Yuke Grassland's Stunning Secret Spot

Autumn in Western Sichuan is simply breathtaking! 🏔️ Golden fallen leaves paired with snowy mountains and lakes make every shot a masterpiece. This time, I unlocked a divine hiking route in Daofu Yuke, where there are few people, wild scenery, and even chances to encounter wild animals. Here’s my 3-day, 2-night healing itinerary~

👉【Hiking Core Area】Yuke Jiayula Lake Lodge
📍Navigation: 60 meters southwest of Kaer Zaxi, Qimei Township, Yuke Town, Daofu County
🚗Transportation: 7-hour self-drive from Chengdu / car rental around 200+ per person
✨Reasons to stay:
1️⃣ Perfect spot to see snowy mountains right from your window; early risers can capture the golden sunlight on the peaks
2️⃣ 5-minute walk to the Jiayula Lake hiking starting point, saving time and effort
3️⃣ Free oxygen tanks and trekking poles provided, very beginner-friendly
💡Tested tip: Choose a south-facing room on the 2nd floor for better views! Remember to bring a thermos and fill it with hot water before setting off~

🗺️【3-Day Hiking Route】
Day 1: Chengdu - Daofu (5-hour drive)
▪️Stop at Yala Snow Mountain viewing platform for epic road shots
▪️Overnight in Yuke Town, enjoy authentic yak meat hotpot (recommend “Xueyu Tibetan Cuisine” for matsutake mushroom stewed beef)

Day 2: Jiayula Lake Circuit Hike (6km total / about 4 hours)
▪️Start from the lodge along the wooden boardwalk, passing by:
✔️ Emerald-colored alpine lake
✔️ Pristine forest autumn secret spot
✔️ Wild monkey observation point
⚠️Note: Fog tends to roll in after 3 PM, so an early start is recommended

Day 3: Qimei Valley Easy Hike - Return
▪️A lesser-known undeveloped route with colorful forests and streams along the way
▪️High chance to spot marmots (please do not feed them)

🥾【Gear Checklist】
✅ Windbreaker + fleece liner (big temperature difference day and night)
✅ Non-slip hiking shoes (some sections have loose stones)
✅ Sunglasses + sun mask (UV rays are very strong!)
✅ Power bank (cold drains battery fast)

📸【Photo Spots】
1️⃣ Reflection in the center of Jiayula Lake (calm winds in the morning make for better shots)
2️⃣ Prayer wheels under the snowy mountain (full Tibetan style)
3️⃣ Meadow in front of the lodge (stunning sunset glow in the evening)