Are you looking for a fun hobby you can do during your free time? If yes, then maybe it is already time for you to start going on hikes. Hiking is an exciting and memorable activity that offers numerous benefits for both physical and mental well-being. Physically, it provides a full-body workout, improving cardiovascular health, building muscle strength, and enhancing balance and coordination. Mentally, hiking in nature reduces stress, boosts mood, and increases overall happiness. The combination of physical exertion and the calming effects of nature creates a holistic experience that rejuvenates the body and mind.
In Singapore, hiking is quite a popular hobby. Despite its urban landscape, Singapore boasts a variety of hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels and preferences. These trails provide an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a newcomer to the scene, this article is right for you! Read on to discover seven of the best hiking places in Singapore that will surely awaken the adventurous spirit in you.
1. Windsor Nature Park
Windsor Nature Park is a perfect place for hiking in Singapore. Nestled in Singapore’s Central Catchment Nature Reserve, it offers a serene escape into nature with its lush greenery and diverse wildlife. First opened in 2017, the park spans 75 hectares and features approximately 4 kilometers of trails, including the wheelchair-friendly Hanguana Trail, the scenic Squirrel and Drongo Trails, and the rugged Venus Loop. Visitors here can also explore freshwater streams, elevated boardwalks, and regenerating secondary forests, making the park a haven for birdwatching and spotting native plants. Overall, Windsor Nature Park serves as a green buffer for the Central Nature Park Network, providing a tranquil environment for nature enthusiasts to enjoy leisurely walks.
Customer Reviews
Bel
Yesterday I had a good amazing hiking at Windsor Nature Park. A lot of climbing, feel so adventurous. This park has 3 trails and also link to MacRitchie Reservoir. Is an interesting park to hike.
Maharani ArviPutri
The hiking experience was great. I came with my classmates and had fun seeing nature and exercising my body. This was my first time coming over here and definitely recommend to come with friends and families.
Isaac Kargar Samani
We were impressed by how well-maintained the trails were and how the natural surroundings were preserved. Thanks to the rain we saw monkeys upclose! So a rainy day shouldn’t prevent you from going there 😊.
Website: | https://beta.nparks.gov.sg/visit/parks/park-detail/windsor-nature-park |
Contact: | 1800 471 7300 |
Location: | 30 Venus Dr, Singapore 573858 |
Opening Hours: | 7 AM – 7 PM Daily |
2. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is another popular hiking spot located near the geographic center of Singapore. It spans 163 hectares and is home to the country’s highest natural peak, Bukit Timah Hill, standing at 163 meters. Established in 1883, this reserve is one of the largest patches of primary rainforest in Singapore, boasting over 840 species of flowering plants and more than 500 species of fauna. Visitors here can explore various trails that wind through dense forests, offering opportunities to spot unique wildlife, such as the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo and the Malayan Colugo. The nature reserve also features the Eco-Link@BKE, which is an ecological bridge that allows wildlife to safely cross between Bukit Timah and the Central Catchment Nature Reserve.
Customer Reviews
Pearpocket 1308
Great place to hike. There are a lot of hiking trails to meet hikers with various challenge levels.
Natasha Wong
Good place for a moderate to challenging hike, depending on your fitness level. will suggest exploring the different routes available, and to go during early mornings when the air is fresh and less crowds 😊.
D L
Great place to hike and immerse in nature. There are various recommended hiking trails online and I followed one which is around 7km. The hike involves lots of climbing up and down and took me around 3 hours on a leisure pace. Some of the steps are quite steep and some people may find it helpful to use a hiking pole.
Website: | https://beta.nparks.gov.sg/visit/parks/park-detail/bukit-timah-nature-reserve |
Contact: | 1800 471 7300 |
Location: | Hindhede Dr, Singapore 589318 |
Opening Hours: | 7 AM – 7 PM Daily |
3. Tampines Eco Green
Tampines Eco Green is a 36.5-hectare ecological park in Singapore that offers a tranquil retreat with its diverse habitats, including freshwater wetlands, grasslands, and secondary rainforest. The park is designed with minimal intrusion in order to preserve much of its natural state. Visitors here can explore three main hiking trails: the Diversity Trail, Marsh Trail, and Forest Trail, each of which offers unique experiences and opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography. Some notable features of this hiking spot include eco-toilets and snags, which are standing dead trees that provide habitats for birds. Located just 20 minutes from the MRT station, Tampines Eco Green is essentially a perfect place for nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape from urban life.
Customer Reviews
Shirley Wang
A pretty good place to take a stroll in the afternoon since it’s nice and shady. The trails are pretty short and very easy to hike.
Elle See
Lovely little piece of greenery. Easy walks. Lots of birds to see, and butterflies and turtles. Suitable for introducing young ones to hiking.
Kelvin See
Nicely done park, embrace with nature forest. There is a running route, with scent of greenery, a forest trail. At times, u can see rare species of birds chirping, swarming into the nature forest. I have added couple pictures for display.
Website: | https://beta.nparks.gov.sg/visit/parks/park-detail/tampines-eco-green |
Contact: | – |
Location: | Tampines Ave 9, Singapore 520491 |
Opening Hours: | 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM Daily |
4. Pasir Ris Park Mangrove Boardwalk
Tampines Eco Green is a 36.5-hectare ecological park in Singapore that offers a tranquil retreat with its diverse habitats, including freshwater wetlands, grasslands, and secondary rainforest. The park is designed with minimal intrusion in order to preserve much of its natural state. Visitors here can explore three main hiking trails: the Diversity Trail, Marsh Trail, and Forest Trail, each of which offers unique experiences and opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography. Some notable features of this hiking spot include eco-toilets and snags, which are standing dead trees that provide habitats for birds. Located just 20 minutes from the MRT station, Tampines Eco Green is essentially a perfect place for nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape from urban life.
