Hiking Guide to Daqing Mountain! A Great Destination for Hikers!

Daqing Mountain in Chifeng is located in Hexigten Banner, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. It is one of the core scenic areas of the Hexigten Global Geopark, renowned for its Quaternary glacial relics and granite landforms, making it ideal for hiking, photography, and geology enthusiasts. Below is a detailed hiking guide:

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**1. Basic Information**
- **Location**: Eastern Hexigten Banner, Chifeng City, about 30 km from Jingpeng Town.
- **Altitude**: The main peak of Daqing Mountain is approximately 1,500 meters, with gentle slopes along the hiking trails.
- **Key Attractions**:
- Glacial Pothole Cluster (the largest in the world).
- Granite peaks and rock formations (e.g., "Longevity Rock," "Camel Peak").
- Alpine meadows and birch forests.

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**2. Recommended Hiking Routes**
**1. Classic Loop (Suitable for Beginners)**
- **Route**: Scenic area entrance → Lower cableway station (optional cable car ride) → Hike to the summit pothole cluster → Explore via wooden boardwalk loop → Return to entrance.
- **Duration**: 3-4 hours (about 5 km total).
- **Highlights**: Easy access to glacial relics, perfect for families or time-limited visitors.

**2. In-Depth Hiking Route (For Enthusiasts)**
- **Route**: Bypass the cableway and ascend via the western trail → Explore undeveloped pothole clusters → Traverse birch forests → Descend eastward after reaching the summit.
- **Duration**: 5-6 hours (about 8 km total).
- **Tip**: Some sections lack signage; download offline maps or hike with companions.

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**3. Practical Tips**
- **Best Season**: June-September (lush greenery in summer, vibrant foliage in autumn); winter offers unique snowscapes but is very cold.
- **Tickets & Transportation**:
- Admission: ~¥120 (includes shuttle bus); one-way cable car: ¥50.
- Self-drive: ~2.5 hours from Chifeng city; navigate to "Hexigten Daqing Mountain Scenic Area."
- Public transport: Take a bus from Chifeng Bus Station to Jingpeng Town, then hire a local car (~¥100/vehicle).
- **Gear Suggestions**:
- Essentials: Non-slip hiking shoes, windproof jacket, hat, sunscreen.
- Optional: Trekking poles (for rocky sections), camera (wide-angle lens for potholes).
- **Accommodation**:
- Jingpeng Town: Budget hotels (e.g., Hanting, ~¥200/night).
- Near the scenic area: Yurt homestays (experience nomadic life; book in advance).

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**4. Important Notes**
1. **Safety First**: Do not climb smooth rocks in glacial relic areas; avoid hiking in rain.
2. **Eco-Friendly Travel**: Pack out trash to protect fragile alpine meadows.
3. **Altitude Awareness**: Though not high-altitude, avoid overexertion and catching a chill.
4. **Supplies**: No shops within the scenic area; bring water and snacks.

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**5. Nearby Attractions**
- **Arshihaty Stone Forest** (1.5-hour drive): World-class granite stone formations.
- **Dalinuoer Lake** (2-hour drive): Birdwatching and tasting local fish (Huazi fish).
- **Reshuitang Hot Springs** (near Jingpeng Town): Perfect for post-hike relaxation.

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Daqing Mountain blends natural wonders with cultural heritage. Take your time hiking to fully appreciate the awe-inspiring geological history spanning hundreds of millions of years.