The Honghualing Reservoir located between the 13th and 14th segments of the Kunpeng Trail. Photos from Daily Sunshine

When examining the ecological map of Shenzhen, one cannot overlook the striking green mountain ridge stretching approximately 200 kilometers across the city. This iconic feature is none other than the Kunpeng Trail (鲲鹏径). Recently recognized as one of China’s top 10 hiking destinations for 2024, the trail has swiftly become a hallmark of Shenzhen’s natural beauty.

Stretching from Feiyun Peak (飞云顶) in Bao’an to Dayan Peak (大雁顶) in Dapeng New Area, the Kunpeng Trail is Shenzhen’s longest hiking trail. The western segments of the trail feature gentle terrain, ideal for individuals and families with children. In contrast, the central stretch offers more intricate landscapes that challenge avid hikers, while the eastern portion traverses rugged mountains, requiring advanced outdoor expertise for a strenuous experience.

Along the way, hikers traverse lush forests, serene coastlines, and meandering rivers and lakes. The trail provides a unique way to admire Shenzhen’s diverse landscapes while serving as a sanctuary for nearly 10,000 species of plants and wildlife.

Biling Waterfalls on Maluan Mountain.

Spanning 20 segments (with three segments in Pingshan District), it connects 10 major mountains, approximately 20 country parks, a dozen reservoirs, cultural landmarks, over 30 urban landscapes, and nine key development zones. The trail is designed to cater to people with varying levels of outdoor experience, with each section equipped with entry and exit points, allowing hikers to tailor their routes.

The trail is marked every 500 meters with labels from YK000 to YK415, where “Y” stands for hiking and “K” represents Kunpeng. Below are the three segments in Pingshan District:

Segment 12: YK218 — YK252

This challenging 20-kilometer route spans from Tanxiangong Temple (谭仙公庙) to the northwest entrance of Maluan Mountain (马峦山) Country Park in Pingshan. Hikers will traverse multiple peaks, including Meishajian (梅沙尖) and Daguzhang (打鼓嶂), with a total elevation gain of 1,012 meters. The journey takes approximately six to 10 hours to complete.

Pond cypress trees on Maluan Mountain.

Segment 13: YK253 — YK272

Starting at the northwest entrance to Maluan Mountain Country Park, this 10.5-kilometer route passes through trails such as Biling Waterfalls (碧岭瀑布群), the Honghualing Local Flora Hiking Trail (红花岭乡土植物步道), and Pingyan Plum Trail (坪盐赏梅步道) to admire plum blossoms, ending at Luo Family's Estate (罗氏大屋). The first half of the route consists of dirt paths, while the latter part features greenways.

Segment 14: YK273 — YK296

Starting at Luo Family's Estate, this 12-kilometer section ascends from the north entrance of Maluan Mountain Country Park to Libi Mountain (犁壁山) in Dapeng New Area, passing Chi'aoling (赤澳岭). Hikers in good physical condition can combine Segments 13 and 14 to complete the Maluan Mountain hike in a single excursion.

Chi’aoling