Day 1 Zhengzhou → Shatan Village → Maolu → Tiansheng Bridge → Goose House
All day
Meeting point (boarding point):
7:30 AM at the entrance of Home Inn Zhengzhou East High-speed Railway Station (no long-term parking, please arrive early)
8:00 Zijingshan Subway Station Exit C (departs on time, please arrive early)
8:30 Liuzhuang Subway Station Exit D2 (departs on time, please arrive early)
Please abide by the boarding time. If you are late, we will not wait for you. Please go to the next stop or the last stop on your own.
Hidden within the majestic Taihang Mountains lies a serene hiking destination: the Goose House Natural Bridge, Wanfo Temple, and Yinggu Gorge. Here, the majestic grandeur of the northern mountains blends seamlessly with the vibrant beauty of the southern landscapes. Every inch of the land exudes the mystical charm of nature, creating a paradise for hiking enthusiasts.
This three-day itinerary will delight you with its breathtaking majesty of the Cat Road, the mystical Natural Bridge, the dignified Wanfo Temple, the majestic Yinggu Gorge, and the idyllic Luojie Village. Along the way, we'll marvel at the sweeping mountain ranges, and the Dandy Test Rock is a must-see photo stop. The breathtaking Natural Bridge, a masterpiece of nature, will inspire you to experience the joy of conquering nature.
Departing Zhengzhou early in the morning by bus, we were captivated by the majestic beauty of the Taihang Mountains. Arriving at the starting point, we stretched our legs and began our exploration.
We arrived at Shatan Village at about 11:30. We made some adjustments here, had a simple meal at a farmer's house, and prepared to go into the mountains.
Cat Road, literally "hung" on the cliffs of the Taihang Mountain Grand Canyon, has been a mountain road from Qiaoshang Township in Huguan County, Shanxi Province, to Ewu Township since ancient times. According to local villagers, "Cat Road" means a path only cats can traverse.
It is impossible to determine when the Maolu Road was first built. However, a beautiful legend still circulates in the area, dating back to the Northern Song Dynasty, when the Shangdang area, the main battlefield of the Song-Liao War, was located on the western foot of the Taihang Mountains today.
Legend has it that Yang Liulang, leading the Song army, was defeated at Huguan and trapped by the Liao army atop the Goose Roof, the summit of Shangdang Mountain. Perched on a precipice, surrounded by numerous armies below, the mist shrouded the bottomless depths, leaving no escape. In despair, Yang Liulang drew his sword, sighed heavenward, and struck a rock. With a loud clang, a wild cat suddenly leaped from the weeds and scurried down the mountain. With an idea, Yang Liulang quickly ordered his men to follow the cat's path. They discovered a dangerous path nestled among the cliffs! The Song army quickly retreated along this path. In remembrance, Yang Liulang named it "Cat Road."
The legendary story of a famous general's escape from death certainly imbues this path with mystery and adds color. However, the true glory of the "Cat Road" lies in bearing the footsteps and hopes of the villagers on this land for thousands of years.
This is the hidden and greatness of the earth, a brilliance unseen by fireworks.
West Taihang, located in the Shanxi section of the Taihang Mountains, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, just like South Taihang, but it is less well-known. Located in the heart of the Central Plains, it retains a simple and ancient history; the mountains here are steep and unique, exuding a hidden and attractive scenery.
Around 2-3 pm, after arriving at Ewu Village, head to Tiansheng Bridge:
South of Maolu, at the top of Yinggu Mountain, there is a natural bridge spanning between the north and south cliffs. It is the largest natural stone arch bridge discovered in northern my country so far.
The Natural Bridge spans 50 meters, stands 200 meters high, is 5 meters wide, and is over 10 meters thick. Its perfectly rounded arch is a true masterpiece of natural craftsmanship.
From afar, standing atop the bridge feels like soaring above a rainbow, its sides seeming to plunge into the depths, a truly thrilling experience. Walking along the bridge leads to winding paths through forests and flowers. The 50-meter length is more than enough for an exhilarating experience, while the 5-meter width provides a sense of security.
Stay at Goose House Farmhouse at night and enjoy the quiet nightlife here. You can chat under the stars and play mahjong and poker. The activities of young people are so comfortable and passionate!
No. 2 Tian'ewu Village → Huangyadi Village → Persimmon Garden → Sanshan'an (Accommodation)
All day
06:30 Get up, wash and set off;
The hike started at Goose House at 7:00;
Follow the highway through Huangyadi and Shiyuan Reservoir to Tianzhugou Grand Canyon, where you'll admire the towering Tianzhu Peak and the majestic Tongtian Waterfall. A forest trail will take you to the Sanshannao Observation Deck, where you'll admire the grandeur of the Sanjiaokou Reservoir. Then, along the now-vanishing Sanshannao Ancient Village, you'll arrive at the Sanshan'an Inn for the night. The journey is approximately 22 kilometers, with an ascent of approximately 530 meters. The total duration is approximately 11 hours, and the intensity is moderate.
Day 3 Sanshanzhai → Sunshiyao → Shanglajiang → Nanyao → Luojiezhai → Zhengzhou
All day
day 3
Luojie Village, known as "paradise on earth" by hikers, is an extremely beautiful village deep in the Taihang Mountains. There is neither the prosperity of the city nor the hustle and bustle of scenic spots. It is surrounded by mountains and cliffs, full of primitive wilderness. It is one of the few classic hiking routes in southern Taihang.
Today's hiking route is a series of cliffs and slopes. Some roads are difficult to walk on, while some are on the cliffs. We walk through the mountains and forests, pass by ancient villages, and stand on the cliffs to enjoy the scenery. The whole hiking process is full of experience, and it feels like climbing a mountain. We will gather at the end of Luojie Village around 12 noon.
The journey is 16 kilometers, with a total elevation gain of about 750 meters. The total journey time is 7.5 hours.
If you long to escape from the hustle and bustle, pursue the joy of the mountains, and have a deep encounter between your soul and nature, then follow the China-TravelNote Club, set foot on this secret land of Taihang, measure its beauty with your feet, and feel its tranquility with your heart.
Don't hesitate any longer, come and start this unparalleled hiking journey
Arriving in Zhengzhou city around 17:00, the bus will stop at the boarding point and kiss goodbye with tears
If you are catching a high-speed train and your trip is approaching, the bus will prioritize the fastest speed (elevated throughout the journey) and reach Zhengzhou High-speed Railway Station first to provide convenience for out-of-town tourists!
It is recommended to buy high-speed rail tickets after 18:00
