Top Hiking Trails in Singapore: Nature Guide 2025

Explore the Best Singapore Hiking Trails: Your Ultimate Guide to Nature and Adventure

If you’re looking for the best Singapore hiking trails to connect with nature, get some fresh air, and enjoy scenic views, you’ve come to the right place. Singapore offers a variety of hiking routes and nature trails suitable for all fitness levels, from easy strolls to more challenging treks. Popular spots like the Bukit Timah hiking trail and MacRitchie Reservoir hiking are favorites among locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re searching for hiking parks in Singapore or easy hiking trails Singapore for a relaxing weekend, this guide covers the top trails to help you plan your next outdoor adventure.

Top Hiking Trails to Explore

MacRitchie Reservoir Park

• Terrain: Boardwalks, forest trails, and dirt paths
• Length: Up to 11 km (loop)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Treetop Walk, peaceful reservoir views, long shaded routes through primary forest

Southern Ridges

• Terrain: Elevated walkways, bridges, paved paths
• Length: Approx. 10 km (point to point)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Highlights: Henderson Waves bridge, panoramic views, art installations, connects Mount Faber, Telok Blangah Hill, and Kent Ridge Park

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

• Terrain: Steep inclines, stairs, natural forest trail
• Length: Around 1.2 km to summit, longer with side trails
• Difficulty: Challenging (steep slopes)
• Highlights: Highest natural point in Singapore (163.63m), rich biodiversity, dense tropical rainforest

Labrador Nature Reserve

• Terrain: Boardwalk, paved paths
• Length: Around 2 km
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Coastal views, WWII history, tranquil park atmosphere, lookout decks

Thomson Nature Park

• Terrain: Forest trails, heritage ruins
• Length: 3.8 km network of trails
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Highlights: Abandoned Hainan village ruins, rich wildlife, shaded routes, chance to spot endangered Raffles’ banded langur

Chestnut Nature Park

• Terrain: Gravel, dirt, mountain biking and hiking trails
• Length: Over 5 km hiking trails (North and South loops)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Dual-purpose park for hikers and bikers, forest scenery, less crowded trails

Coney Island

• Terrain: Sandy and paved trails
• Length: Approx. 2.5 km from end to end
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Rustic and untouched charm, bird-watching, casuarina woodlands, eco-bridge access

Rail Corridor

• Terrain: Gravel, flat paths, old railway track
• Length: Around 24 km (North to South)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Highlights: Heritage-rich trail along former KTM railway line, green tunnel effect, Bukit Timah Railway Station and conserved bridges

Beginner-Friendly Trails and Family Outings

Hindhede Nature Park

• Accessibility: Near Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre
• Trail Type: Paved, flat and well-maintained paths
• Safety: Ideal for kids and seniors, with clear signage and railings
• Facilities: Toilets, rest shelters, viewing deck
• Nearby Amenities: Cafés, parking, visitor centre
• Highlights: Scenic Hindhede Quarry, peaceful and short walks for all ages

Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden (Part of Singapore Botanic Gardens)

• Accessibility: Designed specifically for children
• Trail Type: Paved garden paths, interactive zones
• Safety: Fenced-in with child-safe features
• Facilities: Water play area, restrooms, shaded zones
• Nearby Amenities: Food options at Cluny Court and Botanic Gardens MRT
• Highlights: Mini suspension bridge, treehouse, educational stations

Pasir Ris Park Mangrove Boardwalk

• Accessibility: Flat boardwalk trail with stroller-friendly access
• Trail Type: Boardwalk and concrete paths through mangroves
• Safety: Safe railing along boardwalks, gentle terrain
• Facilities: BBQ pits, toilets, playgrounds
• Nearby Amenities: Pasir Ris MRT, Downtown East, food centres
• Highlights: Monitor lizards, mudskippers, and bird-watching tower

Lower Peirce Reservoir Park

• Accessibility: Gentle boardwalk trail through secondary forest
• Trail Type: Boardwalk with minimal elevation
• Safety: Stable walking surface, shaded trail
• Facilities: Benches, bins, water points
• Nearby Amenities: Thomson Plaza, bus stops
• Highlights: Calm lakeside views, peaceful environment, occasional otter sightings

Dairy Farm Nature Park (Wallace Trail)

• Accessibility: Easy trailhead access via public transport
• Trail Type: Forest path with gentle inclines
• Safety: Safe for supervised children, clearly marked trail
• Facilities: Toilets, Wallace Education Centre
• Nearby Amenities: Rail Mall, car park
• Highlights: Educational centre, shaded trails, chance to spot birds and butterflies

Hiking Parks and Nature Reserves

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

• Biodiversity: One of the most biodiverse spots in Singapore with over 840 flowering plants and 500 animal species
• Flora: Dense primary rainforest with towering dipterocarps, figs, and wild ginger
• Fauna: Long-tailed macaques, colugos (flying lemurs), and rare forest birds like the striped tit-babbler
• Conservation Efforts: Protected since 1883, the reserve focuses on rainforest preservation and public education

