Check out the classic winter hiking routes in Jiangsu and Zhejiang, and find essential tips for winter snow hiking

Preface

When I think of winter, pure and clean white memories emerge. The fluttering snowflakes whiten the earth, the hills, and the forests. Even if I stay in a warm house, I can't help but want to step out and enjoy the fun of the outdoors.

In the white world, lie on the ground with your legs spread out and pose; shake off a handful of snow and capture the childlike moments in the camera; draw a heart with your fingers and write your and his/her name on it; in the snowy field, set up a small pot, light the stove, and cook a simple and warm lunch.

The spring flowers and autumn moons did not stop me, but the biting cold wind made me feel the emptiness of life. I exhaled a breath of turbid air filled with worries and depression, and looked at the mist slowly dispersing in front of me, and my mood was surprisingly calm.

In winter, it is also worth going out for a walk, walking along the pure white and clean snow-covered ancient paths, looking at the lush green pine trees under the white snow, and looking at the high mountain Tianchi that is thousands of miles away from the ice.

It is not only a fusion of scenery and colors, but also a fusion of mind and body. Only those who are in it can feel the comfort and pleasure.

No. 1 Moganshan

Mogan Mountain is a rolling hill with beautiful scenery. Although it is not as majestic as Mount Tai or as steep as Mount Hua, it is famous in the south of the Yangtze River for its lush bamboos, clear and inexhaustible mountain springs, numerous villas, and charming scenery that changes with each season. It enjoys the reputation of "the best mountain in the south of the Yangtze River".

This is a circular hike along the Moganshan Historic Trail, a departure from the usual tourist routes. We'll follow the path Chiang Kai-shek once took to the summit, then explore the expansive, dreamy landscape of Strange Rocks Corner Forest Park after the snow has cleared. The descent is even more spectacular.

Itinerary: Single day

Mileage: 10km, climbing about 500m

Difficulty: ★★ (Outdoor entry level)

Tips:

1. It is recommended that beginners prepare trekking poles. The climb is not very strenuous, but the road conditions are quite rough. The uphill road is a bamboo forest dirt road with a slightly steep slope, and the downhill road is a gravel ancient road, which can be slippery in the rain.

2. You need to bring meals and supplies along the way. Except for the scenic area road in the middle, there are no supply points during the up and down mountain hike. It is recommended to prepare them in advance.

(Photo from: Cen Sanshui Shuishui)

【Moganshan Villa Group】

More than a hundred years ago, European missionaries came to this beautiful place and built the first villa in the mountains. After that, beautiful Western-style villas appeared one after another, becoming a favorite holiday destination for foreign guests and celebrities.

(Photo from: Ivring)

Some of the villas here have stories, some have unique styles, and are a combination of modern and retro styles. Walk into the villa complex with stories and listen to the stories behind the houses and their owners.

(Photo from: Cen Sanshui Shuishui)

【Hiking Chiang Kung Road】

The scenery along the way kept changing under our feet as we went deeper. Hiking on Jiang Gong Road, we always had the illusion of traveling through time and space.

(Photo from: Cen Sanshui Shuishui)

Sword Pond

According to legend, Moye and Gan Jiang forged their two precious swords here, using mountain stone for the swords and pond water for the swords, hence the name Mogan Mountain. This area is home to the only waterfall complex on Mogan Mountain and is one of the most popular attractions on the mountain. Visitors to this area inevitably take a "I've been here" photo. Numerous poems and inscriptions are also carved into the walls of Jianchi Mountain, which interested tourists are encouraged to explore.

(Photo from: Cen Sanshui Shuishui)

In winter, Moganshan's graceful, graceful branches and leaves, the verdant pines and cypresses in their myriad forms, create a breathtaking spectacle that leaves one breathtakingly captivated. Dotted with crystal-clear rime, the scene is captivating, inviting a closer look. The silvery, graceful rime on the branches is an essential embellishment to this fairytale world of ice and snow. The translucent whiteness of the snow brings a sense of relaxation and a sense of forgetfulness.

NO.2 Wuyue Ancient Road

The Wuyue Ancient Road was the main route between Wuyue and Southern Tang during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. Ascending the stone steps along the Wuyue Ancient Road, you'll be greeted by streams and waterfalls, winding paths and winding paths, each with its own unique rhythm. It feels like walking in a painting, a fusion of nature and humanity.

Duration: 2 days

Mileage: 5+10KM, cumulative climbing of about 1200m

Difficulty: ★★★ (Medium)

Tips:

1. It is recommended that people who lack mountaineering experience prepare knee pads. The ascent is quite steep, but the road is in very good condition, with ancient bluestone paths.

