How to Hike Mount Huashan

One of the most famous mountains in the world, Mount Huashan, is where you find the most dangerous hiking trail in the world. In addition to the danger, you will also be treated to stunning scenery and cultural attractions. Here’s an insightful guide providing tips on how you can hike Mount Huashan.

Why should you visit Mount Huashan?

There are various reasons you should visit Mount Huashan. One is that this is where Chinese civilisation began, and two is that the mount is among China’s Five Mountains. Mount Huashan is considered the root of China and is also called the holy mountain of China.

Mount Huashan offers a heady combination of danger, thrill, and adventure. If you never tire of adventure and always seek more, this is the best place for you to hike. If you are a thrill seeker, you’ll be glad to know that there’s nothing more dangerous than the planked hiking trails that go over the peaks while connecting them with each other. Besides the thrill of hiking the mountain, you will also discover the most beautiful scenery China has to offer. For the best ever experience, you should visit in the morning at sunrise.

Mount Huashan is also culturally important; the mount is home to a number of Taoist temples.

Location and accommodation

Mount Huashan is located in Huashan Town in Shaanxi Province. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions, so there’s plenty of accommodation to be found nearby. If you are planning to hike here, make sure you book your accommodation early on. Consider Qujiang New District accommodation if you want to get to the mountain within the shortest span of time possible; you have many choices, including the likes of lyf Dayanta Xi'an.

The famous peaks

Mount Huashan has five different peaks: North Peak, West Peak, South Peak, East Peak, and Middle Peak. Each peak has its own special characteristics.

North Peak: With an altitude of 1,614, North Peak belongs to the northern area of the mountain. You cannot get to the other four peaks without first getting to North Peak. This is one of the risky terrains and makes for a perilous hike. Along the way to North Peak, you’ll come across several cultural attractions like Yunv Window, Zhenwu Palace, and Jiaogong Stone Chamber.

West Peak: Standing tall at 2082.6 metres, West Peak is known for its scenery. The best time to get here is in the evening at sunset. Along the way, you’ll find a number of other attractions.

South Peak: With a height of 2,154.9 metres, South Peak is the tallest peak out of the five peaks. Also called the Head of Mount Huashan, West Peak offers the best scenery across the mountainous landscape.

East Peak: Measuring a height of 2096.2 metres, East Peak is the verdant part of the mountain. The scenery is great here as well, and the hike can be extremely challenging. However, along the way, you’ll find several scenic spots where you can relax.

Middle Peak: Wedged between West Peak, South Peak, and East Peak, Middle Peak has an altitude of 2037.8 metres. The peak is home to Yunv Temple, a Taoist temple.

Getting here

There are several modes of transportation available to you. You can get here by flight from many major Chinese cities, and there are regular trains as well. Getting here by coach will take about two hours, and you can also drive.

Best time to visit

The best time to hike Mount Huashan is from April to October. This is when you get the best weather. But you should avoid visiting during the first week of October; this is the Chinese National Day holiday.

How long does the climb take?

Depending on your skill level and the peak you want to hike to, it could take about three to four hours to complete the hike. Start the hike in the morning so that you have enough time to explore and get back down in the evening.