Head to Singapore's largest park for rustic hiking trails and adrenaline-fuelled mountain biking
Despite constant additions to its skyscraper scene, one can’t deny this: the concrete city’s also one of the greenest places on Earth. For the outdoors-y, there’s now one more reason to rejoice. Another ‘new’ park has popped up on our radar, and it looks set to be a popular destination for both hikers and mountain bikers.
Located on the Eastern end of Chestnut Avenue near Bukit Timah, Chestnut Nature Park isn’t exactly new to the scene. But with the recent opening of its Northern section, the park is now the largest nature park in Singapore at 81 hectares, and amasses a space larger than 110 football fields. Its biggest highlight? It’s the only park with separate loops for hikers and bikers. Keep reading to find out more about these trails.
Hike the trails
Chestnut Nature Park is made up of two North and South hiking trails, amounting to a total distance of 5.6km. The former is its most recent addition and, at only 2.1 km, is a great option for beginner hikers looking for a stroll. Alternatively, take the Southern trail of 3.5km or simply do the whole shebang for a challenge. We hear that the trails are lined with fixtures of Singapore’s kampung (village) past, with massive native trees scattered along the trail. Keep your eyes peeled for more information in our next Blaze the Trail feature.
Bike the trails
Whether you’re a beginner cyclist or an adrenaline-seeking mountain biker, Chestnut Park is also incredibly cycle-friendly. Select from trails in the Northern and Southern Loop, ranging from easy (gentle slopes and uneven surfaces) to extremely difficult (steep climbs and tricky obstacles). Don’t have a bike of your own? The park will soon feature kiosks for the public to rent their own wheels.
Chestnut Nature Park, Located along Chestnut Avenue and is abutting Central Catchment Nature Reserve, stretches along BKE, from Gali Batu Flyover to Dairy Farm Flyover.