[2023] Hiking in Singapore: 26 Hiking Trails For All Ages

In a bustling urban jungle like Singapore, who would have thought that we’d have an abundance of nature parks and hiking trails right here on our shores? We aren’t called the ‘Garden City’ for nothing. 

Apart from being a fun and unique way to discover new places in our city-state, hiking is also a great form of exercise. Combined with the richness of the great outdoors, this simple yet effective activity can bring about a host of health benefits for anyone and everyone, even the elderly. 

This includes everything from improving your cardiovascular health, boosting bone density, lowering the risk of heart disease, improving your balance and core strength, and even reducing stress. 

With the abundance of trekking and hiking trails in Singapore, it can be a challenge to know where to start. But we’ve got you covered. 

From east to west and north to south, let us take you across 26 of Singapore’s best hiking trails for you to explore! 

Where to hike in Singapore? 

West 

1. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Standing at 164 metres above ground level, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is known to be Singapore’s highest peak and is a crowd favourite among novice and experienced hikers. Its diverse ecosystem is home to an abundance of animal and insect species, native flora and fauna, as well as unique tree species. The hill also holds historical significance as the final spot of the British military during the Japanese Invasion. With four walking trails to choose from, visitors are surely spoilt for choice here. 

• Location: Hindhede Drive 
• Entry point: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre 
• Length of trail: 1.2km
• Difficulty level: 2/5

2. Hindhede Nature Park

For those looking for a more leisurely trail, Hindhede Nature Park is a great place to start. Located just beside Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, it features easy trails and distinct footpaths that are great for the elderly, families with children, and beginner hikers. Right at the end of the trail, visitors will be greeted by the majestic and scenic view of the Hindhede Quarry, which is a great spot for pictures and family photos. Don’t miss the chance to do some wildlife watching and keep your eyes peeled for inhabitants like the plantain squirrel and the banded woodpecker. 

• Location: Hindhede Drive (Upper Bukit Timah Road) 
• Entry point: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre
• Length of trail: 90 metres 
• Difficulty level: 1/5

3. The Green Corridor

What was once a railway track connecting Singapore and Malaysia has now become a repurposed hiking trail for trekkers in the West. Surrounded by grasslands, marshes, and endless stretches of greenery, it is no wonder why this trail is called the Green Corridor. While the terrain can be rather rocky and rugged for some, the taste of history and tranquillity it brings makes the journey worthwhile. 

• Location: Upper Bukit Timah Bridge 
• Entry point: There are various entry points to choose from including the Truss Bridge, Upper Bukit Timah Bridge, Hindhede Bridge and Underpass, and the Bukit Timah Railway Station 
• Length of trail: 24km trail that goes through Kranji, Bukit Panjang, Bukit Timah, Tanglin, and Alexandra 
• Difficulty level: 3/5

4. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

From riverine species, shorebirds, to lush forests, this ASEAN Heritage Site is teeming with life at every turn. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is Singapore’s first wetland reserve and a fantastic place for wildlife watching all year round. With over 200 species of birds, 100 species of fish, and over 500 species of tropical flora and fauna, trekking through the park will be a sure treat for all nature lovers. 

• Location: 60 Kranji Way 
• Entry point: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Wetland Centre
• Length of trail: Spanning up to 3km 
• Difficulty level: 1/5

5. Kranji Marshes

Spanning over 56 hectares of land is Singapore’s largest freshwater marshland. The Kranji Marshes is home to a vast range of green habitats and a myriad of bird and butterfly species, making it a great hiking destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. For a birds-eye view of the marsh, make your way up to the Raptor Tower and bask in the insane view from 10 metres up. While visitors are free to explore the area on their own by foot, NParks organises monthly guided walks that give visitors a closer look at the conservation area that’s close to the public. 

