- UNITE Editorial
Exploring Singapore: Hiking Trails
People often perceive Singapore to be this overly-urbanised city devoid of beautiful natural landscapes. But if one was to pay attention, there are actually lots of hidden gems out there just waiting to be explored. Below are some really cool parks and nature reserves that are the perfect spots for a nice day of hiking!
1. Fort Canning Park
An iconic hilltop landmark, Fort Canning Park hosts a variety of unique trails, each with their own amazing highlights. Be awed by the interesting herbs planted in the Spice Garden along the Ancient History trail or admire the beauty of the lush greenery along the Trees of the Fort Trail. What truly makes this park stands out is its historical value. As a key site of many significant events Singapore had struggled through during the war, it is endowed with rich colonial heritage. The ancient artefacts the park houses will make your hike an even more enriching one.
2. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
We all know it to be the highest hill in Singapore. But Bukit Timah Nature Reserve offers much more than that. As one of Singapore’s few undisturbed primary rainforests, the reserve is home to a diverse variety of flora and fauna. In fact, you can find about 40% of our native plants and animals there. Get a chance to spot rarities like the Flying Squirrel and Singapore Freshwater Crab, alongside intriguing trees like the Mock Durian Tree. The reserve has only just been recently restored, adding improved features such as boardwalks and non-slip trails which will definitely enhance your overall hiking experience!
3. Sungei Buluh Wetland Reserve
A trek through Sungei Buluh will be one to remember as the abundant biodiversity of the reserve is bound to take you on a remarkable journey. Keep your eyes peeled during the hike, for you may be lucky enough to spot exotic critters like mudskippers, otters and even resident birds like kingfishers! The highlight of it all will be during the migratory season from September to November, where there will be rare opportunities to catch exclusive glimpses of shorebirds and sandpiper flocks. Perfect place for a meaningful hike, regardless of whether you are an animal lover or not.
4. Macritchie Reservoir Park
Spanning an impressive 12 hectares, Macritchie Reservoir Park boosts a scenic view of a pristine natural landscape - it is no wonder the park is one of the most sought after hotspots for many hikers. With secluded trails tucked away from the chaos of the city, it is the ideal spot for one to cultivate some inner zen. Besides, the iconic HSBC treetop walk consisting of a 250m long suspension bridge is not only an exciting attraction for the adrenaline-seeking, but also the ultimate spot to capture that aesthetic Instagram shot! A hike there will be worth your time for sure.
Yeah, there you have it – four interesting trails that will be really fun to embark on! All the insights you will gain from the unique attractions each trail offers will definitely make that casual morning/evening hike one that is worth remembering. So what are you waiting for? Grab your running shoes and start exploring now! :)
All credit for the photos goes to the respective owners.