7 Best Hiking Singapore Trails That You Should Try [2024]

Hiking Singapore

Best Hiking Singapore

Despite its reputation as a bustling urban metropolis, Singapore offers a multitude of picturesque hiking trails for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts alike.

The best hiking trails in Singapore include Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Hindhede Nature Park, Kranji Marshes, Pulau Ubin, and Bukit Batok Nature Park.

When selecting a hiking trail in Singapore, take into account elements such as distance, ease of access, level of difficulty, and location.

The hiking trails in Singapore provide a captivating mix of breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and a range of difficulty levels, suitable for hikers of all levels of experience.

These routes present an invigorating blend of natural beauty and physical challenge, making Singapore a surprisingly diverse hiking destination.

Quick Summary

  • Best hiking trails in Singapore include Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Hindhede Nature Park, Kranji Marshes, Pulau Ubin, and Bukit Batok Nature Park.
  • When choosing a hiking trail in Singapore, consider factors such as distance, accessibility, difficulty level, and location.
  • Singapore’s hiking trails offer a unique blend of scenic views, rich biodiversity, and varying degrees of difficulty, catering to both novice and experienced hikers.

Key Consideration Factors

When choosing a hiking trail in Singapore, make sure to consider these important factors:

  • Distance: Depending on your fitness level and time constraints, pick a trail that is suitable in terms of length.
  • Ease of access: Some trails may require a longer journey to reach, while others may have more convenient transportation options.
  • Difficulty level: Take into account the terrain and elevation changes, as well as any potential hazards or challenges along the way.
  • Location: Singapore has hiking trails scattered throughout the island, each with its own unique characteristics and scenery. Consider what type of environment you prefer for your hike.

Best Hiking Singapore

1) Hindhede Nature Park

Hindhede Nature Park - Best Best Hiking Singapore
(Credit: NParks)
Key Services: Variety of activities catered to everyone
Address: Along Hindhede Drive
Website:https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/hindhede-nature-park
Operating Hours: 7am to 7pm daily

Hindhede Nature Park provides an idyllic setting for families to spend quality time together, catering to individuals of all age groups, from young toddlers to elderly members.

This park is a haven of stunning flora and fauna, boasting a diverse range of species, including the banded woodpecker, clouded monitor lizard, and plantain squirrel. As you explore the park, you’ll be surrounded by the mesmerizing beauty of nature, where these creatures seamlessly blend into their surroundings.

It’s important to be observant and keep an eye out for these delightful wildlife encounters. One of the park’s main highlights is the breathtaking Hindhede Quarry, which is located at the edge of the park. Take a leisurely stroll and immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery, enjoying the enchanting wildlife sightings, similar to those in Dairy Farm Nature Park.

Not only will you have the opportunity to appreciate the natural wonders, but you’ll also get some exercise in the process, creating a truly memorable experience for everyone involved.

2) Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve - Best Best Hiking Singapore
(Credit: NParks)
Key Services: The only hill dipterocarp forest in Singapore
Address: Hindhede Dr., Singapore 589318
Website:https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/bukit-timah-nature-reserve
Operating Hours: Open everyday, 24-hours

Did you know that when it comes to toning your calves and quads, squats and calf raises aren’t the only options? In addition to those exercises, a visit to Bukit Timah can also contribute to strengthening and sculpting your leg muscles. The trail at Bukit Timah presents a challenging terrain with its elevation of 164 meters above sea level.

Not only can you engage in physical activities, but you can also immerse yourself in the historical significance of the area. This trail holds the footsteps of Japanese troops who marched through it during World War 2.

This makes it a fascinating destination for both history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. Moreover, the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including various animals, birds, and insects.

In this lush environment, the phrase “you name it, you get it” truly applies. You’ll encounter an abundance of wildlife, from playful long-tailed macaques and agile squirrels to the elusive Sunda pangolins and even the mesmerizing blue bronze back snakes.

So, if you’re looking to challenge yourself physically while immersing in history and connecting with nature, Bukit Timah is the perfect destination for you.

3) Pulau Ubin

Pulau Ubin - Best Best Hiking Singapore
(Credit: NParks)
Key Services: Rustic ambiance
Address: Pulau Ubin, Pulau Ubin, Singapore 000701
Website:https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/pulau-ubin-and-chek-jawa
Operating Hours: Daily from 8.30 am – 6.30 pm

Pulau Ubin, also known as Ubin, is a charming island located off the northeast coast of Singapore. This idyllic paradise, with its rich history and captivating rural setting, offers a truly unique experience that transports you back in time. Often hailed as “the last kampung” or village, Pulau Ubin preserves the essence of a bygone era, providing a captivating glimpse into Singapore’s past.

Pulau Ubin holds a special place in Singapore’s history, as it was once home to numerous settlers in the 1960s. Today, it stands as one of the last bastions of rural life in the bustling city-state. Its secluded nature and limited population contribute to its allure, creating an atmosphere that is both peaceful and authentic.