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

• Biodiversity: Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park, vital for migratory birds and estuarine ecosystems
• Flora: Mangrove species including bakau, nipa palm, and sea hibiscus
• Fauna: Mudskippers, estuarine crocodiles, otters, herons, and migratory shorebirds like whimbrels and sandpipers
• Conservation Efforts: Active monitoring of migratory species and educational outreach on wetland importance

Labrador Nature Reserve

• Biodiversity: Coastal and rocky shore ecosystems supporting intertidal biodiversity
• Flora: Seashore plants such as sea poison trees and mangroves
• Fauna: Fiddler crabs, coastal birds, squirrels, and monitor lizards
• Conservation Efforts: Interpretive boards and ecological trails promote marine heritage awareness

MacRitchie Reservoir Park (Central Catchment Nature Reserve)

• Biodiversity: Part of the largest nature reserve in Singapore with rich rainforest ecology
• Flora: Lush secondary forests and primary forest remnants with native orchids and lianas
• Fauna: Raffles’ banded langurs (critically endangered), greater racket-tailed drongos, and giant forest ants
• Conservation Efforts: Regulated access to sensitive areas like the TreeTop Walk and signage to prevent wildlife feeding

Thomson Nature Park

• Biodiversity: A buffer park that supports wildlife corridors connected to the Central Catchment
• Flora: Regenerating forest with ferns, native shrubs, and fruiting trees
• Fauna: Pangolins, Malayan porcupines, mousedeer, and native birds like the blue-winged pitta
• Conservation Efforts: Purpose-built for conservation awareness, with signs on heritage kampong sites and wildlife protection

Pulau Ubin (Chek Jawa Wetlands)

• Biodiversity: Unique convergence of six major ecosystems including coastal forest, mangroves, and coral rubble
• Flora: Coastal vegetation, pitcher plants, and sea grasses
• Fauna: Wild boars, red junglefowl, mud crabs, and various crabs like the vinegar crab
• Conservation Efforts: Joint NParks and community effort to maintain its natural and cultural heritage without mass urbanisation

Trail Tips: What to Bring and Prepare

Hydration and Snacks

Staying hydrated is essential, especially in Singapore’s humid climate. Bring at least 1 to 2 litres of water per person, depending on trail length and intensity. Consider electrolyte-replacement drinks for longer hikes. Pack light, high-energy snacks like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit to keep your energy up without weighing down your bag.

Footwear and Clothing

Wear proper hiking shoes with good grip, especially on muddy or uneven trails. Avoid slippers or flat-soled shoes. Lightweight, breathable clothing that wicks sweat is ideal. A cap or hat helps with sun protection, and a poncho or light rain jacket is a smart addition in case of sudden rain.

Daypack Essentials

Use a compact backpack to carry your supplies comfortably. Must-haves include:

• A small first-aid kit with plasters, antiseptic wipes, and insect repellent
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• A fully charged phone with map access or a power bank
• Wet wipes or hand sanitiser
• A whistle or emergency contact card for safety

Weather Considerations

Check the weather forecast before heading out. Avoid hiking during thunderstorms or prolonged rain, as some trails may become slippery or even closed. Start early in the day to avoid the midday heat and bring UV-protective accessories.

Trail Etiquette

Practice “Leave No Trace” principles:

• Stay on marked trails to protect native flora
• Don’t feed or disturb wildlife
• Take all litter with you
• Keep noise levels low to preserve the tranquillity for others

Planning and Safety

Always let someone know your hiking plans, especially for longer or less-frequented trails. For unfamiliar routes, use the NParks trail maps or download a hiking app. Solo hikers should avoid isolated areas and always stay alert to surroundings.

Seasonal Hiking: Best Times to Hit the Trails

Understanding Singapore’s Climate

Singapore has a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and temperatures that stay fairly consistent year-round, typically ranging between 25°C to 33°C. However, certain months offer more comfortable and safer hiking conditions than others, especially for outdoor activities like hiking.

Dry Season (February to September)

The dry season is generally the best time for hiking. From February through early September, Singapore experiences relatively lower rainfall and slightly more sunshine. Trails are less muddy, visibility is better for scenic views, and there’s a reduced chance of lightning closures. Early mornings during this period are particularly ideal—cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Northeast Monsoon Season (December to Early March)

While December and January may bring bursts of heavy rain due to the Northeast Monsoon, early mornings or mid-mornings can still offer clear windows for hiking. Trails might be slick, so choose those with boardwalks or paved paths. Waterproof footwear and rain gear are highly recommended if you’re heading out during this time.

Inter-Monsoon Periods (March–April, October–November)

These months come with unpredictable weather—clear skies can quickly give way to thunderstorms. While the trails can be lush and green from recent rainfall, the humidity is intense and afternoon storms are common. Hike early and monitor real-time weather updates.

Tips for Managing the Heat

Singapore’s equatorial heat can be intense, especially during midday. To minimise the risk of heat exhaustion:

• Start your hike before 9am or after 4pm
• Wear light-coloured, breathable clothing
• Take breaks in shaded areas and hydrate often

Lightning and Storm Safety

During stormy periods, many nature reserves and parks will issue lightning risk warnings. Respect trail closures and avoid open or elevated areas during thunderstorm activity. Lightning shelters are available in some larger parks like MacRitchie and Bukit Timah.

