Going for hikes and trails is one of the healthiest activities you can do in your free time. You get to move your body to navigate the route, be one with nature, and, most importantly, you’ll have a good time. Suppose you are at a point where you are sick and tired of being a couch potato and would like to do some physical activity for a change. And going for hikes and trails has piqued your interest.
First of all, good for you for wanting to change your life for the better. Second of all, good news! This article is for you. Keep reading, and you’ll find out the 8 best hikes and trails in Kota Kinabalu 2024 to kick-start your outdoor activities.
What Should I Bring for My Hike?
It seems like you are excited about the hike and trail adventure. But, hold your horses. Make sure you’ve considered the following before you go:
- First Aid Kit, Multi-Tool and Trekking Pole
Going for a hike on the hills or venturing on forest trails opens us to more possibilities of getting injured. Especially when you are still a newbie in the hiking world, you might slip on a muddy trail, accidentally cut yourself on sharp objects, etc. Hence, bringing a safety kit along on your hike is recommended. A small, pre-packaged first aid kit will do you wonders. The multi-tool and trekking pole will help you navigate the trails much quicker, especially challenging trails.
- Water and snacks
Dehydration is a serious thing that no one should take lightly. Make sure to bring enough water for your hike, as hiking can be strenuous. You’ll likely prevent unwanted sickness and hike efficiently when you are hydrated. Snacking on energy bars also refuels your energy to continue your hike until the end.
- Wear Proper Clothing and Footwear
The shoes you wear should be waterproof, have full ankle support, and have good non-slip soles. As for clothing, check your weather forecast first before going hiking– will it be sunny? Will it be raining? Based on this, you can choose which clothing fits best for the day of your hike. Generally, you want to wear moisture-wicking, breathable clothing. And if you can, wear a long sleeve shirt and track pants.
8 Best Hikes and Trails in Kota Kinabalu 2024
1. Kopungit Hill Hiking Trail
Bukit Kopungit Hiking Trail is among the most famous hills for hiking in Kota Kinabalu. Not far from the city, this hike will be at the normal to moderate difficulty level, depending on your fitness level. Upon your hiking endeavour, you can spot many caves and tunnels that the Japanese dug during WW2. Give yourself a fun adventure by hiking at Bukit Kopungit Hiking Trail now.
Address: 88200 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
2. Beard Hill
Depending on where you are in your hiking skill, Beard Hill or Bukit Janggut trails to the peak can be considered easy to intermediate level in terms of hiking difficulty. Many decorations along the trail can be found. As a result, people come here not only for hiking purposes but also for photography purposes. Even so, nothing beats the stunning view you’ll get once you’ve reached the top of Beard Hill.
Address: Malawa, Sepanggar Bay Road, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
3. Tirig Hill
Situated in Lapasan village, Tirig Hill is generally considered easy and perfect for beginner hikers. The trail leading to the peak is filled with large roots and stairs. But some areas are steeper. Exploring this hill allows you to witness vast flora and insects. It’s a nice way to tune yourself with nature.
Address: Kampung Lapasan, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
4. Botak Hill
If you are looking for a moderate to challenging hike, Botak Hill is your way to go. Some of the trails are steep, so be careful when you arrive in those areas. On average, it’ll take about an hour and 15 minutes to reach the peak. And when you are at the peak, boy, oh, boy, the scenery is breathtaking. Make sure to save space in your phone memory because you’ll want to take many pictures here.
Address: 89200 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
5. Padang Hill Hiking Trail
Located in Tun Fuad Stephens Park, Padang Hill Hiking Trail offers hike enthusiasts an amazing hiking adventure. The hike is relatively easy, and you certainly get a good workout from it. You are approaching Padang Hill’s peak if you see a hilltop pyramid. The view there is splendid. You’ll be lost for words of how beautiful the scene is from the peak.
Operating Hours: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm (Daily)
Address: 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
6. Karambunai Red Hill
The Karambunai Red Hill or better known as Bukit Merah Karambunai is very popular as a hiking trail. According to many hikers, the hiking trail is not difficult. Perfect for those who are just trying out hiking activities. And just like at Beard Hill, this trail is filled with decorations and small hunts. Making it an Instagrammable worthy place.
Address: 89200 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
7. Eagle Hill
Eagle Hill, or Bukit Helang, is located in the Kebagu village. This hill is easily conquered, as many newbie hikers have little to no problem hiking it. There are 2 peaks on this hill. The first one is 0.87 KM from the starting point. In contrast, the second peak is 1.5 KM further. Eagle Hill is wealthy in different species of flora and fauna, so hiking here allows you to explore them. On the second peak, you’ll have a million Ringgit views- on one side, you can see the west coast, while on the other, you can see Mount Kinabalu. You can contact the Bukit Helang crew to inquire more about Eagle Hill.
Operating Hours: 6:00 am – 6:30 pm (Daily)
Address: 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Phone No: 019-980 9090
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bukithelang/?locale=ms_MY
8. Signal Hill Trail – Bottom
Conquering the Signal Hill Trail – Bottom allows you to reach the Signal Hill Observatory Tower, which is at the highest point of Kota Kinabalu. The trail leading up to the tower is not difficult at all, as continuous flights of stairs in the forest enable you to reach the peak easily. Once you’ve reached the tower, savour the panoramic view of Kota Kinabalu and the sunset or sunrise. It is gorgeous.
Address: Jalan Dewan, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Google Map: Navigate Now
Google Reviews: Here
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Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.com.my. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
