Challenging K2 Longdou Peak in Shaoguan, Guangdong: An unforgettable, arduous, but regret-free journey
Preface
Longdou Peak, also known as Longdouxia, is one of the three most dangerous peaks in Guangdong. Composed of three connected mountain ranges: Dragon Tail, Dragon Middle, and Dragon Head, it resembles a soaring dragon. While not particularly high, it is renowned for its unique, dangerous, and steep features.
This isn't just a typical hiking route, but a rock climbing route that requires both hands and feet. Starting early in the morning, climbing 80-90° rocks, rappelling, and traversing ridges, valleys, and woods, you'll experience a variety of outdoor experiences all in one place.
If you like the outdoors, this mountain is not to be missed. If you like the sea of clouds and sunrise, you will definitely be fascinated by the scenery at the top of the mountain.
address
Longdou Peak, Aizi Town, Shixing County, Shaoguan City, Guangdong Province
External transportation
Navigate directly to the accommodation point, Longdoufeng Outdoor B&B, which is at the foot of Longdoufeng Mountain.
Taking Guangzhou as an example, there are two highways to choose from. We recommend the Beijing-Hong Kong-Macao Expressway → Beijing-Guangzhou Expressway. We do not recommend the Shantou-Kunming Expressway because the national highway exiting the Shantou-Kunming Expressway is difficult and mountainous, making it quite dangerous. (As shown in the figure, we recommend option 1)
Hiking Longdou Peak
Hiking route: Trailhead → Longwei → Longzhong → Temple → Longtou → B&B
The entire Longdou Peak climb is 19 kilometers and takes 14 hours. The section from the trailhead to Longwei involves a night hike through the woods. This section has many forks and is late at night, making it easy to get lost. It's important to stay close to the leader and not fall behind.
The route from Longwei to the temple is mostly rock climbing, which is quite difficult and requires caution. The descent point to the temple is a cement road with a steep slope. If you do not reach the temple by 2 pm, you will choose to descend from here.
Trailhead → Dragon Tail (approximately 3 hours)
To climb this route, you need to wake up at 3:00 AM and depart from the trailhead at 4:00 AM. The mountain air can be very cold late at night, so be sure to have breakfast and warm up before heading to the trailhead.
From the trailhead to the tail of the dragon, visibility is limited in the dense forest. You must carry a headlamp for better navigation.
An important reminder is that there are ribbons tied to some places where it is easy to get lost. It is not easy to get lost if you follow the instructions on the ribbons.
The weather in Shaoguan is changeable, and you can't always regard the sea of clouds as the highlight of your trip. Like many mountains, the ever-changing clouds and fog are an unexpected factor in your trip. Sometimes there is thick fog, and sometimes the sky and the earth are open. The courage to climb is enough to fight the weather. Every hard step will be the best answer to your trip.
Being fortunate enough to witness a sunrise is truly the greatest gift from nature. The rolling clouds, the clearing skies, and the silhouettes of distant mountains are all like gifts bestowed upon us by unexpected encounters. Sunrise silhouettes are beautiful whether toned or captured directly.
Longwei→Longzhong (about 7 hours)
After experiencing the stunning sunrise at Longwei, the most exciting part is walking through Longzhong. The pictures that make your friends on WeChat Moments envious are from here.
The entire route from Dragon Tail to Dragon Middle is a rock climbing route, requiring gloves and the use of both hands and feet. The route also involves climbing an approximately 80° rock face and descending with a rope.
Longzhong has many peaks, and climbing one peak after another is a challenge. The climb here generally follows the ridgeline, making it less likely you'll stray. However, the terrain is treacherous, so be careful and cautious, be mindful of slippery steps, and don't risk your life for the sake of taking photos. Furthermore, depending on the weather, fog and clouds can often obstruct your view, so be extra cautious.
Surround yourself with a sea of clouds and experience the allure of a ridgeline walk! To experience such breathtaking views, you'll need to endure a challenging trek. As you descend into the valley, the rocks are slippery and covered in moss, so be mindful of your footholds. It's best to spread out your descent to prevent falling debris, giving your teammates time to react and ensuring safety.
The rock climbing at Longdou Peak is very intense, requiring both physical strength and courage. You must not only take each step firmly but also hold on to the rock face. The climb is a constant descent and ascent, a challenge to your physical fitness while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Rope descent was a small experience of this trip. A short section of rope allowed me to experience the excitement of the outdoors.
Longzhong→Longtou (about 3 hours)
Climb to the top of the dragon head and successfully challenge.
stay
Longdoufeng Outdoor B&B
A homestay in a small village at the foot of the mountain, with a warm and welcoming owner. A bed in a clean, tidy room costs 30 yuan per night. Many of the ingredients for dinner are homegrown or freshly picked, and with ten dishes and a soup, the average price per person is only 30 yuan, making it a very reasonable price.
equipment
1. A three-piece jacket (cold and rainproof) is essential for travel
2. Bring a headlamp and gloves when climbing at night (walking at night, hiking and rock climbing)
3. When hiking, remember to wear hiking shoes, trekking poles, and knee pads (anti-slip, knee protection)
4. Outdoor backpacks should free your hands as much as possible while ensuring your physical fitness (light hiking)
5. Sun hat and sunscreen (even without the sun, the ultraviolet rays are strong)
6. Two meals on the road, 2L of drinking water (to ensure basic energy replenishment)
Difficulty level
The route's difficulty and intensity both reach four stars, and it is not recommended for minors to participate.
Travel Insurance
It is a must to buy. Outdoor activities are risky, so you should protect yourself.
Conclusion
The beauty of Longdou Peak has always been there, just waiting for you to feel its charm.
