Bonobo2005 wrote:hi, yes we have done this hike some months ago with 3 forum members.
The article is from 2004 and the track has changed quite a bit ; actually Singapore - obviously being frustrated that Malayan Railway refuses to sell the land despite the fact that no trains have been running here since 1991 - has accused Malayan Railways to leave the track a complete wilderness, also where it passes HDB estates, condo's and so on and hence being held responsible for dengue outbreaks etc. So Malayan RW has been forced to maintain the land which they started to do seriously so that they can continue to claim the land - of course the steel is put back in original position! Basically the stretch from Teban Gardens towards Clementi Road has now been cleared in more or less advanced state.
That said it is still a very nice and varied hike as you see a lot of Singapore that you would never see otherwise; the tunnels and bridges are still there and the part between Bukit Timah Railway Station and Clementi Road Tunnel is still untouched and simply stunning!
Basically the trek normally focusses on the tracks between Bukit Timah Station and Teban Gardens (Penjuru Road) -2,5 hours, but I went back on my own to discover it continues through industrial parks all the way to the EXXON complex at Shipyard Road! Amazing "expedition" although there's not a lot of nature and a lot of stray dogs.
The surest access is at Penjuru Road, where along the road you will notice a railway signal. From there head East. Starting at Bukit Timah Railway is a more adventurous /appealing idea with some serious railfinding involved, as the access is hidden in the bush and hard to find!
Anyway this is one of Singapore's hiking classics (for how long it lasts) it's a great hike, and I'm sure you guys will have lots of fun!!!
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I can make tomorrow, Sunday.