What to Watch For Seasonally

Certain parks showcase unique natural highlights in different seasons. For example, migratory bird sightings at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve peak between September and March, while blooming wildflowers and fig trees are more frequent after rain. Keep an eye out for updates from NParks to catch these moments.

Guided Hikes and Community Groups

Exploring with a Guide

For those new to hiking or eager to learn more about Singapore’s biodiversity and terrain, guided hikes are a great option. Several organizations and eco-tour operators offer regular nature walks and educational tours in popular hiking areas like Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, MacRitchie Reservoir, and Labrador Nature Reserve. These guided experiences often include insights into local history, flora, fauna, and conservation efforts, adding depth to your hike.

Educational Nature Walks

Nature Society (Singapore), NParks, and various eco-volunteer groups run regular thematic hikes focused on birds, trees, insects, or native plants. These are suitable for all ages and often led by botanists, wildlife experts, or trained volunteers. Participants can expect to spot monitor lizards, rare birds, and even pitcher plants with the guidance of experienced trail leaders.

Local Hiking Clubs

Singapore has an active hiking community, and many social hiking clubs welcome new members. Groups such as Singapore Hikers, Adventures Unlimited, and Love Hiking Singapore organize regular treks of varying difficulty across the island. These outings are not just for fitness—they’re also about social bonding, learning, and exploring lesser-known paths together.

Family and Youth-Friendly Programs

Certain groups focus on hikes that are family-friendly, with slower pacing and engaging narratives for children. Activities may include mini scavenger hunts, educational games, or storytelling elements tied to Singapore’s nature and heritage. Some are even designed to complement school curricula, offering experiential learning in the great outdoors.

Trail Clean-Up and Eco-Volunteering

Several community-led groups combine hiking with environmental stewardship. Trail clean-up hikes are common, particularly in busier nature reserves. These walks serve a dual purpose—exploring trails while collecting litter and raising awareness about sustainability. Participants often gain a deeper appreciation for the environment while helping maintain the trails for others.

Meeting New People Through Hiking

Joining a group hike is also a great way to meet new people with similar interests. Whether you’re a solo hiker looking for company or someone new to Singapore wanting to make friends, community hikes offer a casual, friendly setting to connect with others. Some groups even host post-hike meals or socials.

Booking and Participation

Many guided hikes and club outings are announced on social platforms like Meetup, Facebook, or Eventbrite. While some are free, others may charge a small fee to cover guide costs or logistics. Signing up early is encouraged, especially for hikes with limited slots or during peak trail seasons.

Hiking Beyond the Trails: Nearby Attractions and Food Stops

MacRitchie Reservoir Park

Before or after your hike around MacRitchie’s famous TreeTop Walk, consider visiting the nearby Windsor Nature Park for a shorter trail or wildlife spotting. Once you’re done, head to the Upper Thomson Road area, where you’ll find a wide variety of food—from hearty prata at The Roti Prata House to local coffee and cakes at One Man Coffee.

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

After scaling Singapore’s highest natural point, reward yourself with a short detour to the nearby Rail Corridor for a scenic walk and photo ops. Then, head to Beauty World Centre or Cheong Chin Nam Road, where you’ll find comfort food ranging from Korean BBQ and hotpot to traditional chicken rice stalls.

Southern Ridges and Henderson Waves

This trail offers more than just nature—after hiking through Mount Faber and crossing the iconic Henderson Waves, you can take the cable car to Sentosa for beachside relaxation. VivoCity at HarbourFront is nearby for a quick cool-down and meal, featuring both casual and upscale dining options.

Labrador Nature Reserve

Combine your hike with a bit of history by exploring the WWII relics around Labrador Park. Then, wind down at Gillman Barracks nearby—a former military camp turned into a contemporary arts enclave with galleries and stylish cafés like Creamier or Handlebar, known for their ice cream and bar bites.

Coney Island and Punggol Waterway Park

After a breezy walk through the rustic trails of Coney Island, venture into The Punggol Settlement, a charming dining cluster by the sea. Enjoy seafood with a view at eateries like House of Seafood or indulge in café fare at Whisk & Paddle along the waterway.

Chestnut Nature Park

Once you’re done with mountain biking or hiking at this less-crowded green space, make a stop at HillV2 mall for refreshments. Whether you’re craving Japanese donburi or a cool bubble tea, it’s a convenient and relaxing way to end the day.

Thomson Nature Park

This peaceful park features ruins of a former Hainan village and forest trails teeming with wildlife. After exploring, drop by Springleaf or Jalan Leban nearby, both lined with casual dining options—great for sampling laksa, zi char, or even artisanal desserts.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

After bird-watching and exploring mangrove boardwalks, head over to the nearby Kranji countryside. You’ll find hidden gems like Bollywood Veggies for farm-to-table meals and Kranji Countryside Farmers’ Market on certain weekends. It’s a unique rural escape just minutes from the nature reserve.

Enjoy the trails!