2. There are shops and toilets at the top of the mountain, so please prepare supplies when going up and down the mountain.

3. You can prepare the stove and pot in advance and cook lunch at the Tianchi Lake on the top of the mountain.

(Picture from: Gege♌)

【Wuyue Ancient Road】

The best season to go is from December to March of the following year. The main attractions are the ten-mile ice hangings and rime. Because the temperature on the top of Tianchi is relatively low, there are deciduous trees within a radius of dozens of miles. In late autumn and early winter, cold currents pass through.

The bare branches are covered with a layer of crystal clear icicles, and strings of exquisite icicles hang on the cliffs. If the weather is clear, the ten miles of icicles will sparkle in the sunlight, just like the scenery of the north.

(Photo from: ada Zhang)

【Tianchi Lake in Western Zhejiang】

Surrounded by low mountains, lush grass, gurgling springs, and crisscrossing streams, the lake forms a vast basin in its center, creating a scene of mountains flowing toward the lake and water flowing toward the pond. Covering 900 mu (approximately 1,000 hectares), Tianchi Lake in Western Zhejiang is one of the highest and largest lakes in Jiangnan. It can be described as "a vast divine pond, a mirror of the sky floating in the air." Here, the water is clear and deep blue, the sky and water merge into one, and the rolling hills offer expansive views. It is also the primary habitat of the sika deer, a nationally protected species.

(Picture from: Planting Herbs in the Mountains)

NO.3 Huihang Ancient Road

The Huihang Ancient Road was first built in the Tang Dynasty and has a history of more than 1,000 years. It is a corridor that combines natural scenery and mysterious culture. It preserves many ancient villages, ancient checkpoints, ancient stone roads, ancient bridges, ancient tea pavilions, ancient trees, etc.

Duration: 2 days

Mileage: 7+8km, cumulative climbing of about 500m

Difficulty: ★★ (Outdoor entry level)

The Huihang Ancient Road has distinct seasons with different scenery. In spring, the scenic area is covered with wild flowers, competing for beauty; in summer, clouds and mist are curling, green pools and beautiful waters are flowing, and cool breezes are blowing; in autumn, the mountains are covered with red, and the forests are dyed with colors, creating an intoxicating scene; and in winter, ice is like pillars and waterfalls turn into ice, just like a crystal world.

Tips:

1. Be sure to prepare a pair of shoes that fit comfortably and have thick soles. The climb isn't very strenuous, but the route is long, mostly farmland, and has a lot of gravel. Thin soles will hinder your walking.

2. You can travel light, as there are many supply points along the way. It is recommended to wear clothes that are easy to put on and take off.

(Picture from: Eryu)

The Huihang Ancient Trail is an entry-level outdoor route, known as the "most challenging trail in East China". The route is easy and simple; children as young as 6 years old can also participate and walk the entire route.

(Picture from: Korean soy milk)

In the outdoor world, there is a saying: Walking along the Huihang Ancient Trail proves that you have graduated from elementary school in the outdoor world!

(Picture from: Korean soy milk)

The entire journey is 15 kilometers, and the natural scenery along the way is superb, with snow-capped mountains, birds singing, streams whispering, and the sound of the wind, which is pleasing to the eyes all the way.

No. 4 Huangshan

Huangshan was originally named "Yishan" for its dark blue peaks and rocks, which appear dark blue from afar. Later, due to the legend that Emperor Huangdi once refined elixir here, the name was changed to "Huangshan." Huangshan's signature attractions include its "Four Wonders and Three Waterfalls": the four wonders are: unusual pines, grotesque rocks, sea of clouds, and hot springs; and the three waterfalls: the Human-shaped Waterfall, the Baizhang Spring, and the Nine Dragon Waterfall.

Duration: 1 day

Mileage: 9km, accumulated ascent about 600m

Difficulty: ★★ (Outdoor entry level)

Tips:

1. Water is in short supply in the mountains, and a bottle of mineral water costs 5-15 yuan.

2. As the scenic area is over 1,600 meters above sea level, the temperature is 8-10 degrees Celsius lower than at the foot of the mountain. The elderly and infirm, as well as tourists visiting Huangshan in winter, may wish to bring slightly more warm clothing than at home.

3.Sunrise time: Winter: 5:30-6:00.

(Picture from: Sword Knight)

Unlike visiting Huangshan in spring and summer, the once lush green mountains and beautiful waters were bruised by the harsh winter, withered grass and withered sun, creating a rather bleak and chilling feeling. However, if you haven't experienced Huangshan in winter, you haven't truly been to Huangshan.

