Xiling Snow Mountain Autumn Fairy Tale｜Sea of Clouds and Colorful Forests, the Alps near Chengdu

While the Chengdu Plain is still basking in the late summer heat, Xiling Snow Mountain, just a two-hour drive away, has already welcomed the most beautiful autumn. The autumn colors here arrive especially early and are particularly brilliant. From the foot of the mountain to the summit, you can see a complete vertical natural zone change, a spectacle unique around Chengdu.

🚡 Best Touring Routes
Easy Version: Take the transport cable car directly to Yingxue Square, then transfer to the sightseeing cable car up to Riyueping. This route is the least strenuous and suitable for families with elderly and children. At Riyueping, you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea of clouds, forest, and distant mountains.
In-depth Version: Hike up the trail, which takes about 3-4 hours. Along the way, you can appreciate the autumn color changes at different altitudes, from broadleaf forests to coniferous forests, with rich layers of color. Although tiring, the experience is more complete.

📅 Itinerary Suggestions
One-day Tour: Visit Riyueping in the morning, explore around Yingxue Square in the afternoon, and return by evening.
Two-day Tour: Stay inside the scenic area and watch the sunrise and sea of clouds the next morning for a more leisurely experience.

🌄 Must-See Experiences
Yin-Yang Boundary Phenomenon: On the same ridge, one side is clear blue sky while the other is filled with swirling clouds and mist—a rare meteorological wonder.
Sunrise Sea of Clouds: If you stay on the mountain, be sure to get up early to watch the sunrise. Seeing the sea of clouds rolling beneath your feet and the sun leaping out from the clouds is truly breathtaking.
Red Leaf Corridor: The path from Watertadpole Pool to Deer Cliff is the best spot to admire red leaves, with dazzling colors like a dream.

📸 Photo Tips
Riyueping: Capture panoramic views of the sea of clouds and distant mountains.
Hongshibao: The red rocks here contrast sharply with the autumn leaves.
Azalea Forest: Although spring is the flowering season, the azalea forest in autumn has its own charm.

🍁 Autumn Features
Best Time: Mid-October to mid-November
Temperature: The summit temperature may drop below 0°C, so bring warm clothes.
Special Scenery: You can see the rare sight of snow-capped mountains and red leaves in the same frame.

🏨 Accommodation Options
Inside the Scenic Area: Convenient for watching the sunrise but more expensive.
Huashuiwan: Offers hot springs and more choices.
Xiling Town: Best value for money.

The autumn of Xiling Snow Mountain is brief and beautiful, like a carefully choreographed performance where every part is just right. If you want to find a place near Chengdu where you can see snow mountains, sea of clouds, and colorful forests all at once, this is the best choice.