MacRitchie Reservoir running is SCENIC! I had always wanted to try trail running around MacRitchie Reservoir. When Nick jio (invited) a few Dads, I jump on the opportunity.
Beforehand, I had came across many wonderful photos of the waterway, boardwalks and the views from Jelutong Tower. Love the cloud’s reflection off the waterbody!
The first question. Run clockwise or anti-clockwise?
If you are new to trail running, do an anti-clockwise, starting from the carpark..
Follow the markers in the direction of Tree Top Walk, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, Jelutong Tower.
There are many slopes and rocks to slow you down within the first 4 km.
The pebbles are slippery, run carefully or you might fall.
The last 3 km are on scenic boardwalk.
Look bamboos! We were busy exploring our surroundings too.
We detoured and climb up Jelutong tower, the climb is tiring after our 6 km route. But the view from the top is worth it 🙂
At the 7 or 8 km mark (estimated), you will “exit” the woods and come to this waterbody! VERY NICE!
This area is adjacent to Singapore Island Country Club. Can we wade inside the pool?
The whole MacRitchie Reservoir running route is about 11 to 12 Km. I was flat from 8 or 9 km mark onwards, and had to walk back all the way.
Mental note : My fitness has a lot of catch-up!
If you had started clockwise, the last few kilometers will be super tough!
Anyway, we soon reach the performing stage near the carpark. Many student would be familiar with the zig-zag bridge as they run in their school’s cross-country run.
We saw more tourist families (and monkeys) than Singaporean families. Hope more will go out and enjoy the beautiful scenic views at MacRitchie Reservoir! The boardwalk is stroller and wheelchair friendly too.
The best thing about running is exploring new corners and connectors. To run with a buddy is a bonus 🙂
MacRitchie Reservoir running will start from the multi-storey carpark, hourly rate applies. More details are available on Nparks website.
Check out Nick’s cool Strava mapping here. You may wish to explore Tree Top Walk too, refer our previous experience here.