Hike in the clouds

Huangshan is one of the most famous and well known mountains in China. Commonly referred to as ‘yellow mountain’ it is a popular and well traveled hiking spot for Chinese and expats alike. Located in Anhui province, this has some of the best views I’ve ever witnessed and is well worth a weekend of your time I suggest you get here early to start the hike as at 1864M high it is not just a casual climb. I stayed at a nearby hotel overnight (there are many) and arrived bright eyed and bushy tailed ready to tackle the ascend. The paths up are all regrettably stone steps, which does take some authenticity out of the experience. You can choose to take the cable car up to the top if you wish, that is up to you, however it is perfectly achievable to hike up and down in the same day There can be a large number of people hiking at the same time as you, and it can indeed be a bit of a frustrating experience, but don’t let that put you off, the juice is worth the squeeze. The highlight of the climb up was the workmen carrying sacks of rice up on a donkey, not something you see every day. The stairs are stable and have arm rail for most of the way up, there are plenty of rest stops along the way, and many viewing platforms as ascend into the clouds. The nature going up is not terribly memorable to be honest, but its the views from the top that makes it worthwhile. There are several view points, such as lotus peak, celestial peak and bright peak, each with their own charm and appeal. You could visit all 3 if you liked, the signposts are very straightforward and easy to follow. The view will be radically different depending on the weather that day if it rains in the morning, you’ll likely see the ‘sea of clouds’ and if it s a sunny day you’ll get a view as far as the eye can see. To go back down you again have the option of cable car or you can take the stairs down. Take these carefully as these can cause havoc to your knees and ankles. #gohiking #travel #hikingtrails #china #yellowmountain