While Singapore is often synonymous with its towering skyscrapers and cutting-edge designs, there’s more to this city-state than meets the eye. Nestled beneath its urban facade lies an unexpected treasure trove: a vibrant network of hiking trails. Leave behind the hustle and bustle, lace up your boots, and prepare to delve into the untamed side of Singapore.
Equip yourself with the finest trekking shoes and venture forth on foot to uncover the myriad of trails that crisscross the island. But before you set out on your expedition through Singapore’s hiking havens, ensure you’re protected from the elements by slathering on sunscreen and stowing away some mosquito repellent for an enjoyable outing.
Explore these 6 exhilarating hiking trails that are an absolute must for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Rail Corridor
Distance: Covering about 24 km in total, with a 4km central stretch recently reopened.
Duration: Variable, as there are numerous attractions and activities along the way.
Why is it Worthwhile?
Imagine this: a lush green path winding its way through the heart of the city, following the forgotten tracks of a historic railway. That’s the Rail Corridor, a 24km trail offering a unique blend of nature and heritage. Beyond its natural beauty, the Rail Corridor is steeped in history, once a vital link between Singapore and Malaysia. Today, it offers sensitively restored landmarks like the Bukit Timah Railway Station and steel truss railway bridges, along with lookout decks and paths through the rainforest.
Highlights: Explore landmarks like the Bukit Timah Railway Station and truss railway bridges, as well as nearby spots like Singapore Quarry and Dairy Farm Nature Park.
MacRitchie Reservoir
Distance: Trails ranging from easy boardwalk treks to challenging 11km hikes.
Duration: Depends on your chosen trail.
Why is it worthwhile?
Escape the city clamor and enter a world of towering trees and meandering trails at MacRitchie Reservoir, Singapore’s oldest nature park. Challenge yourself with an 11km trek, or opt for a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk. As Singapore’s oldest and most beloved nature park, MacRitchie Reservoir offers a retreat for joggers, families, and casual strollers. Don’t miss the exhilarating HSBC TreeTop Walk, providing breathtaking views from a suspension bridge high above the forest floor.
Highlights: Encounter diverse wildlife, including flying lemurs and pangolins, and watch out for long-tailed macaque monkeys.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Calling all adventure seekers! Bukit Timah Nature Reserve boasts one of the world’s richest ecosystems. Hike the 1.2km trail to the summit of Bukit Timah Hill, the highest point in Singapore, and be rewarded with stunning views.
Distance: 1.2km trail leading to a summit 164 m above ground level.
Duration: Approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
Why is it worthwhile?
Renowned for its rich biodiversity, this reserve boasts hundreds of animal and insect species, as well as a remarkable variety of trees. Choose from four walking trails, including one that passes by caves used during World War II.
Highlights: Keep an eye out for macaques, squirrels, and snakes, and listen for the melodious chirping of the striped tit-babbler.
Coast-to-Coast Trail
This trial is all about a 36 km cross-island breathtaking adventure, traversing diverse landscapes from Coney Island to Jurong Lake Gardens.
Distance: Extending 36 km across the island.
Duration: Plan for at least seven hours, depending on your pace and interests.
Why is it worthwhile?
The Coast-to-Coast Trail offers a comprehensive journey through some of Singapore’s finest parks and nature reserves, linking Coney Island in the northeast to Jurong Lake Gardens in the west.
Highlights: Traverse diverse landscapes, from quarry lakes to rustic forests, and keep an eye out for wildlife like Singapore’s resident otter family and migratory birds.
Thomson Nature Park
This green haven offers five trails spanning 3.8km. Explore ruins of a bygone era, encounter cheeky macaques, and witness the elusive Raffles’ banded langur monkey.
Distance: Five trails covering over 3.8km.
Duration: Allow one to two hours, depending on the trails you choose.
Why is it worthwhile?
Serving as a green buffer for the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, Thomson Nature Park offers a tranquil escape with scenic trails and diverse wildlife.
Highlights: Encounter ruins, macaques, streams, and perhaps even the elusive Raffles’ banded langur, along with remnants of a 1960s Hainan village.
Coney Island
Escape the city bustle and explore the rustic charm of Coney Island. This 2.5km trail winds through enchanting woods and hidden beaches. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife and soak up the serenity of this unique ecological haven.
Distance: 2.5km.
Duration: Less than an hour.
Why is it worthwhile?
Tucked away in the northeastern corner, Coney Island offers a rustic retreat, preserving the island’s natural charm. This eco-friendly park boasts timber signage and benches crafted from fallen trees.
Highlights: Explore woodlands, hidden beaches, and keep a lookout for native wildlife like macaques, rare birds, and butterflies. But watch your step for snakes if venturing into the woods!