(Picture from: Sword Knight)

During this period, it becomes an isolated snow kingdom that belongs exclusively to you and this period of time. Only then can you understand the artistic conception of "jade pillars supporting the sky, white flowers filling the trees, it seems as if you have fallen into an ice pot, and you don't know where the human world is anymore."

(Picture from: Sword Knight)

The cold winter becomes romantic because of the falling snowflakes. Huangshan is a snowy world with light and lingering snowflakes dancing gracefully. Thousands of mountains and valleys are baptized by ice and snow.

(Picture from: Sword Knight)

Rime, icicles, and winter snow sparkle in the sunlight.

NO.5 Seven Peaks of Ice and Snow

From the foot of West Tianmu Mountain, you will cross the ridge to the foot of East Tianmu Mountain, passing through seven major peaks, namely: Xianren Ding 1506--Longwang Mountain 1594--Jieli Peak (also called Yaowang Mountain) 1546--Qianmu Peak 1554--Tongkenggang 1509--Yangtianping 1248--Daxianding 1477, commonly known as the "Seven Peaks".

Itinerary: 2 days and 2 nights

Mileage: 22+14km, cumulative climbing of about 2900m

Difficulty: ★★★★ (Intermediate outdoor level)

Tips:

1. Prepare professional winter hiking equipment such as jackets, backpacks, trekking poles, sunglasses, etc. in advance, as there are few supply points on the mountain.

2. There are many continuous downhill sections, so it is recommended to trim your nails before going out.

3. The route is quite difficult and requires a high level of climbing, but the scenery is superb. Those without outdoor hiking experience should register with caution.

(Picture from: Blue Sea)

Climb to the summit of Longwang Mountain, the main peak at 1,587 meters above sea level. Climbing Longwang Mountain, you'll straddle Lin'an, Anji, and Ningguo, dangling from all sides, gazing proudly at the six peaks of Tianmu Mountain, your spirit soaring as you reach for the heavens!

(Picture from: Blue Sea)

The bizarrely shaped volcanic rocks on Jieli Peak, the rime and icicles along the way, and the snowy scenery through the secret jungle are beyond words.

(Picture from: Blue Sea)

(Image from: rhino_5661)

Winter Activities

Equipment

(Picture from the Internet)

1. Jacket or down jacket: A jacket is preferred, as it offers better wind and rain protection than a down jacket and is ideal for hiking.
2. Fleece jacket or non-cotton wicking underwear: It's best to have an extra set of clothing, especially if you sweat easily. Bringing an extra change of clothing will ensure comfort for the next day.
3. Shoes: Mid- or high-top sneakers (preferably waterproof hiking boots). Ordinary sneakers are less waterproof for snowy hikes.
4. Snow gaiters: Suitable for both snowy and rainy days.
5. Hat/scarf/gloves: Essential for warmth.
6. Trekking poles: Essential for both snowy and rainy days. Trekking poles can significantly increase safety when the trail is difficult, especially when descending. 7.
Thermos: Drinking hot water in freezing weather is the ultimate way to show your commitment to yourself. 8. Sunglasses
: For hiking in heavy snow, they provide eye protection.
9. Knee pads: Choose the right one for each route and group of hikers.
10. Crampons: Due to heavy snow, there may be icy sections on the trail, so crampons are best brought along.
11. Power Bank: In cold temperatures, phone batteries drain quickly, sometimes freezing frequently. A power bank is a must-have for photography enthusiasts.
12. Chocolate: Candy, or Energy Drinks: Winter hiking requires significantly more energy than usual, so carrying some chocolate, candy, or an energy drink can be helpful.

(Picture from the Internet)

Precautions

1. While winter hiking can be cold, it's easy to sweat. Be sure to add or remove layers appropriately, and avoid taking off too much clothing when you feel hot.
2. If you feel tired and need to rest during a hike, don't rest for too long. You sweat during hiking, and the longer you rest, the lower your body temperature will be, causing discomfort.
3. Some people bring strong alcoholic beverages to keep warm during winter hikes. This depends on individual preference. For some, drinking alcohol during cold winter hikes can actually cause cold hands and feet, leading to hypothermia. On my hike, I drank alcohol while eating hot pot, and I felt completely cold and slightly shivering. Afterward, I drank some hot water and continued my hike slowly. Once I started moving, my hands and feet returned to normal temperature.
4. If you want to see the best snow scenery, it's best to get up early and be the first group on the trail that day. This way, you'll be able to see unprecedented views. Otherwise, after other groups have already passed, the trail will become muddy and sometimes icy, making it even more difficult to walk, and the snow scenery won't be as beautiful.

Conclusion

Even in the bitterly cold wind, you can still enjoy the beauty of the mountains and walk in nature, feel a different life, change your original attitude towards life, get to know a new self, and experience the growth that walking brings us.