Explore With Alain

Starting from Bai Yun hotel, we enter the Grand Canyon by the north entrance and exit by the south one.

This hike explore paths around Yangjiajie to various sightseeings, then finally gets you down the mountain to the bus station. At the time of writing (sept. 25), Tianbo Mansion is closed for renovation. The first hundreds meter of the path down the mountain can be a little bit scary because of the falling rocks. Also the second path down the mountain (to the south east) is closed. Don’t waster your time going that direction if you don’t want to check the sightseeings. After that it’s peaceful and quiet, just a little bit slippery because of moss.

Going down the Tianzi mountain using the Ten-Mile Gallery trail.

This hike starts from Huangshi village, up the mountain, and finishes at the end of the Golden Whip Stream path. At the time of writing (sept. 2025), there are no alternative path to climb up Yanjiajie. The other path has collapsed due to strong rains.

The main trail to hike up the mountain to Huangshi village (which is not a village by the way). Most people take the cable car, so you’ll be quite alone enjoying the nature and the sightseeings.

# 🏞️ Mount Heng (衡山, Hunan) 📍 Location: Hengyang, Hunan Province, China 📏 Distance: ~24 km round trip ⏱️ Time: ~7–8.5 hours (depending on pace and breaks) ⬆️ Elevation gain: ~1,200–1,300 m 🥾 Difficulty: Moderate to Hard (long distance and steady stair climb) 🗺️ Route type: Out & back (same path up and down) ## 📌 Starting Point * South Gate Visitor Center (Nanyue, 衡山南门) * Elevation at start: ~120 m * The trail begins with paved paths and quickly turns into long stone staircases leading toward the temples. ## 🚶 Route Breakdown * 0–5 km (Forest Approach): Gentle ascent through shady forest, dotted with small shrines and pavilions. Good warm-up section. * 5–10 km (Steeper Staircase): Continuous climb, often steep. Several small kiosks appear here — useful for a drink or snack. * 10–12 km (Summit Ridge): More open terrain with views over the valley. The last push brings you to the South Peak Temple (Nantianmen) at ~1,200 m. The summit area is busy with pilgrims and offers panoramic views. * 12–24 km (Return Descent): Same path down. The endless stairs are tough on the knees. ## 🌄 Highlights * Sacred atmosphere: temples, incense, and local pilgrims all along the way. * Scenic mix: forest shade, mountain ridges, and wide summit views. * Cultural immersion: the climb feels like both a hike and a pilgrimage. ## 💡 Practical Tips * Start Early: Begin before 8 am to avoid crowds and midday heat. * Food & Water: There are plenty of supplies sellers on the route (500ml water from 3CNY to 6 CNY at the top). * Gear: Good shoes essential; trekking poles help for the descent. * Weather: The summit is often foggy — clear views are best in the morning. Weather can change fast. * Fitness: Long but straightforward; main challenge is endurance on the stairs. ## 📝 Summary Climbing Mount Heng is a rewarding full-day adventure that combines physical effort with cultural discovery. æAt 24 km and nearly 1,300 m of gain, it’s a solid challenge — but the temples, atmosphere, and views make it one of Hunan’s must-do hikes.