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Guide To MacRitchie Reservoir: 6 Things To Do Besides The TreeTop Walk

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Nia Sarah •  Jun 15, 2021

It's time for a well-deserved respite away from the bustling city this Phase 3. What better way to rejuvenate than to go on a hike and spend some time outdoors? With so many hiking trails in Singapore to explore, a certain popular location might come to mind - MacRitchie Reservoir! The park is known for its treetop walk and famous spots to take pictures for the IG feed, but many of us may not know that there are plenty of other activities to do here. The TreeTop Walk is also temporarily closed as part of Covid-19 safe distancing measures, so that's why we have come up with this guide to include 5 other things to do at MacRitchie Reservoir apart from The TreeTop Walk ?

1. Kayak at MacRitchie Reservoir

Credit: Prince Miranda on Facebook

MacRitchie Reservoir is Singapore’s largest nature reserve, so why not get in the waters while you're there? The calm waters, set against the backdrop of the abundant rainforest will make you forget that you’re even in Singapore for a moment! You can rent your kayaks ($15 per hour) from Paddle Lodge by the Singapore Canoe Federation. While you’re here, try to spot nature enthusiasts doing some fishing, hiking or even bird-watching ? Paddle Lodge also has an outlet at Pandan Reservoir in the West! Located near Pandan Gardens and Teban Gardens, Pandan Reservoir is a quiet space for recreational activities.

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2. Visit Jelutong Tower

You may not be able to view the sights from the TreeTop Walk, but with this tower located within the park, you'll be able to discover new sights from a different height ?The Jelutong Tower is situated in the West of the Central Catchment Nature Reserve (CCNR) and you can follow Route 4 (Yellow Trail) to get to this hidden gem, though the distance to get to the tower is longer than TreeTop Walk by 500 metres. After climbing up its 7 levels of stairs, you'll get a breathtaking view to the lush greenery that surrounds you ?

3. Hop on the Zig Zag Bridge

Credit: Airlaxy on Twitter

The Zig Zag Bridge looks best from above, but if you don't have that kind of camera resource, it's still an aesthetic bridge that lets you take pictures with the glistening water backdrop! Follow Route 2 (Purple Trail) to get here and you can even use the wider bends for your rest area. You can also cross the reservoir and get to a different trail through this bridge.

4. Cross a submerged bridge

Credit: PUB on Facebook

The 40-metre bridge on Route 2 (Purple Trail) gives you a little cooling sensation for the toes after a long hike. During the rainier season where there's higher rainfall, the Submerged Bridge gets covered in ankle-deep water that lets you have some fun as you splash across. Do be careful of the slippery wood and take note to bring extra socks if you're planning on going in barefoot! ?

5. Grab a bite at Mushroom Cafe

Credit: Nparks

The halal-certified Mushroom Cafe lets you take a well-deserved break with meals, snacks and drinks after all that hiking. As you make your way back out of the park, get your hearty meals at this cosy open cafe located near the park entrance. They serve affordable comfort dishes for their daily breakfast like laksa ($1.50), Nasi Lemak ($2) and Mee Siam ($2) ?

6. Catch the sunrise

Even if you're not an early riser, you'll definitely want to rise early to catch the sunrise from MacRitchie Reservoir. Overlooking the waters, the beautiful landscape with hues of orange and pink makes the perfect backdrop for your next post on IG ?

With that, it's time to plan your next visit to MacRitchie Reservoir! Share this with your friends and family to let them know!