Bukit Timah Hill

"Let’s start big picture. What’s the vibe here? Less than eight miles from the city center is this 403-acre reserve named after Singapore’s highest hill, Bukit Timah. The reserve is rich in tropical foliage and there are four routes for hikers: two easy, one moderate, and one difficult. There’s also a designated mountain biking trail with some extremely challenging sections. What's everyone here for? People don’t come here for a rewarding view at the summit; they come to immerse themselves in jungle greenery. Was it easy to get around? The park is easy to navigate but the trails can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. The closest you’ll find to peace and quiet is on an early morning weekday when the weather will be (slightly) cooler and if you’re lucky, monkeys, monitor lizards, and colorful birds will be out. The summit is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible but has a steep ascent. All said and done, what—and who—is this best for? This reserve is extremely popular with Singaporeans as it's the closest they have to a real nature escape without traveling too far. It's not ideal for hikers and trekkers looking for a remote trek—most people here are urbanites seeking a break from the steel, glass, and concrete of city life." - Ashlea Halpern