If you’re looking for an activity that involves low cost, great views, simple planning and is fun & do-able by everyone then here’s our recommendation for you – Hiking! Most people get the wrong impression – Hiking does not mean climbing up hills or mountains. It simply means walking for leisure.
While you can take long walks anywhere (even around your neighbourhood), here are a couple of places you must go that lets you enjoy the wonderful views & sounds of nature. Plus, you’ll get lots of fresh air too!
HENDERSON WAVES
You probably have seen this huge structure that looks like a wooden wave while on the road.
Henderson Waves is a bridge that connects Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill. It’s one of the best spots in Singapore to admire the harbour.
There are a lot of trails & walks that will lead to Henderson Waves. A must-try is the Forest Walk. It is situated almost eye-level with the forest canopy. The elevated boardwalk has a nice easy feel & allows you to get really up-close with the forest! The walk continues on to the Earth Trail before reaching the Henderson Waves.
Once you reach the Waves, it gets more relaxing – there are plenty of spaces to sit down, lounge around & enjoy the cool breeze.
- Opening Hours: 7.00pm – 7.00am daily.
- A disabled-friendly place.
What’s the fuss: The greenery & view of Singapore is not to be missed – especially if you walk along the Hilltop Walk. None of the trails are very difficult or hard to walk through and it’s perfect for a slow relaxing adventure.
You also get to see animals in action – squirrels & monkeys can get close to you.
The best time to go: Anytime before it closes, although walking the trails in the darks is not recommended! The Forest Walk might be a bit hot during afternoon but the trails, because it’s under a lot of trees & canopy, is sheltered. Henderson Waves will be lighted up with LED lights until midnight.
Things you can do:
- Sing while walking
- Play group games
- Take photos of the different types of flora & fauna along the walk
- Visit Hort Park & enjoy the delightful array of landscape
- Have a photoshoot / videoshoot along the routes
Find out more here - http://www.nparks.gov.sg
HSBC TREE TOP WALK
MacRitchie has long been known for its running & walking trails that are close to nature & the reservoir. Its calming and peaceful surroundings make it a great place to hike. Add the TreeTop Walk to the mix & you get to experience one of the most natural surroundings in Singapore.
The TreeTop Walk hangs at 25 metres above ground & lets you view nature from a top. The 250 metres walk is really a sight to behold.
You can spot the reservoir from where you’re standing, watch the birds up close & listen to the sounds of nature without disturbing them. The TreeTop Walk is accessible from MacRitchie Reservoir & the walk there is leisurely & interesting – you get to walk on a rough trail under the canopy of trees!
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday – 9.00am – 5.00pm. Saturday to Sunday & Public Holiday – 8.30am – 5.00pm
- The TreeTop Walk is closed on Mondays (except when it’s a public holiday)
What’s the fuss: You decide how long you want to hike for! There are many trails & routes that you can go to from MacRitchie.
While TreeTop Walk is the highlight because it’s so exciting & different from the other trails, the other routes also provide great views of nature & animals. You can even walk all the way to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve!
The best time to go: Anytime before it closes! Not recommended to go after dark.
Things you can do:
- Capture pictures of animals in action
- Nature-watching
- Spot flowers and fruits along the way
- Take a breather at the huts along the way
- Take your time at the Tree Top Walk & enjoy the views
Find out more: http://www.nparks.gov.sg
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Editor’s Note: Make sure you’re properly equipped with good walking shoes & an enthusiastic bunch of friends (so you won’t feel so tired waling)! Look out for part 2 on other interesting places you can take a hike!
