In a city defined by its skyline, the Southern Ridges is a reminder that Singapore has a wilder, greener side too. This ten-kilometre trail connects Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, HortPark, Kent Ridge Park, and Labrador Nature Reserve through a series of elevated walkways, forested paths, and some of the most photogenic bridges on the island. It's free, it's accessible, and it's one of the best outdoor experiences Singapore has to offer. Here's how to do it right.
The Route: Where to Start and Which Way to Walk
You can walk the Southern Ridges in either direction, but we recommend starting from Kent Ridge MRT station and heading west toward Mount Faber. This way, you tackle the more rugged, forested sections first while you're fresh, and finish with the dramatic elevated walkways and the iconic Henderson Waves bridge as a grand finale. The full walk takes roughly three to four hours at a comfortable pace, including stops for photos and water breaks.
From Kent Ridge MRT, it's a short uphill walk to Kent Ridge Park, where the trail begins. The first section winds through secondary rainforest and past the Reflections at Bukit Chandu museum, which tells the story of the Malay Regiment's heroic last stand during World War Two. It's a sobering and worthwhile detour that takes about thirty minutes.
The Highlights Along the Way
After Kent Ridge, the trail passes through HortPark, Singapore's gardening hub. HortPark is a pleasant spot to rest — there are benches, water fountains, and a small café. The themed gardens here are surprisingly beautiful, especially the Butterfly Garden, which is at its best in the morning when the insects are most active.
From HortPark, you enter the Alexandra Arch, a striking curved bridge that marks the transition into the Forest Walk section. This elevated steel walkway winds through the canopy of Telok Blangah Hill, putting you eye-level with the treetops. It's a surreal experience — you're walking through a tropical forest canopy, yet you can see HDB blocks and container ships in the distance.
The undisputed star of the trail is Henderson Waves, a 274-metre-long pedestrian bridge that undulates in a wave pattern between Telok Blangah Hill and Mount Faber. At 36 metres above Henderson Road, it's the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore. The wooden alcoves built into the wave structure are perfect for sitting and catching your breath — and for photos, obviously. Visit around sunset for the best light.
Mount Faber and Beyond
The trail ends at Mount Faber Park, where you can reward yourself with a drink at Faber Peak, the hilltop dining destination accessible by the Sentosa cable car line. If you still have energy, you can continue down to VivoCity and Sentosa via the Marang Trail, making it a full day out.
Practical Tips for the Walk
Start early. Singapore's heat and humidity are no joke, and the trail has limited shade in some sections. We recommend beginning by seven a.m. to catch the cooler morning temperatures and finish before the midday sun hits hardest. Bring at least a litre of water per person — there are refill points at HortPark, but they're sparse elsewhere. Wear proper walking shoes with grip; the forest sections can be slippery after rain. Sunscreen and insect repellent are non-negotiable.
The trail is well-signposted and paved throughout, making it suitable for most fitness levels. However, there are some steep inclines, particularly around Kent Ridge, so it's not fully wheelchair-accessible.
Where to Eat After
After the walk, head down to HarbourFront or VivoCity for a well-earned meal. The food court at VivoCity has plenty of options, or if you're feeling more celebratory, book a table at Peppermint at Park Hotel for a solid buffet lunch. You've earned it.
The Southern Ridges is proof that you don't need to leave Singapore to feel like you've escaped it. Lace up your shoes and go.
