Wawu Mountain Hiking Journal: A Surprising Encounter with Lanxi Cliff and Little Squirrels

With two energetic little ones—an 11-year-old sister and a 7-year-old brother—our family of four set off on the long-awaited trip to Wawu Mountain. After thorough preparation, we decided to truly experience the mountain’s spirit and beauty by hiking.

On the first afternoon, we drove to the picturesque Yanu Lake. The water was jade-green, surrounded by lush mountains. The kids couldn’t wait to run to the lakeside as soon as we got out of the car, boating, taking photos, and having a blast. We stayed by the lake that first night, where food options were quite convenient and varied. Yanu Lake is about a half-hour drive from Wawu Mountain. You can also choose to stay at the foot of the mountain to catch the first group entering the mountain early the next day.

The next morning, we arrived at the mountain base around 10 a.m. We took the cable car straight to the summit, reaching the top around 11 a.m. (didn’t check the exact time). We chose “Hiking Route Five” marked in the guidebook, which is said to showcase the most essential scenery of Wawu Mountain. We opted to hike down from the summit, worried the kids might struggle going up and get stuck halfway.

After exiting the cable car station at the summit, we turned right↩️ to visit all the summit attractions. The paths up there were almost flat and effortless. We walked, took photos, and kept an eye out for wildlife. After about an hour, we reached Xiang’er Mountain Lodge. At the summit, we encountered several little squirrels. The kids, initially sluggish, perked up when they saw the squirrels and eagerly started the real hike, hoping to spot more animals along the Lanxi Cliff plank road. On one side was a steep rock face, on the other a deep valley with orchids, and the sound of the stream was constant. The sister acted like a little explorer, leading the way, while the brother held my hand tightly, both scared and curious.

After about three hours (we were moving at a slow pace), the two little ones began to complain. “Mom, my legs can’t lift anymore,” “Dad, how much farther?” Just as they were about to give up, a few nimble squirrels suddenly darted out from the bushes, their fluffy tails standing up and their shiny black eyes curiously watching us. This reignited the kids’ enthusiasm, and all their fatigue seemed to vanish instantly. The sister whispered excitedly, “The squirrels are saying hello to us!” We took out some nuts we had prepared and gently placed them by the plank road. Watching the squirrels cleverly run over and grab them, the kids couldn’t stop smiling.

So we continued, stopping and going, admiring waterfalls, marveling at strange rocks, and playing with squirrels. What could have been a dull mountain path became lively and fun thanks to these little surprises. When we finally reached the upper station of the Gufoping cable car, the kids were completely exhausted😂. It was already 5 p.m. (we took quite a long time).

Sitting on the descending cable car, looking back on the day: yes, it was tiring, but seeing the joy the kids found in nature and feeling their growth from completing the hike made all the effort worthwhile. Wawu Mountain not only showed us the wonders of nature but also gave our family an unforgettable shared memory.

Travel Tips:

- Bring some nuts; there’s a high chance of encountering squirrels, which will delight the kids
- Prepare enough water and snacks before hiking, as there are few supply points along the way
- The summit is cooler, so even in summer, it’s recommended to bring a light jacket
- Choose hiking routes according to your ability.

Hope every family can find their own happy memories at Wawu Mountain!

Post by BED. Sam 2343 | Sep 3, 2025