Singapore’s Southern Ridges

Singapore’s Southern Ridges

Singapore’s Southern Ridges <strong*hiking trail is a 10km trail that spans across a series of hills and ridges, offering breathtaking views of the city-state and its surrounding waters. The trail features a canopy walk and the iconic Henderson Waves bridge, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. To make the most of your hike, plan to visit during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is not too harsh, and the temperature is more bearable. The Southern Ridges hiking trail is also a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, with over 100 species of birds and 30 species of butterflies calling the area home.

The trail is well-marked and well-maintained, with clear signs and maps to guide you along the way. However, it’s still important to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent to protect yourself from the elements. You should also wear comfortable hiking shoes and lightweight clothing to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable hike.

Getting There

To get to the Southern Ridges, take the MRT to the Holland Village or HarbourFront stations, and then take a short taxi ride or bus to the trailhead. You can also drive to the trailhead, but be aware that parking is limited, and you may need to park at a nearby car park and walk to the trailhead.

Alternatively, you can take a guided tour of the Southern Ridges, which can provide you with a deeper understanding of the area’s history, geology, and wildlife. Guided tours can be booked in advance through the National Parks Board or through a private tour operator.

Trail Etiquette

When hiking the Southern Ridges, be sure to follow all trail signs and regulations, and be respectful of other hikers and the environment. This includes staying on the designated trail, not littering, and not disturbing the wildlife. You should also be mindful of your noise levels and avoid playing loud music or making excessive noise, as this can disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of the trail.

In addition, be sure to follow all safety guidelines and precautions, including bringing plenty of water and sunscreen, and being aware of your surroundings at all times. It’s also a good idea to let someone know your hiking plans and estimated return time, in case of an emergency.

Henderson Waves Bridge

The Henderson Waves bridge is a 274-meter-long pedestrian bridge that connects the Mount Faber Park to the Telok Blangah Hill Park. The bridge is designed to resemble a wave, with a series of curved and undulating sections that provide stunning views of the surrounding area. The bridge is also equipped with LED lights that illuminate the bridge at night, making it a popular spot for photography and romantic strolls.

To access the Henderson Waves bridge, take the Mount Faber cable car to the Mount Faber Park, and then follow the signs to the bridge. You can also hike to the bridge from the Telok Blangah Hill Park, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area and the chance to spot wildlife such as monkeys and birds.

Canopy Walk

The canopy walk is a 1.3km-long elevated walkway that takes you through the forest canopy of the Southern Ridges. The walkway is 18 meters above the ground and provides stunning views of the surrounding trees and wildlife. The canopy walk is also a great spot for birdwatching, with many species of birds calling the area home.

To access the canopy walk, take the Forest Walk Trail from the HortPark, and then follow the signs to the canopy walk. The walk is relatively easy and takes about 30 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how much time you spend taking in the views.

Wildlife and Flora

The Southern Ridges are home to a wide variety of wildlife and flora, including monkeys, birds, and butterflies. The area is also home to many species of trees and plants, including the native species of dipterocarps and figs. To spot wildlife, be sure to bring binoculars and keep a safe distance from the animals, as they can be wild and unpredictable.

The Southern Ridges are also a great spot for photography, with many opportunities to capture stunning views and wildlife shots. Be sure to bring a camera and tripod to help you stabilize your shots and avoid camera shake.

Conclusion

Before you embark on your hike, make sure to check the weather forecast and trail conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike. It’s also a good idea to bring a first aid kit and know what to do in case of an emergency. Finally, be sure to respect the environment and wildlife, and follow all trail signs and regulations to minimize your impact on the area. Remember, the Southern Ridges are a protected area, and it’s up to us to help preserve and conserve this beautiful and unique ecosystem for future generations.

📷 Photos: Felix (Unsplash), Felix (Unsplash)