The Zhejiang West Heavenly Road recommended by National Geographic, so beautiful for autumn self-driving it brings tears! Route included

A few days ago, I came across a China autumn self-driving route recommended by National Geographic and was instantly captivated by Daming Mountain in western Zhejiang! Taking advantage of the rich autumn atmosphere, I immediately invited friends for a spontaneous road trip. When you drive winding mountain roads with fiery autumn leaves on both sides, the feeling of freedom and grandeur is truly exhilarating!
🚗 "Delicate Slow Travel Edition" 2-day 1-night self-driving guide
【Day 1】 Depart from Hangzhou in the morning, about 1.5 hours’ drive to the foot of Daming Mountain → After check-in, leisurely explore the "Thousand-meter Tunnel" and "Ten-thousand-meter Cave" to experience the magical world inside → In the evening, wait for a splendid sunset at the mountaintop hotel or nearby viewing platform.
【Day 2】 Wake up early to watch the sea of clouds sunrise (weather permitting) → After breakfast, challenge the "Hanging Walkway," the most thrilling part of the trip, with an abyss beneath your feet and endless scenery ahead → Descend at noon, enjoy a hearty meal at a farmhouse restaurant, then happily return. This pace is neither rushed nor slow, allowing a deep experience of Daming Mountain’s ruggedness and gentleness.
✅ Highlights checklist
✅ Hanging Walkway: Clinging to the cliff face, five-star thrill level! But the scenery is top-notch, with autumn colors fully in view.
✅ Jiayun Lake: A high mountain lake with jade-green water reflecting the colorful surrounding forests, like a huge palette, perfect for photos.
✅ Daming Lake: More open than Jiayun Lake, ideal for a leisurely stroll to feel the mountain tranquility.
⚠️ Self-driving pitfalls to avoid
Mountain roads are winding and steep, so drive cautiously; novice drivers are advised to let experienced drivers take the wheel. Self-driving cars are allowed up the mountain, but the roads are narrow and parking is very tight during peak season, so taking the shuttle bus is recommended. Accommodation on the mountaintop is relatively simple; those with high standards for lodging are advised to stay in the town below or make a day trip. Autumn is peak tourist season, so it’s best to book tickets and accommodation online in advance.
🌰 Late autumn taste experience
On the way down, don’t forget to buy some local specialties like mountain walnuts and dried bamboo shoots, which are freshest this season. At the farmhouse restaurant at the foot of the mountain, order a pot of hot native chicken soup with some rustic stir-fries to instantly dispel the mountain chill.
Autumn in Daming Mountain is a beauty full of energy and vitality. It’s not for rushing through, but for slowing down, rolling down the car window, letting the cool breeze mixed with the scent of grass and trees flow inside, and truly feeling every moving frame of the scenery.

Post by lucytravel&& | Oct 17, 2025