Climb to the peak of the Three Gorges and capture an entire autumn along the Yangtze River!

When the red leaves on both banks overflow the outline of Kuimen, and the river carries the autumn sun, breaking into golden flakes, I step on the stone steps dyed by layers of colorful forests to reach the summit of the Three Gorges—at this moment, I finally understand the grandeur in Li Bai’s words “Leaving Baidi amidst colorful clouds at dawn,” which is actually the most generous gift of autumn. This experience guide, infused with osmanthus fragrance and river breeze, holds my private conversation with the autumn of the Three Gorges. 1. Preparation: Unlock the code for autumn summit climbing - Best time: Mid-October to late November, when red leaves cover the mountains and the river is clear and blue, with morning sea of clouds and amber-colored river surface at dusk. - Clothing advice: Quick-dry clothes layered with a thin down jacket, non-slip hiking shoes are a must, paired with a sun hat and sunglasses (the autumn sun is dazzling). - Essentials: Portable hiking poles, thermos, telephoto camera; those prone to motion sickness should prepare medication in advance (winding mountain roads). 2. Transportation guide: Head to the romantic route of mountains and waters - Public transport: Take the high-speed train from Chongqing to Fengjie Station, then transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus (1 hour/25 RMB), departing daily at 9:00 and 14:00, return at 17:00; buy tickets in advance via the official WeChat account. - Self-driving: Drive 35 km along the dedicated road from Fengjie County, with 3 viewing platforms available for stops; parking fee is 10 RMB per visit. - Hiking route: Classic route is 6 km (800 meters elevation gain); those with average fitness can take the sightseeing bus (30 RMB one way) to Qingyun Ladder, then hike 1.5 km to the summit. 3. Core experiences: Frame autumn within the Three Gorges - Sea of clouds sunrise: Depart before 6:30, view from Tianjing Platform; sunlight pierces through the sea of clouds illuminating the red leaves, river mist like gauze, resembling a flowing oil painting. - Red leaf secret spot: Maple forests on both sides of Qingyun Ladder, red leaves interspersed with pines and cypresses, fallen leaves cover the steps—perfect for capturing autumn atmosphere photos. - River breeze and wave sounds: Overlook the Yangtze from the summit, watch cruise ships create ripples, mountain breeze carries osmanthus fragrance and river scent, the sound of waves and wind heals the soul. - Cultural treasures: Free visit to the Ancient Elephant Museum (Three Gorges ancient elephant fossils), and by the “Kuimen Fu” stone inscription on the summit, listen to local elders sing mountain songs. 4. Food and accommodation: Autumn flavors of the Three Gorges on your palate - Must-try dishes: In Fengjie County, try orange stewed ribs (autumn special), Three Gorges grilled fish, stir-fried cured meat with chili, paired with mixed grain rice to balance flavors. - Specialty snacks: Fengjie cold noodles at the scenic area entrance (10 RMB/bowl, spicy with a hint of sour), roadside sugar-roasted oranges (warm hands and satisfy cravings). - Accommodation recommendations: Chain hotels in the county (around 150 RMB/night), or Three Gorges Yunding homestay near the scenic area (mountain views from the window, some with terraces for stargazing). 5. Tips: Avoid pitfalls and enjoy autumn to the fullest - Travel on weekdays to avoid peak crowds and no need to queue for photos; - Climb slowly and rest often (rest 5 minutes every 200 meters elevation) to avoid exhaustion; - Check the official WeChat account for road condition updates during red leaf season; food prices in the scenic area are high, bring your own snacks and fruit. Standing at the peak of the Three Gorges, watching red leaves dye the mountains and river waves crash against the shore, I realize that autumn in the Three Gorges has both the grandeur of “the great river flowing eastward” and the elegance of “red leaves inscribed with poetry.” This autumn-exclusive beauty is worth your personal journey—after all, some scenery can only be truly understood by being there in person.