• Location: 11 Neo Tiew Lane 2
• Entry point: Kranji Gate 
• Length of trail: 1km (for area open to the public) & 3km (for a guided tour in the conversation area) 
• Difficulty level: 1/5

6. Dairy Farm Nature Park

For those looking for a more rugged and jungle-like hiking experience, the Dairy Farm Nature Park is just the place for that. Although the park is mostly frequented by mountain bikers thanks to its biking trails, the Wallace Trail can be traversable by foot. With the trail being generally flat, and paved with jungle tracks and pathways, this hiking trail is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

• Location: 100 Dairy Farm Road 
• Entry point: Dairy Farm Road 
• Length of trail: 2.2km 
• Difficulty level: 3/5

7. Chestnut Nature Park

Stretching across 81 hectares, Chestnut Nature Park is Singapore’s largest nature park to date. Depending on your preferred difficulty level, the park offers two different trails for you to choose from — the Northern and Southern Loop. The Northern Loop is ideal for those looking for an easier walk with a flatter trail and fewer slopes, while the Southern Loop is slightly more challenging with winding slopes and steeper terrain. Regardless of which trail you take, all visitors can enjoy the same densely forested surroundings and lush greenery throughout the hike. 

• Location: Chestnut Avenue 
• Entry point: Bangkit Road  
• Length of trail: 2.1km (South Trail) & 3.5km (North Trail) 
• Difficulty level: 3/5

8. Bukit Batok Nature Park

To wrap up the Western Adventure Loop, beginners can enjoy a laid-back hike at Bukit Batok Nature Park. Some of the park’s most attractive highlights include the wildlife sightings like monitor lizards and native birds and the Bukit Batok Memorial Site located at the top of the hill. After overcoming the countless flights of stairs and winding footpaths, don’t forget to take in the view of the stunning quarry at the end of the trail. 

• Location: Cnr Bukit Batok East Avenue 2, Bukit Batok East Avenue 6
• Entry points: Bukit Batok East Avenue 6, Lorong Sesuai, or Hillview Park Connector 
• Length of trail: Less than 4km 
• Difficulty level: 1/5

9. Clementi Forest

Up until October last year, this untouched beauty has been relatively unknown to the general public. After netizen Brice Li shared stunning footage of Clementi Forest on social media, it has captured the attention of many local hikers and nature lovers alike. Spanning an area of 85 hectares, the forest looks like something fresh out of nature documentary with its freshwater streams, misty foliage, lush vegetation, and towering trees. With no official trails here, this hike is best suited for experienced hikers or bigger groups. 

• Location: Bounded by King Albert Park, Clementi Road, and Old Holland-Ulu Pandan Road 
• Entry point: Clementi Road 
• Length of trail: 4km to 5km 
• Difficulty level: 4/5

10. Coast-to-Coast (C2C) Trail

Stretching from Jurong Lake Gardens to Coney Island Park, this trail is not for the faint-hearted. This curated 36-kilometre trail will literally take you from coast to coast, where you’ll pass a total of 10 checkpoints, 11 park connectors, and 18 parks and nature reserves. If you have an entire day to spare and are up for the challenge, this trail was made for you. To plan your route more efficiently, download the Coast-to-Coast Mobile App to enjoy an interactive trekking experience. 

• Location: Jurong Lake Gardens to Coney Island Park 
• Entry point: Jurong Lake Gardens 
• Length of trail: 36km 
• Difficulty level: 5/5

East 

11. Pulau Ubin

As one of Singapore’s last remaining villages or “kampong”, Pulau Ubin is filled with a great deal of historical significance as well as natural sights. While most people visit the island for its cycling trails, there are also various hiking trails for locals to choose from. At Chek Jawa Wetlands, prepare to trek through six unique ecosystems including the mangrove and coastal forest area. For a more unique view, the short hike to Puaka Hill overlooks the Ubin Quarry and provides breathtaking sightings of Malaysia and the Johor Strait. 

• Location: Pulau Ubin 
• Entry point: Pulau Ubin Ferry Terminal 
• Length of trail: Varies depending on the chosen trail 
• Difficulty level: 1/5

12. Coney Island Park

Unlike other nature parks in the country that are far more developed, Coney Island Park boasts a rustic hiking experience for its visitors. Wildlife enthusiasts may want to bring a camera on their hike as you are likely to come across unique migratory birds, rare plant species, and a plethora of habitats include grasslands and mangrove swamps. Considering that most of the park is still underdeveloped, consider bringing plenty of water as there are no amenities along the way. 

• Location: 900 Punggol Road 
• Entry point: Coney Island Park West Entrance
• Length of trail: 2.5km 
• Difficulty level: 2/5

13. Changi East Boardwalk

If a scenic trek along the coast is more up your alley, make your way to Changi East Boardwalk. While this trail isn’t so much a hike in itself, this is a great destination for families to enjoy a relaxing stroll by the beach. With 6 checkpoints in total, the trail starts from the East starting with Creek Walk, all the way to Sunset Walk near Changi Beach Club. Don’t forget to soak up the natural ambience of the trail, where flora and fauna have been well-integrated into the boardwalk’s design. 

