Singapore’s outdoor scene keeps evolving, with new trails opening and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a casual walker or an avid trail runner, these routes offer fresh challenges and scenic variety. But no matter where you go, having the right trail shoes is key for safety, comfort, and fun.
Chestnut Nature Park
- North Loop (~3.5 km, easy to moderate): Gentle dirt and gravel paths through secondary rainforest, ending at a lookout tower. Perfect for beginners and casual strolls.
- South Loop (~2.1 km, moderate): More rugged with rocky trails and small climbs, ideal for those wanting a bit more challenge. Combining both loops takes about 1.5–2 hours.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
- Coastal Trail (1.3 km, easy to moderate): Scenic boardwalks over mangroves, with birdwatching pods like Eagle Point and Kingfisher Pod.
- Forest Trail (0.3 km, easy): Shaded gravel walk linking visitor centre to mid-canopy boardwalk.
- Mid-Canopy Walk (0.15 km, easy): Elevated bridge among lush foliage, great for photos.
- Migratory Bird Trail (1.95 km, easy to moderate): Loop around tidal ponds with wildlife hides and Aerie Tower — perfect for spotting herons, egrets, and monitor lizards.
Start early for the best wildlife viewing and always stay on designated trails.
MacRitchie Reservoir
Singapore’s classic rainforest loop, featuring jungle canopy walks, the famous TreeTop Walk, and muddy patches after rain. Moderate difficulty due to natural uneven surfaces and elevation changes.
While you are there, you can enjoy the other latest developments:
- Submerged Boardwalk: Experience walking on water with the newly constructed submerged boardwalk along the reservoir edge, allowing closer interaction with the aquatic environment.
Canoeing & Kayaking Facilities: A new building caters to canoeing and kayaking activities, featuring storage areas and rental services.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Steep, rocky stairs and shaded trails to Singapore’s highest natural point. Rated moderate to strenuous — ideal for hill training and those comfortable with technical footing.
Southern Ridges
A 10km green corridor linking Mount Faber, Telok Blangah Hill, and Kent Ridge Park, featuring canopy bridges and city views — mostly easy to moderate, with paved paths and gentle elevation changes.
Popular Nearby & Regional Hikes
For those craving adventure beyond Singapore, the region offers stunning options like Bali’s iconic Mount Batur — a moderate to strenuous sunrise volcano hike with steep ascents and volcanic gravel. Penang National Park in Malaysia offers moderate coastal and rainforest trails, while East Java’s Mount Arjuno is a strenuous climb with rugged terrain. These destinations demand sturdy, reliable footwear suited to diverse and often technical terrain.
🥾 Why Good Trail Shoes Make All the Difference
Trails challenge your feet differently than city roads or tracks. Expect slippery mud, roots, rocks, uneven surfaces, and wet conditions. Proper trail shoes offer:
- Strong grip with lugged outsoles for traction on slippery or loose terrain
- Cushioned midsoles that absorb impact on rocks and hard surfaces
- Rock plates or reinforced soles for protection against sharp objects
- Water resistance or breathability to handle tropical weather changes
- Secure fit to prevent blisters and foot fatigue
Wearing road running shoes on trails can lead to injury or discomfort, so upgrading your footwear is a smart move.
🆕 Brooks’ Latest Trail Shoe Recommendations
Brooks Caldera 8
- Plush cushioning with DNA LOFT v3 for long-lasting comfort
- TrailTack Green Rubber outsole for superior grip on mud, gravel, and wet rocks
- Breathable mesh upper with protective overlays and rock plate
- Best for: Chestnut South Loop, MacRitchie, Bukit Timah, Mount Batur, Penang, and regional hikes
Brooks Divide 4 GTX
- Road-to-trail hybrid with TrailTack outsole and waterproof GORE-TEX
- Balanced cushioning, ideal for mixed surfaces and wet conditions
- Best for: Chestnut North Loop, Sungei Buloh boardwalks, Southern Ridges, and coastal walks
Brooks Cascadia 18
- Proven Trail Adapt System with DNA LOFT cushioning for stability and comfort
- Aggressive lug pattern for confident grip on technical trails
- Durable and reliable for varied trail conditions
- Ideal for: Daily trail runners and multi-terrain adventures
Ready to explore?
Step up your trail game with footwear designed specifically for Southeast Asia’s humid, lush, and often slippery trails.
Let’s Run There.
Follow @brooksrunningsg for more running tips, local routes, and exclusive drops.