Customer Reviews
Shirley Wang
A pretty good place to take a stroll in the afternoon since it’s nice and shady. The trails are pretty short and very easy to hike.
Elle See
Lovely little piece of greenery. Easy walks. Lots of birds to see, and butterflies and turtles. Suitable for introducing young ones to hiking.
Kelvin See
Nicely done park, embrace with nature forest. There is a running route, with scent of greenery, a forest trail. At times, u can see rare species of birds chirping, swarming into the nature forest. I have added couple pictures for display.
Website: | https://beta.nparks.gov.sg/visit/parks/park-detail/pasir-ris-park |
Contact: | – |
Location: | 60 Pasir Ris Dr 3, Singapore 519497 |
Opening Hours: | 24 Hours Daily |
5. Coney Island
Coney Island, also known as Pulau Serangoon, is a 133-hectare island located off the northeastern coast of Singapore. This rustic and ecologically sustainable park, managed by the National Parks Board, opened to the public in 2015 and features a 2.4-kilometer-long trail and a 2-kilometer-long beach, which offer visitors a chance to explore diverse habitats, such as mangroves, coastal forests, and grasslands. The island is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers, with opportunities for birdwatching, cycling, and enjoying the serene natural environment. Among the notable attractions at Coney Island are the iconic Coney Island gates and the Casuarina Exploration Playground. Overall, Coney Island is a tranquil spot perfect for those seeking peaceful retreat amidst nature.
Customer Reviews
Irene Lim
Good place to relax and hike.
Roja Sree Kancherla
If you need forest hiking feel this is a good place for nature detox. But a part of it is closed for construction. Good if you go on a sunny day
Kenny Zhang
Calm and serene place. good for hiking and run! but bewares of monkeys and wild dogs.
Website: | https://beta.nparks.gov.sg/visit/parks/park-detail/coney-island-park |
Contact: | 1800 471 7300 |
Location: | Punggol Promenade Nature Walk, Singapore 829325 |
Opening Hours: | 7 AM – 7 PM Daily |
6. Rasau Walk
Another relaxing spot for hiking in Singapore is Rasau Walk, which is a scenic 300-meter boardwalk that winds through a restored freshwater swamp. This peaceful path is lined with clusters of Nibong palms, Sealing Wax palms, and Rasau plants, thereby offering visitors a serene escape into nature. Moreover, the walk is home to over 50 species of plants and provides a habitat for various shorebirds, such as the Grey Heron and White-breasted Waterhen. Educational signboards along the boardwalk are also place to provide insights into the unique ecosystem, making it an enriching experience for nature enthusiasts. All in all, Rasau Walk is perfect for a leisurely stroll, as it allows visitors to enjoy the lush greenery and calm surroundings of Jurong Lake Gardens.
Customer Reviews
J Seng
Nice trail to experience several types of plants and trees. Many of the plants bear fruits or herbs that are used in local cuisines. e.g. torch ginger flower, sago etc.
Samuel Swee
Very nice path to walk, especially in the morning. You can also do bird watching here, and there are guided tours to identify bird species.
Andrew Chou
Cool trail.
Website: | https://www.nparks.gov.sg/juronglakegardens/explore-our-gardens/attractions/rasau-walk |
Contact: | 1800 471 7300 |
Location: | Jurong Lake Gardens, 9 Japanese Garden Rd, Singapore 619228 |
Opening Hours: | 24 Hours Daily |
7. Thomson Nature Park
Completing this list of the best hiking places in Singapore is Thomson Nature Park, which offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and the natural beauty of the country. Opened only in 2019, Thomson Nature Park is located adjacent to the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. Generally, the park is notable for its conservation efforts, particularly for the critically endangered Raffles’ Banded Langur. Visitors here can explore five trails totaling 3.8 kilometers, which wind through the ruins of a former Hainan village, offering a glimpse into the area’s history. The park’s lush forests are also home to diverse wildlife, including the Sunda Pangolin and the Malayan Porcupine. Overall, Thomson Nature Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Customer Reviews
Dada Madrigal
Lovely place to hike, explore the ruins of Hainan Village.
CT Liaw
A beautiful nature park for family hike / walk. Good place to get away from the the fast paced life and close to nature again. Well-marked trails to guide the direction. We ddin’t encounter any wild monkey inside the jungle. We are lucky on the way back inside the car, we saw one whole bunch of money sit in the middle and side of the road, so please drive carefully.
Loon Keong Lew
Great place to hike around even the timing approaching noon. The difficulties is Low to mid with some slope. Here, you can have a glimpse of the history of a community mostly Hainanese families. Even the famous Han’s cafe family settled down here too.
Website: | https://beta.nparks.gov.sg/visit/parks/park-detail/thomson-nature-park |
Contact: | 1800 471 7300 |
Location: | Upper Thomson Rd, Singapore 787129 |
Opening Hours: | 7 AM – 7 PM Daily |
Conclusion
Singapore undoubtedly offers a wealth of hiking opportunities, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers or outdoor enthusiasts. The country’s diverse range of trails caters to all levels of hikers, from beginners to seasoned adventurers. These trails usually provide a refreshing escape from urban life, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the place’s lush greenery. With well-maintained paths and scenic views, hiking in Singapore is surely a delightful way to stay active and explore the natural beauty of the region. Whether you are looking for a leisurely walk or a challenging trek, the hiking places in Singapore mentioned in this article all offer a rewarding and memorable experience for everyone that is definitely worth every step.