• Location: 7A Gosport Road 
• Entry point: Creek Walk 
• Length of trail: 2.2km 
• Difficulty level: 1/5

14. Tampines Eco Green 

Tucked away in the Tampines enclave, you’ll find eco-friendly park Tampines Eco Green. A nature haven for a variety of recreational activities, visitors can explore three beginner-friendly walking trails and discover different species of flora and fauna as well as various natural habitats. As part of their ecologically conscious efforts, most of the park’s structures are made from recyclable materials and environmentally friendly products like their eco toilets and green shelter roofs. 

• Location: Tampines Avenue 9 
• Entry point: Tampines Eco Green Park Entrance 
• Length of trail: 3km 
• Difficulty level: 1/5

North 

15. MacRitchie Reservoir Park

As Singapore’s oldest nature park, MacRitchie Reservoir Park has been a coveted hiking spot among locals and tourists alike for many years. Visitors are spoiled for choice with the various trails available—from boardwalk treks for those with children and elderly family members, and trails that go as long as 11km for ambitious and experienced hikers. The Treetop Walk, one of the main highlights of the park, is now reopened after a year-long closure as well.

• Location: MacRitchie Reservoir Park
• Entry point: MacRitchie Reservoir Park Main Entrance 
• Length of trail: Up to 11km 
• Difficulty level: 2/5

16. Windsor Nature Park

As one of the lesser-known nature parks in Singapore, Windsor Nature Park still retains the untouched splendour that most of its developed counterparts lack. Along the park’s trails, you’ll find boardwalks, cobblestones, lush forests, freshwater streams at every turn. Visitors should try out their two most popular trails—the Hanguana Trail to discover different species of wildlife and fruit trees, and the Drongo Trail—featuring a sub-canopy walk for visitors to walk the greenery beneath the forest floor. 

• Location: 30 Venus Drive 
• Entry point: Windsor Nature Park Entrance 
• Length of trail: Up to 2.2km 
• Difficulty level: 1/5

17. Upper Peirce Reservoir Park

Did you know? Singapore’s heartlands are also home to some of the most tranquil hiking trails. Upper Peirce Reservoir Park offers lakeside views and easy trails that are great for those looking for a relaxing stroll and less vigorous hike. Just like most nature parks in the Northern region, you might get the chance to see local inhabitants like the long-tailed macaque if you’re lucky! 

• Location: Upper Peirce Reservoir Park
• Entry point: Casuarina Entrance
• Length of trail: 3.3km  
• Difficulty level: 1/5 

18. Lower Peirce Reservoir Park

As you continue your hike from Upper Peirce Reservoir Park, you’ll find yourself at Lower Peirce Reservoir Park. In comparison, this hiking trail runs along the edge of the reservoir, which gives hikers a chance to come across some friendly and gentle creatures. Beyond the thrilling encounter with wildlife, the 900-metre boardwalk is truly the star of the trail as it leads you through the charming views that the park has to offer. 

• Location: Lower Peirce Reservoir Park
• Entry point: Casuarina Entrance
• Length of trail: 900m
• Difficulty level: 1/5

19. Northern Explorer Loop

The Northern Explorer Loop is an 11km trail that takes you through 6 park connectors in the north with a variety of terrains. Starting at Lower Seletar Park, this trail brings you through Mandai Park Connector, Ulu Sembawang Park Connector, Woodlands (SLE) Park Connector, Admiralty Park, and ultimately ends at Woodlands Waterfront. You will pass by playgrounds, water bodies, and other attractions, making it great as a family activity.

• Location: Heartlands of Woodlands, Sembawang and Yishun
• Entry point: Lower Seletar Reservoir Park
• Length of trail: 11km
• Difficulty level: 2/5

South 

20. Mount Faber Park

Formerly known as ‘Telok Blangah Hill’, Mount Faber Park is a hotspot for both tourists and locals. Considering its proximity to Harbourfront and Sentosa, the trails have been revamped and updated over the years to cater to the increasing number of visitors each year. With that, the trails are easily traversable and suitable for all age groups and fitness levels. Besides its hiking trails, visitors can enjoy scenic views of Sentosa Island from various lookouts, and even skip the hike altogether and take a cable car to the summit. 

