Huangshan Autumn Hiking Guide: Double the Chance of Sea of Clouds, Avoid Crowds with Lesser-Known Routes!​​

Autumn is the season with the highest frequency of sea of clouds in Huangshan! Combining meteorological data and on-site investigation, we have summarized 3 lesser-known routes: Easy, Challenge, and Photography, catering to visitors with different fitness levels.
​🌄 Sea of Clouds and Autumn Leaves Observation Guide​
​Increased Probability​: Late October to November, when cold and warm air currents meet, the sea of clouds appears up to 60% of the time (only 30% in spring).
​Best Time​: Early morning after rain, 6:00-8:00 at Yupinglou, Bright Summit, and Shixin Peak offer the best views.
​Autumn Leaves Tracking​: The sweetgum trees at Sanhuawu in Beihai Scenic Area and the Chinese tallow trees at Shimen Gorge turn red by the end of October.
​🚶 Route Comparison Table​
Route Type Distance/Duration Suitable For Highlights Easy (Up and Down Back Mountain) 6 hours Elderly and Children Yungu Cableway directly to the core area, fewer people at Shixin Peak Challenge (Up Front Mountain, Down Back Mountain) 8 hours Hiking Enthusiasts Tiandu Peak is steep, rich autumn colors in West Sea Grand Canyon Photography (Loop Route) 2 days Photographers Stay 1 night at Beihai Hotel, capture morning and evening light and shadows ​📸 Photo Spots​
Paiyun Pavilion: Use telephoto lens to shoot peaks in the sea of clouds like islands.
Monkey Watching the Sea: Foreground with unique rocks + midground sea of clouds + background sunrise, amazing layers.
Buxian Bridge Aerial Shot: The bridge connects two cliffs, and when the mist flows through, it looks like a fairyland.
​💡 Key Tips​
Large temperature difference at the summit, wear quick-dry clothes inside and bring a windproof jacket outside; raincoat is a must (frequent sudden showers).
Book summit accommodation in advance (Baiyun Hotel/Paiyun-type lodge) to avoid no rooms and having to descend on the same day.

Post by ScarlettKing | Oct 19, 2025