need more equipment, which will not be covered in this article).

Stream hiking is not the same as hiking. Stream hike in Hong Kong requires scrambling, stream crossing, and sometimes swimming. All that makes it an even more exciting experience! What’s better than taking a relaxing dip into a freshwater stream in the heat?

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

Among many streams in hong kong, we recommend 3 stream hiking trails for beginners.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

Safety tips:

While stream hike is a great outing in summer, there are still a lot of things to keep in mind. Let's start with safety:

1. Essential skills check for stream hiking

The biggest difference between stream hiking and hiking is the amount of rock scrambling involved. It is also common that you need to cross a deep pool, so it is expected to be more dangerous than ordinary hiking. Before departure, please evaluate your fitness level, hiking skills and swimming skills. Personal safety is the most important consideration.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

2. Plan and research the stream hike route

Just like hiking, you must know the conditions of the stream hike route, the length of the trip, the time required, etc., in order to prepare sufficient drinking water and food. You must also know the particularly difficult climbing points, water depth, etc. in advance.

Unlike hiking, there are generally few exit points for stream hiking, and in most cases, you cannot go back or replenish. Therefore, it is very important to understand the requirements for the stream hike route. Pay attention to where the rescue team can access safely in case you need help. (for example, somewhere with mobile signal and no water flow so you can stay safely).

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

3. Observe the weather

In addition to the road conditions, the previous rainfall should also be considered. There is no accurate way to measure but you can detect the abnormal water level. Too much or too little can also be a danger signal.

The high water level can be caused by the heavy rain earlier, which makes climbing extremely difficult; the low water level is possibly due to an object blocking the stream, and you do not know when it will be released and cause a sudden overflow. Once these situations occur, there is a chance of serious casualties. It is not recommended to go stream hiking before and after the abnormal weather.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

In addition to the above precautions,

Remember not to stream hike alone, bring along sun protection clothing, and do enough warm-up. Based on the rules of leaving no traces (LNT), we should also take note of the following:

1. No sunscreen

The ecosystem of streams is very fragile. The chemicals left in the water while stream hiking will stay in low flow for a long time. Some streams may be the source of drinking water, so please wear long-sleeved clothes instead.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

2. Leave no food/trash

As we said the stream ecosystem is very fragile, any leftover can trigger a chain reaction. For example, the organic matter people left behind may cause the reproduction of bacteria/fungi/algae, resulting in the death of a large number of aquatic organisms, which cannot be recovered.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

3. Avoid touching any wildlife in stream

The aquatic creatures in the stream may be infected and killed by bacteria attached to the human body. For example, some snails are prone to extinction. Please keep your distance and just take pictures while stream hiking.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

Essential gear for stream hiking:

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

Clothing

1) Quick-drying; 2) Abrasion resistance; 3) Slim fit. It is also recommended to bring an extra set to change on the way back.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

Waterproof bag

It is recommended to buy a thick PU shoulder bag, which is different from the one for kayaking. Before you buy it, remember to check if it is airtight after buckling it up.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

Waterproof phone pouch

Pack your electronic device in a special waterproof bag designed for phones for best protection.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

Stream hiking shoes

Unlike general hiking shoes, slip resistance is the most important. Get the shoes designed for stream hike to ensure safety.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

Hats

As you don't use sunscreen, remember to wear a hat for sun protection. A chin strap would be useful while crossing the stream too.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

Sunglasses

They help you deal with bright and direct sunlight. Remember to add an eyewear retainer in case they fall off.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

Water bottle or water bladder

Timely hydration is very important for summer outdoor activities.

HIKING | 3 STREAM HIKING TRAILS AND SAFETY TIPS

Water filter

If you want to climb with lighter gear, you can also choose to bring a water filter instead of a heavy water bottle, or take it as the last resort when you are out of water. Of course, most water filters only filter bacteria, not viruses. Remember to pick a water container that fits with the water filter.