Luniao Mountain

Great hiking spot near Hangzhou: Luniao Mountain Luniao Mountain is located in Luniao Town, Yuhang District, Hangzhou, with an altitude of 869 meters. It is one of the top ten peaks in Hangzhou. The top of the mountain is characterized by huge rocks and continuous alpine meadows, with a wide view, and you can see the peaks of Yaotou Mountain and Hongtao Mountain in the Tianmu Mountains. It has not been overdeveloped, retaining its natural wildness, and the vegetation changes with the altitude, presenting a layered landscape of bamboo forests, cedar forests, shrubs, and meadows. ### **Transportation Guide** - **Self-driving**: About 1 hour from Hangzhou, about 3 hours from Shanghai; navigate to "Luniao Mountain Luoyao Wu Entrance" or "Sixi Entrance". ### **Recommended Hiking Routes** 1. **Luoyao Wu Entrance (Classic Route)** - **Route**: Luoyao Wu → Pingtian Temple → Mountain Top, about 2.5 km one way, with a vertical climb of 720 meters. - **Duration**: About 2 hours up the mountain, 1 hour down the mountain, suitable for those with moderate physical strength. - **Features**: Bamboo forests and streams accompany you along the way, and the meadows and boulders on the top of the mountain are great photo spots. 2. **Sixi Entrance (Shorter Route)** - **Route**: Sixi → Ancient Forest Path → Mountain Top, about 1.5 hours in total, suitable for beginners or those with limited time. 3. **Azalea Special Route (April-May)** - Enter from the north gate or middle gate, cross the sea of flowers along the ridge line, and experience the shock of "walking in the painting". --- ### **Must-see Attractions and Experiences** - **Boulders and Meadows on the Mountain Top**: After reaching the top, you can overlook the mountains in 360°, feeling the pride of "seeing all the mountains at a glance". - **Bamboo Forests and Streams**: Walk through the quiet bamboo forests, with streams gurgling, and mist lingering after the rain, like a fairyland. - **Alpine Azalea Sea**: In spring, the top of the mountain is covered with blooming azaleas, with red and pink intertwined, creating a strong visual impact. --- ### **Equipment and Precautions** - **Essential Equipment**: Non-slip hiking shoes, trekking poles, sun hats, drinking water (more than 2L), light dry food (energy bars, fruits, etc.). - **Safety Tips**: Some sections are steep and slippery, so walk carefully; there are no supply points on the top of the mountain, so bring your own food; it is recommended to go with a companion. - **Environmental Requirements**: Take away garbage and protect the natural ecology. ### **Nearby Activities** 1. **Jingshan Ancient Path**: About 40 minutes' drive from Luniao Mountain, the thousand-year-old Jingshan Temple and bamboo forests are suitable for culture lovers. 2. **Wangwei Mountain Cycling**: Famous for its 65 bends on the mountain road, suitable for cycling or self-driving challenges. 3. **Luniao Town Leisure**: Experience local farmhouses, dig bamboo shoots in spring, pick persimmons in autumn, and enjoy rural life. --- ### **Practical Tips** - **Tickets**: Currently free (some entrances may charge parking fees). - **Accommodation**: You can choose Luniao Town homestays or camping (confirm the campsite opening status in advance). With its primitive appearance and changing scenery throughout the year, Luniao Mountain has become a hidden paradise for hiking enthusiasts in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai. Whether it's spring flower viewing or autumn climbing, you can escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in nature here!