Viewpoints and hikes · Above Tubkaek, northwest of Ao Nang
Dragon Crest (Ngorn Nak)
A forest trail of about 3.7 km each way and close to 500 m of climbing, to the viewpoint at the summit of Ngorn Nak.
Access
A real hike
Time to allow
Most of a day on foot, up and back by the same trail
Best time
A dry day, with an early start
Why go
For a viewpoint you reach on your own feet rather than by boat. Of the climbs around Ao Nang, this is a proper hike: long, steady, and a day's commitment.
What you will find
The trail runs about 3.7 km from the entrance to the top, so about 7.4 km there and back, on the same path both ways. It gains close to 500 m on the way, through forest, and it is steady work rather than a stroll.
Getting there
By road to Tubkaek, northwest of Ao Nang, then to the parking at the end of the road, where the trail entrance is. You sign in at the post at the entrance on the way up and sign out on the way down, and there is a last entry time: check it before you set out.
Before you go
Not for children under about ten, nor if you have heart trouble or weak knees: the climb is long and steep, and you come down the same way.
In heavy rain the trail turns into a stream and gets slippery, and the summit is exposed to lightning in a storm. Pit vipers live in the forest: watch where you put your hands and feet.
Allow time to be down before dark, take plenty of water, and carry cash. Sources disagree on the entry fee, some saying there is none, so expect to find out at the post.
Common questions
How long is the Dragon Crest hike?
About 3.7 km each way, so about 7.4 km there and back by the same trail, with close to 500 m of climbing.
Do I have to pay to hike Dragon Crest?
Sources disagree: some say it is free, most recent ones mention a fee paid in cash at the entrance. Carry cash and check at the post.
Is Dragon Crest suitable for children?
Not for children under about ten. The climb is long and steep, and the trail is slippery after rain.