The moment you hear the words “Dairy Farm Nature Park”, you may be a little confused – Singapore has cows? But no, this nature park got its name from a farm that used to stand here, and is now a spot for nature buffs to get their dose of fresh air in the West.
Whether you’re a die-hard nature enthusiast or a casual park-goer looking for a rejuvenating hike, this park is worth the visit for all it has to offer.
Dairy Farm Nature Park was initially a parcel of land where English naturalist Dr. Alfred Russell Wallace did his fieldwork. As part of his research, he studied the natural history of the Malay Archipelago, and also collected over 700 species of beetles in the Dairy Farm area. His discoveries have since been honoured in the Wallace Education Centre.
In 1929, the land was acquired by Cold Storage and transformed into a dairy farm. Cows from Europe were flown in, and this was where fresh milk was produced for the Singapore population.
The place was eventually converted to a vegetable farm in the 1970s and subsequently into the current park that’s open to the public. It is a protected nature park and home to a diverse ecosystem, including flora species like Mock Lemon, Turkey Berry, Ivy Gourd, and Creeping Cucumber.
Take the Downtown Line and alight at Hillview MRT station. The entrance to Dairy Farm Nature Park is located at Exit A. Simply follow the sign stating “Wallace Trail” and you’ll get to the park. You can also drive as there are 2 car parks with plenty of lots. Do note that parking is not free – rates go at $0.60/30 minutes.
Image credits: @mark9plus1 via Instagram
Comprising paved pathways and jungle tracks, the newly-extended Wallace Trail is the main attraction of Dairy Farm Nature Park. This 2.2kmtrail is suitable for all ages and fitness levels as it’s generally flat.
You can find secret “artefacts” along the way, such as remnants of an old hut that’s overgrown with greenery. Birdwatchers and photographers would also be happy to know that wildlife such as the vibrant Crimson Sunbird and even the rarely-sighted Slender Squirrel can be spotted here.
Image credit: @clemenceyeo via Instagram
Midway through your walk, you’ll come across a viewing deck that boasts unhampered views of the dense foliage and forest canopy.
Getting there: For those driving, you can access the trail via either Carpark A or B. From here, you’ll be able to find the path towards the famous Singapore Quarry and Wallace Education Centre.
Most hikers usually access Bukit Timah Hill from Hindhede Road, but experienced trekkers say the Dairy Farm Loop offers a less crowded route.
Image credit: @kenichiro_chan via Instagram
If you’re looking for a challenging hiking trail that will test your limits, you’ll want to give the Dairy Farm Loop a try. The 1km-long trail brings you to the Bukit Timah Hill summit, known as the highest point in Singapore.
The trail is classified ‘difficult’ by NParks, so it’s suitable for those with a little more experience. You will have to ascend steep steps surrounded by thick vegetation before you can reach the iconic Bukit Timah Summit rock.
Getting there: You can access the Dairy Farm Loop from Carpark B, near Wallace Education Centre.
Image credit: National Park Boards
If mountain biking is up your alley, you will enjoy the thrilling Bukit Timah Mountain Bike Trail. This 6km mountain bike trail is perfect for experienced mountain bikers to challenge themselves with steep descents and rocky terrains amid dense forestry.
You’ll truly feel like you’re on an adventure as you ride through a narrow tunnel or make your way up dirt trails cut along the edge of the hill.
Getting there: The trail can be accessed from both Carpark A and B.
Image credit: @charissasasaa via Instagram
At Singapore Quarry, you can witness striking views of the water-filled former quarry – not a common sight for those of us too caught up in the concrete jungle life.
The star of Dairy Farm Nature Park, the quarry is a popular spot for birdwatchers to spot endangered birds like kingfishers and dollarbirds. Nature lovers can also find durian and mango trees, as well as flying lemurs and pangolins.
Stork-billed kingfisher at Singapore Quarry.
Image credit: @johnathanlivingstonsea via Instagram
Getting there: You can easily access the Singapore Quarry via the Jalan Asas entrance, behind Rail Mall. Else, walking along the Wallace Trail past Carpark A will eventually bring you to the quarry. Those who prefer a more straightforward stroll can start from Carpark A directly.
Opening hours:8.30am-5.30pm, Daily
Image credit: @comewalkwithjen via Instagram
Just like the Singapore Quarry, Dairy Farm Quarry is another former quarry that has long been filled in with land. Instead of a lake, it’s now a large field that would be perfect for a quaint picnic or a quick kickaround with a soccer ball, complemented with dramatic towering cliffs as a backdrop.
Thrill-seekers would also be familiar with this vast rock, frequented by climbers who flex their skills here.
Getting there: You can reach this spot via the Bukit Timah Mountain Bike Trail, or visit it en route to Singapore Quarry from Carpark B.
Don’t miss the 2.2m-tall walk-through display of Sir Wallace’s book, “The Malay Archipelago” for a quirky photo while you’re here.
Image credit: NParks
True to its name, this centre features an exhibition on Sir Alfred Wallace and his discoveries, perfect for nature enthusiasts and curious young minds to learn about nature in Singapore.
Knowledge is not all you will walk away with, because you can take quirky shots at the jungle-themed trick-eye wall, and play a biodiversity and conservation-themed video game.
The entire gallery is sectioned into 4 interactive zones that are filled with infographics, 3D models, science experiments, and volunteer booths.
Getting there: From Carpark B, head up the Wallace Trail and walk past the Dairy Farm Loop to get to Wallace Education Centre.
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 8.30am-5pm (Closed on Mondays)
One Million Trees Movement.
Image credit: National Parks Board
Singapore’s very first community nursery can also be found here – volunteers can help nurture endangered native plants by cultivating them from seeds. If you don’t live under a rock, chances are you would’ve heard of the One Million Trees movement, and efforts like these contribute loads to this campaign.
For those planning to visit the walking trails, do bring along mosquito repellent and an umbrella to shield yourself from the sun and potential rain. You can also pack some snacks from home as there are no F&B establishments at the park, aside from the vending machine at Carpark B where you can get cold drinks.
Alternatively, you can head to the nearby Rail Mall to get food. The mall has a slew of restaurants including Hitoyoshi Yakiniku, BLooiE’s Roadhouse, and New Teck Kee Chicken Rice. While you’re there, visit the washroom to empty your bladder. There are 2 toilets at the park, located at Carpark B and the Wallace Education Centre, but limited bathroom stalls.
Whether you’re a fitness junkie or just looking for a chill time amongst greenery, Dairy Farm Nature Park has trails for everyone to immerse in nature and take lots of memorable photos for the ‘gram. The park is also a great place to bring the whole family if you’re looking for things to do this weekend.
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Article originally published on 7th February 2021 by Megan Khoe. Last updated by Joycelyn Yeow on 16th April 2024.
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