Overview the Values of the Long-distance Trails in the Country Parks of Hong Kong

ABSTRACT

Several well-maintained long-distance trails (LDTs) have been developed over the past 40 years since the establishment of the first country park in Hong Kong. These LDTs attract over 11 million visitors from Hong Kong and overseas annually. Most visitors enjoy hiking in the country parks and it becomes the most popular outdoor activity. This study evaluates the values of these hiking trails. Secondhand data from previous studies and reports are used to evaluate the values of long-distance hiking trails. The recreational, economic, social, and conservation values of these trails in country parks are explored and examined. The findings of this study highlight LDTs in the country parks offering enormous benefits for the community particularly during the post-Covid 19 that the LDTs provide an important recreational opportunity for local residents. Policy and management implications for the protection and development of protected areas are discussed, and suggestions for improvement are made.

KEYWORDS:

• Long-distance trails
• protected areas
• recreation and social values
• ecotourism
• Hong Kong

Acknowledgement

The authors would like to thank for the Education University of Hong Kong to support the sabbatical leave of Dr. Lewis Cheung which he could spend time on completing this manuscript.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Notes

1 During his governorship (1971-1982), MacLehose strongly supported the designation of country parks through the introduction of relevant policies and legislation as well as the allocation of human and financial resources. The Country Parks Ordinance was enacted in 1976, and over the next 3 years, from 1977 to 1979, 21 country parks were designated for purposes of natural conservation, countryside recreation and outdoor education.

2 The designation programme of country parks in Hong Kong started in 1977. Over a period of 3 years, 21 country parks were designated, covering 40% of the land area. They cover most of the natural areas in Hong Kong with different landscapes and habitats.

3 It was named one of the 20 dream trails of the world by National Geographic Society in 2016.