Panoramic vistas, exotic birds and forest adventures... The Southern Ridges is a stunning trail to trek.
We love exploring the outdoors. There’s nothing quite like fresh air and walking amongst tall trees to take our mind away from life’s stresses. Think of it as a form of therapy. We shine the spotlight on The Southern Ridges for a hike in the city. Made up of a 10km trail that connects Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, HortPark, Kent Ridge Park and Labrador Nature Reserve, the trail has plenty to offer for hikers, including flora and panoramic views. It’s also perfect for beginners; the route we took (route A which ends at Kent Ridge Park) is mostly made up of a straight path. Alternatively, route B will lead you to – Labrador Nature Reserve. Time to get those hiking shoes out!
Guide to The Southern Ridges
1. Mount Faber Park
The hike began fairly easy at the cable car and dining destination, Faber Peak. Walking downhill to Faber Walk (at the top of Marang Trail), we took a detour down a hilly trail leading to Telok Blangah Rise. It’s here that our morning really began – a stunning, bird’s eye view of the nearby neighbourhood and cityscape greeted us amongst the lush foliage. Hit pause for a bit to breathe in the fresh morning air, and stretch those muscles out before heading back up to Faber Walk and continuing your way to the next destination.
2. Henderson Waves
Anyone who’s ever been to Henderson Waves will agree: this 274m-long wood-panelled bridge is a marvel. The award-winning, wave-like structure is made up of seven curved ‘ribs’ for shelter and is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore. Come after dusk if you’re looking to catch night city views. It’s also a great spot to catch the sunset.
3. Telok Blangah Hill Park
Next on our hike was the Forest Walk (detours from Henderson Waves include Alkaff Mansion and Sembcorp Forest of Giants) above Telok Blangah Hill Park. The elevated walkway takes visitors through a 1.3km trail through secondary forest canopy. If you’d like to venture into the forest at ground level, take the steps down to beneath the steel structure and explore the Earth Trail. The terrain here is rough and may be muddy (depending on weather conditions), so word of advice: don’t come here if you’ve got brand new trainers on.
4. Hortpark
Step aside, Singapore Botanic Gardens. Hortpark is a major contender for the most beautiful park in the city. Entering the 23-hectare park, you’ll find yourself at the well-manicured Hortlawn. Walk further in and you’ll find a slew of gorgeous themed gardens including ones filled with butterflies, edible greens and even a therapeutic one for the elderly with a stunning variety of flora and greenery on display.
5. Canopy Walk
From Hortpark, you’ll find yourself at an up-slope park connector leading to Kent Ridge Park. It’s here that you’ll find the perfect end to your hike. Make your way to Canopy Walk, a 280m elevated boardwalk that allows trekkers to experience another secondary forest at eye-level, bird-watch, and relax over the views of the nearby landscape.
So, who’s ready to explore the sights and sounds of The Southern Ridges?
