Bukit Mertajam hill is a 443-metre forested peak that dominates the mainland Penang skyline. The main trailhead begins at the Cherok Tok Kun recreational forest at the hill's base, where the forest department maintains a car park and basic facilities. The trail climbs through dense secondary rainforest of dipterocarp and fig trees; the ascent takes around two hours at a moderate pace, and the path is well-marked with concrete steps on the steeper sections.
The summit offers panoramic views across the Penang strait to George Town and the island beyond. On clear days you can pick out the Penang Bridge and the outline of the island's hills. Wildlife on the hill includes long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, and a variety of forest birds. The base area at Cherok Tok Kun has easier walking paths through the park, a children's playground, and picnic shelters — a good option if you are travelling with young children or want something less strenuous.