I recommend an absolutely niche but super stunning place.

No matter the season, spring, summer, fall, or winter, where in Hangzhou is best for a day hike❓

The Great Tree Kingdom of West Tianmu Mountain is a must 🌲.

West Tianmu Mountain has rich animal and plant resources and is the most important geological, animal, and plant research base in East China.

The towering ancient trees are truly shocking to see 🫨 How can they be so big 🚀🚀🚀

📍Location: Great Tree King Scenic Area, West Tianmu Mountain, Lin'an

🚗Transportation: Self-driving, 1.5 hrs from downtown Hangzhou

⛰️Hiking route: South Gate - Chanyuan Temple - Wuliting - Great Tree King - Kaishan Old Hall - Longfengjian Parking Lot
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⚠️「Some tips」
✅You can park your car at Chanyuan Temple, which is the starting point of the hike. The whole journey to the top of the mountain takes 3–4 hrs, and then you can take a shuttle bus down the mountain (CNY 20 per person) to avoid going back the same way.

✅For an easier option, take the shuttle bus directly from the South Gate to the Longfengjian Parking Lot (CNY 20 per person).

Walk for 20 mins to enter the core Great Tree King Scenic Area, and then return to the shuttle bus stop the same way to go down the mountain, which takes 1–2 hrs.

👣 Hiking route:

⛰️Classic route:
South Gate - Chanyuan Temple - Wuliting - Great Tree King - Kaishan Old Hall - Longfengjian Parking Lot.

This route is relatively easy and suitable for most Travelers.

After reaching the top of the mountain, you can choose to take a shuttle bus down the mountain (CNY 20 per person) or return the same way.

⛰️Wilderness hiking:
📍Hongmiao, Lin'an, Hangzhou
➡️Total distance: 10.4 km
↗️Cumulative climb: 680m
Half wilderness road and half scenic area. You still need a ticket 🎫 to pass through the scenic area entrance.