As you traverse the island, you’ll uncover hidden gems and encounter breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, bask in the tranquility of the mangroves, or embark on a cycling adventure through the verdant countryside. Nature enthusiasts will revel in the abundant wildlife and diverse ecosystems that call Pulau Ubin home.

For those seeking a truly immersive experience, consider spending a night under the stars at one of the island’s campsites. Jelutong Campsite and Maman Campsite offer the perfect setting for a rustic and delightful camping experience. Fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature, and wake up to the gentle rays of the sun as they filter through the trees. It’s an experience that will rejuvenate your spirit and leave you with lasting memories.

4) Coney Island

Coney Island - Best Best Hiking Singapore
(Credit: NParks)
Key Services: Houses a wide variety of habitats, including coastal forests, grasslands, mangroves, and casuarina woodlands
Address: Punggol Promenade Nature Walk, Singapore 829325
Website:https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/coney-island-park
Operating Hours: Daily from 7 am – 7 pm

Coney Place offers a truly unique and enchanting experience, where you find yourself embraced by the untouched beauty of a pristine forest. With no traces of human presence or modernization, it becomes a sanctuary of tranquility, a gateway to a realm untouched by the hustle and bustle of the mainland. Stepping foot on this secluded island is like entering an entirely different dimension, where time stands still and nature reigns supreme.

Immersed in the breathtaking surroundings, Coney Place incorporates elements that harmonize with its natural essence. Floating timbers sourced from the nearby forest are skillfully utilized, enhancing the organic charm of the place. The presence of timber signboards and benches further adds to the rustic allure.

As you wander through this hidden gem, you will encounter a rich diversity of life. The island serves as a haven for various bird species, including the lively macaques and vibrant butterflies. Moreover, it is home to an array of rare medicinal plants that are seldom found elsewhere, making it a treasure trove of natural wonders.

Exploring Coney Place is like embarking on a captivating journey through a tapestry of diverse landscapes. From the mesmerizing mangrove swamps to the secluded beaches, from the intriguing abandoned houses to the newly constructed boardwalks, every step unveils a new facet of its charm.

5) Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve - Best Best Hiking Singapore
(Credit: NParks)
Key Services: Singapore’s first wetland nature reserve
Address: 301 Neo Tiew Cres, Singapore 718925
Website:https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/sungei-buloh-wetland-reserve
Operating Hours: Daily from 7.30 am – 7 pm (Mon-Sat), 7 am – 7 pm (Sun & PH)

The mangrove forests, spanning over 202 hectares, are a rich habitat for more than 27 distinct types of mangroves, surpassing the known global count of 70. These lush forests not only provide a sanctuary for a diverse range of mangrove species but also serve as a haven for an array of captivating wildlife.

Visitors can delight in spotting an assortment of exquisite birds, monitor lizards, spiders, shellfish, and even otters as they explore this remarkable area.

To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of this enchanting landscape, ensure you equip yourself with a pair of binoculars and a high-quality camera. As you venture through the mangroves, don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the tranquility of the surrounding marshes and ponds, which often serve as thriving habitats for estuarine crocodiles.

Rest assured, accessibility is not a concern at this park. It offers full wheelchair accessibility, catering to visitors of all abilities. Furthermore, hikers have a range of enticing options to choose from, including nature trails of 3 km, 5 km, and 7 km in length.

For those seeking a unique experience, there is a remarkable 500 m boardwalk that is stroller and wheelchair-friendly, allowing everyone to enjoy the wonders of this extraordinary destination.

6) Kranji Marshes

Kranji Marshes - Best Best Hiking Singapore
(Credit: NParks)
Key Services: Largest freshwater marshland in Singapore
Address: 11 Neo Tiew Lane 2, Singapore 718814
Website:https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/kranji-marshes
Operating Hours: 7 am to 7 pm daily. However, you can not enter or remain in the area after 7:00 pm.

Kranji Marsh is a cherished destination among nature enthusiasts, nestled within the expansive freshwater agricultural expanse of Singapore.

Despite its proximity to towering skyscrapers, this sprawling 57-hectare farm offers an exceptional opportunity for birdwatching, with nocturnal bird sightings that remain hidden during the day. However, if avian creatures don’t captivate your interest, fret not, for more than 170 diverse bird species call this area their home.

Notably, the Kranji Marshes boast not only a wide array of birds and butterflies, but also play host to several uncommon monitor lizard species within their core conservation zone. To embark on this nature-filled adventure, it is advisable to secure an appointment in advance, ensuring you have ample time to explore the wonders that await.

Moreover, a towering raptor structure, standing at an impressive height of 10 meters, serves as an ideal vantage point for capturing birds in their natural habitat and indulging in wildlife photography, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the magnificence of the surroundings.

