10 Best trails and hikes in China

On China's vast land lie countless breathtaking hiking trails. These routes not only test hikers' physical strength and willpower but also offer a feast for the eyes and soul. Let’s explore ten classic domestic hiking trails and experience the wonders of nature and the charm of hiking.

Tiger Leaping Gorge Hike: Where Thrills Meet Beauty

Located at the junction of Lijiang and Shangri-La in Yunnan Province, Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest canyons in the world. Hikers traverse steep mountain paths, with the roaring Jinsha River on one side and towering snow-capped mountains on the other. Though only 23 kilometers long, the trail’s thrills leave a lasting impression. As one hiker put it: "The body endures hell, while the eyes feast in paradise." The best hiking season is from April to June and September to October.

Kalajun Grassland Trek: Experience Tianshan’s Most Stunning Scenery

Hailed as "Tianshan’s most beautiful hiking and photography route," Kalajun Grassland in Ili, Xinjiang, stretches 120 kilometers across northern and southern Tianshan, encompassing grasslands, dense forests, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and lakes. Every summer, when the alpine meadows burst into bloom, hikers can cross five major grasslands in one journey, savoring unparalleled beauty. Suitable for beginner hikers, the optimal time to visit is from May to August.

Meili Snow Mountain Kora: Immerse in Tibetan Culture and Natural Beauty

Situated in Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, Meili Snow Mountain is a sacred site for Tibetan Buddhism. Following the kora (pilgrimage) route, hikers enjoy panoramic views of glaciers, canyons, waterfalls, and primeval forests. With moderate difficulty, it’s ideal for novice outdoor enthusiasts. The best hiking periods are April to June and September to November.

Changpinggou to Bibenggou Trek: Feel the Charm of the "Oriental Alps"

Starting from Changpinggou in Siguniangshan Town, Sichuan, and ending in Bibenggou, this trail is hailed as one of "China’s Top Ten Classic Hiking Routes." Passing through the "Oriental Alps" – Siguniangshan Mountain – and the scenic Bibenggou, hikers experience dramatic natural changes from low to high altitudes in just a few days. The best time to hike is September to October.

Southern Taihang Trek: Admire the Majestic Mountains of Central China

Located northwest of Xinxiang City, Henan, Southern Taihang is the most stunning section of the Taihang Mountains. Boasting diverse trails, it offers spectacular views of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and sheer cliffs. The traverse between Shiziling (the highest peak) and Wangmangling (the second-highest) is particularly thrilling and breathtaking. The optimal hiking season is mid-September to late November.

Kailash Kora: Pilgrimage to Tibet’s Sacred Mountain

In Ngari Prefecture, Tibet, Mount Kailash is a sacred site for Tibetan Buddhism, Hinduism, and Bon. Hikers circle the sacred mountain along the kora route, experiencing religious sanctity and natural grandeur. With high difficulty, it requires prior plateau hiking experience. The best times to visit are April to June and September to October.

Kulagangri Hike: Explore Tibet’s Hidden Gem

Located in Lhozhag County, Shannan Prefecture, Tibet, Kulagangri is Tibet’s best introductory outdoor route. Combining the grandeur and challenge of Nepal’s EBC with Shannan’s unique grace, it allows hikers to get up close to snow-capped mountains and glaciers, and marvel at the vast "blue ocean" of lakes. The optimal hiking periods are January to May and October to December.

Lock Trail Trek: Discover the Hidden Shangri-La

Named after American explorer Joseph Rock, the Locke Trail starts in Muli Tibetan Autonomous County, Liangshan Prefecture, Sichuan, and ends in Yading Village, Daocheng County. Preserving its primitive natural landscape, the trail takes hikers deep into three sacred mountains, offering "breathtakingly beautiful" scenery. With high difficulty, the best time to hike is September to October.

Medog Hike: Challenge Tibet’s Last Hidden Frontier

Once China’s last county without road access, Medog in southeastern Tibet features trails crossing primeval forests, snow-capped meadows, alpine canyons, and chain suspension bridges. Hailed as "China’s Top Hiking Route," it lets hikers experience temperature variations from alpine tundra to tropical rainforest. The best hiking seasons are May to June and September to November.

Gongga Grand Circuit: Witness the Full Splendor of "King of Sichuan’s Mountains"

Standing in Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan, Mount Gongga has a main peak of 7,556 meters, making it Sichuan’s highest mountain. The Gongga Grand Circuit offers hikers a 360-degree view of this majestic "King of Sichuan’s Mountains." With high difficulty, it requires plateau hiking experience. The optimal time to visit is June to November.

Each of these hiking trails promises an unforgettable experience. They not only test physical strength and willpower but also deliver a feast for the eyes and soul. As one hiker said: "Hiking is the closest way to connect with your body and soul. As your footsteps move farther from the hustle and bustle, your mind draws closer to your true self." Pack your bags, step onto these classic trails, and immerse yourself in nature’s wonders and the charm of hiking.