• Location: Junction of Kampong Bahru Road and Telok Blangah Rd
• Entry point: Mount Faber Park Entrance 
• Length of trail: 3km 
• Difficulty level: 2/5

21. Labrador Nature Reserve

The boardwalk trail along Labrador Nature Reserve is one of the most picturesque seaside trails you’ll ever find in the South. On top of that, the park is home to the only rocky sea-cliff on Singapore’s main island that remains accessible to the public. Not only is this paved and forested trail an ideal spot for nature lovers, but also those with a knack for historical sites. Here you’ll see genuine war relics and sites including machine-gun posts and artillery pieces that date back to WWII. 

• Location: Labrador Villa Road 
• Entry point: Berlayer Creek
• Length of trail: 2.1km 
• Difficulty level: 1/5

22. The Southern Ridges 

Stretching across 10 kilometres of Green, the Southern Ridges connects all 5 different parks in the Southern region of Singapore, including Mount Faber Park and Labrador Nature Reserve. This highly-developed trail includes insta-worthy attractions such as the iconic Henderson Waves and the elevated Forest Walk, which is a crowd favourite for bird-watching. Be sure to take occasional breaks to capture that customary shot! 

• Location: The Southern Ridges
• Entry point: Telok Blangah Hill Park 
• Length of trail: 10km 
• Difficulty level: 4/5 

23. Imbiah Trail

Besides sparkling beaches and luxurious resorts, Sentosa is also home to the Imbiah Trail, a tranquil path surrounded by lush greenery and over 80 different species of birds!

• Location: Sentosa
• Entry point: Sentosa Nature Discovery Gallery
• Length of trail: 3.5km 
• Difficulty level: 1/5 

Central 

24. Fort Canning Park

Nestled within Central Singapore and accessible by various railway stations, it’s hard to miss Fort Canning Park. While most people know that park as a sought-after venue for music festivals and countless other art events, Fort Canning is also home to a variety of hiking trails — eight, to be exact. Despite its altitude of 48 metres, the well-paved steps combined with the helpful trail guides will allow visitors to easily traverse the hill at their own pace.

• Location: River Valley Road 
• Entry point: Fort Canning MRT Station or Bras Basah MRT Station 
• Length of trail: 2.5km
• Difficulty level: 2/5

25. Thomson Nature Park

With five easy trails stretching 3.8 kilometres, Thomson Nature Park is an excellent spot for beginners. What makes this park unique from its counterparts is how it used to be a former Hainan Village back in the day. On the Ruins and Figs trail, visitors can get a rare glimpse of the conserved ruins while the standalone Rambutan Trail takes you around an old rambutan plantation from the 1930s. 

• Location: Upper Thomson Road 
• Entry point: Thomson Nature Park Main Entrance 
• Length of trail: 3.8km 
• Difficulty level: 2/5

26. Mandai T15 Trail

The Mandai T15 Trail, also known as the Gangsa Trail, is a 7.1-kilometre point-to-point trail within the Central Catchment Nature Reserve and takes you around Mandai Lake. Besides the beautiful flora and fauna which includes the Sambar deer, macaque and Oriental Whip Snake, you should also keep an eye out for the popular Fallen Trunk along the reservoir! However, do be mindful of others when hiking as the track is shared amongst trekkers and cyclists.

• Location: Central Catchment Nature Reserve
• Entry point: Central Catchment Park Connector Entrance
• Length of trail: 7.1km 
• Difficulty level: 2/5

You’re never too old to hike and enjoy nature’s wonders 

Whether you are young or young at heart, taking care of your health should be one of your biggest priorities. While some may still be sceptical about the suitability of hiking for seniors, there are many ways to safeguard one’s safety during a hike. All you need to do is dress appropriately, equip yourself with the right footwear and equipment, bring plenty of water, and stretch before you embark on your journey. Should you require any additional assistance for a fun day out, you can always get the help of Homage’s caregivers for the added precaution as you have fun with peace of mind. 

For those with young children, you may be interested in bringing your little ones for a fun day out to these child-friendly hikes in Singapore as well! 

By incorporating different forms of exercise into your daily routine such as outdoor hikes, you’ll be doing wonders for both your physical health and mental well-being. 

Need a hiking companion? Get a free consultation with us to find out how we can help your loved one to be more physically active as they enter their golden years.