7) Bukit Batok Nature Park

Bukit Batok Nature Park - Best Best Hiking Singapore
(Credit: NParks)
Key Services: Gorgeous views, crystal clear waters, and a sense of calm
Address: Bukit Batok East Ave 2, Bukit Batok East Ave 6, Lorong Sesuai, Singapore
Website:https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/bukit-batok-nature-park
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours

For a quick and enjoyable family outing, consider visiting Bukit Batok. This park derives its name from an abandoned quarry that dates back to 1988.

The two-hour route offers a plethora of delightful experiences for those who embark on this journey. As you traverse along the scenic pathway, you’ll be greeted by a wide array of diverse flora and fauna, which further amplifies the beauty and tranquility of the entire experience.

One of the most captivating aspects of this trip is the enchanting birdsong that serenades solo trekkers, adding an extra touch of magic to the adventure. The journey itself is relaxed and leisurely, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenic views and surroundings.

It’s a refreshing escape from the concrete jungle, offering your eyes a much-needed respite with its lush greenery that is seldom found within the city limits.

Hiking Singapore

In conclusion, Singapore is a verdant oasis that blends urban modernity with an abundance of natural beauty. From the serenity of Kranji Marshes to the captivating allure of Coney Place, there’s an adventure to be had for every nature enthusiast.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for your next conquest, a bird watcher yearning for a glimpse of rare species or simply someone in search of tranquility beyond the bustle of city life, these hiking trails promise a refreshing escape.

So, strap on those hiking shoes, grab your binoculars, and step into the incredible natural landscapes of Singapore – a journey sure to awaken your senses and rejuvenate your spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If you have any questions about hiking trails in Singapore, you can refer to the frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the best Hiking Trails in Singapore below:

What are the best hiking trails in Singapore?

The best hiking trails in Singapore include Dairy Farm Nature Park, Jurong Lake Gardens, Windsor Nature Park, Labrador Nature Reserve, Chestnut Nature Park, Thomson Nature Park, Kent Ridge Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, Coney Island Park, Fort Canning Park, Mount Faber Park, and Rifle Range Nature Park.

Is there a good hiking spot in Singapore?

Singapore offers excellent hiking opportunities. The city boasts multiple well-kept trails that cater to different preferences, ranging from challenging landscapes to stunning vistas and chances to spot wildlife. Notable spots include the Labrador Nature Reserve, Windsor Nature Park, Chestnut Nature Park, and Thomson Nature Park.

Is Singapore good for hiking?

Yes, Singapore is an excellent destination for hiking. Despite its urban landscape, the city offers a surprising amount of greenery and nature reserves that provide diverse and rewarding hiking experiences. From easy strolls to challenging treks, there’s something for every hiker in Singapore.

Where is the best place to hike in Singapore?

The best place to hike in Singapore varies depending on individual preferences. Some popular choices include the Southern Ridges, MacRitchie Reservoir Park, and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. Ultimately, the best place to hike in Singapore is subjective and can be determined by factors such as difficulty level, scenery, and personal interests.

How hard is the hike to Bukit Timah?

The hike to Bukit Timah can vary in difficulty depending on the route taken. The main trail is relatively easy, with a well-paved path and gradual inclines. However, there are also more challenging routes available for experienced hikers, such as the Kampong Trail which includes steep slopes and rocky terrain. It’s always best to research and choose a suitable route based on your fitness level and hiking experience.

What is the longest hiking trail in Singapore?

The longest hiking trail in Singapore is the Coast-to-Coast Trail, stretching over 36 kilometers and passing through various parks, gardens, and nature reserves. It offers a diverse range of scenery and is suitable for experienced hikers looking for a multi-day trek. However, there are also shorter sections of the trail that can be enjoyed by casual hikers as well.

What are some popular hiking trails in Singapore?

Singapore offers a variety of scenic hiking trails for nature enthusiasts. Some of the best trails include Bukit Timah Hill, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Central Catchment Nature Reserve, Treetop Walk, Wallace Trail, and Changi East Boardwalk.

Which trail is known as Singapore’s largest nature park?

The Central Catchment Nature Reserve is known as Singapore’s largest nature park. It offers a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for hiking in Singapore.

Are there any hiking trails in Singapore that offer a rocky sea cliff experience?

Yes, the only rocky sea cliff experience in Singapore can be found at the Changi East Boardwalk. This unique trail allows hikers to enjoy stunning coastal views and explore the rugged beauty of Singapore’s coastline.

Can mountain bikers also enjoy the hiking trails in Singapore?

Some hiking trails in Singapore, such as Bukit Timah Hill and Clementi Forest, are suitable for mountain biking enthusiasts. These trails provide opportunities for both hikers and mountain bikers to enjoy the natural surroundings.

Are there any UNESCO World Heritage sites among the hiking trails in Singapore?

Yes, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It offers not only beautiful walking trails but also a stunning collection of plant species and botanical attractions.

Where can I find information about all the hiking trails in Singapore?

To find comprehensive information about all the hiking trails in Singapore, you can visit websites such as the National Parks Board or tourism websites that provide details on the various nature parks and walking trails available in Singapore.

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