Plover Cove Reservoir: Pedals, Trails and the Quiet Work of Water
Cycle the dam, hike the feeders — discover Hong Kong’s engineered inlet turned reservoir
At dawn the reservoir looks unpublished — a long, still ribbon of green cradled by low ridges and a concrete dam that feels more artifact than interruption. Cyclists clip in along the paved road that skirts the water; farther up, the trail narrows into an old service path swallowed by banyans and wind-pruned pines. The air carries a clean, mineral hush. Somewhere ahead, a stream that spent the night climbing through fern and rock says it will spill into a small waterfall. It keeps its promise.
Trail Wisdom
Start at Tai Po Market early
Beat the heat and crowds by meeting your guide at Tai Po Market MTR Station by 8:00 AM; morning light is best on the dam.
Wear grippy trail shoes
The hike includes short rocky scrambles and wet creek beds—trail shoes give traction on mixed terrain.
Carry at least 1.5 liters of water
There are no reliable refill stations on the hike; a hydration bladder or insulated bottle keeps you going.
Respect the catchment rules
Avoid swimming in the main reservoir and pack out all trash—this area protects Hong Kong’s freshwater supply.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Tai Mei Tuk dam viewpoint — a quieter vantage point for sunrise over the reservoir
- •Hidden feeder pools upstream of the main trail that form after sustained rain (seasonal)
Wildlife
egrets and herons along the shoreline, kingfishers and dragonflies near shaded streams
Conservation Note
The reservoir is an active freshwater catchment; stick to marked trails, avoid contaminating water sources, and follow local guidance to minimize impact.
Plover Cove Reservoir was partly created by enclosing a sea inlet in the 1960s, one of the world’s early projects to convert a cove into a freshwater reservoir to supply Hong Kong.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: wildflower displays, cool hiking, birdwatching
Challenges: muddy trails after rains, mosquitoes in low-lying pools
Spring brings blossoming understory and active birdlife; expect damp ground and dress with insect protection.
summer
Best for: lush waterfalls, early-morning rides, tropical greenery
Challenges: heavy rain and thunderstorms, high humidity and leeches after downpours
Summer offers the fullest waterfalls but also sudden storms — plan early starts and check weather forecasts.
fall
Best for: comfortable cycling, clear water views, photography at golden hour
Challenges: popular weekends can be busy, cooler mornings require layers
Autumn is ideal: milder temperatures and clearer skies make it the best overall season for this loop.
winter
Best for: quiet trails, crisp vistas, long-distance clarity
Challenges: cool winds on the dam, lower waterfall flow
Winter yields crisp air and fewer crowds; waterfalls can be reduced to trickles, but the light is excellent for photos.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Trail running shoes or light hiking shoesEssential
Provide grip on wet rock and comfort for the mixed hiking terrain.
Hybrid or trekking helmetEssential
A helmet protects during the cycling segment and is often provided by guides.
1.5–2L hydration systemEssential
Keeps you hydrated through cycling and hiking without relying on unreliable refill points.
Light rain shell
Quick protection for sudden coastal showers, especially useful during monsoon or spring rains.
Common Questions
How do I get to the tour start?
Most tours meet at Tai Po Market MTR Station; from central Hong Kong take the East Rail Line north to Tai Po Market and follow the meeting-point instructions provided by the operator.
Are bikes and helmets provided?
Guided experiences typically include hybrid bikes and helmets, but confirm when booking and request the right frame size if you have preferences.
Is swimming allowed at Plover Cove?
Swimming in the main reservoir is prohibited because it serves as a freshwater catchment; small natural pools on feeder streams may be accessible but are seasonal and should be used with caution.
What level of fitness do I need?
Moderate fitness is sufficient: expect several kilometers of cycling at steady pace and a short uphill hike with uneven terrain; regular walkers who cycle recreationally will be fine.
Can I join this trip year-round?
Yes, but conditions change: waterfalls peak in the rainy season and autumn offers the most pleasant weather; avoid heavy typhoon conditions and check cancellations during severe weather.
Are guided tours suitable for children?
Families with older children who can cycle confidently and handle short hikes generally do well; check operator age limits and bring extra layers and snacks for younger companions.
What to Pack
Trail shoes for traction; helmet (often provided) for cycling safety; 1.5–2L water or hydration bladder to stay hydrated; light rain shell for sudden coastal showers.
Did You Know
Plover Cove was one of the first major projects worldwide to convert a sea inlet into a freshwater reservoir, with construction beginning in the 1950s and completion in the 1960s to expand Hong Kong’s water supply.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book a guided tour to simplify transport and gear logistics; 2) Bring cash for market snacks in Tai Po; 3) Check the Hong Kong Observatory for weather/typhoon alerts; 4) Start early to avoid midday heat and maximize waterfall flow visibility.
Local Flavor
Pair the hike with a Tai Po Market lunch — fresh seafood stalls and noodle houses capture the New Territories’ straightforward culinary traditions; local cycling clubs often meet here on weekends, making it a social hub for outdoors people.
Logistics Snapshot
Start/finish: Tai Po Market MTR; Duration: ~4 hours; Difficulty: Moderate; Bring: Helmet, water, trail shoes; Note: No swimming in main reservoir.
Sustainability Note
Stick to marked trails, avoid soaps or detergents in streams, and support local guides who practice low-impact touring to protect the catchment.