Exploring the Majestic Qinling Mountains: Sea of Clouds and Fir Forests

The "last pure land" of Qinling is located in Huangbaiyuan, Laoxiancheng, and the uninhabited area of Taibai Mountain in Taibai County, Baoji, Shaanxi. With an altitude ranging from 2,200 to 3,200 meters, it is hailed as the "Shangri-La of Qinling." This area is the throat of the ancient Tangluo Trail, famously referenced in Li Bai's poem "The Difficulty of Shu Roads." It boasts well-preserved fir and red birch forests, vibrant alpine rhododendrons in June, grassland sunrises resembling fairyland, and a 70% chance of witnessing a sea of clouds!

🛬【Itinerary】

Day 1: Xi'an 🚗 Huangbaiyuan (3.5h) → Hike 5km through Walnutping Primitive Forest → Stay overnight at Dajiangou Homestay

Day 2: Dajiangou 🚗 Laoxiancheng (1h) → Hike 12km from Dudumen to Laoxiancheng Grassland → Camp under the Milky Way

Day 3: Early morning summit at Guangtoushan for sunrise and sea of clouds → Descend and return 🚗 Xi'an (4h)

(3 days and 2 nights in total, moderate intensity, suitable for beginners with guided tours)

⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】

1️⃣ Walnutping Fir Forest: Ancient fir trees reaching the sky, moss-covered ground feels like stepping on jelly 🍃

2️⃣ Laoxiancheng Grassland: The only alpine basin in Qinling, a colorful ocean of wild poppies and primroses from June to August 🌸

3️⃣ Guangtoushan Sunrise: 360° panoramic sea of clouds, distant glimpses of Gongga Snow Mountain, photos come with natural filters 📸

🍩【Must-Try Local Delicacies】

✅ Huangbaiyuan Coldwater Fish 🐟: Raised in snow-fed waters, firm texture, served two ways (spicy chopped pepper + clear stew)

✅ Laoxiancheng Sour Noodles 🍜: Fermented with alpine pickled vegetables, tangy and refreshing, perfect for post-hike recovery

✅ Taibai Potato Pancakes 🥔: Freshly pounded and pan-fried, crispy outside and chewy inside, best paired with honey!

🏨【Accommodation Recommendations】

Day 1: Huangbaiyuan "Shanyu Xinghe" Homestay, floor-to-ceiling windows with galaxy views, includes breakfast and dinner, approx. 300💰

Day 2: Laoxiancheng Grassland Camping ⛺ (equipment rental available for 100/set) or "Yamen Inn" shared dormitory, 80/person, experience a century-old residence

🚌【Transportation Tips】

Xi'an West Bus Station → Taibai County by bus (55💰/2h) → Carpool to Huangbaiyuan (40💰/person)

For return trips, contact the homestay owner for carpooling or book a rideshare (approx. 80💰/person)

🧡【Tips】

⚠️ Essentials: Windbreaker + raincoat (weather changes rapidly), headlamp, 2L water, energy bars

🚯 Leave no trace! Carry out all trash, no open flames allowed in grasslands

📶 No signal throughout the journey, download offline maps in advance; if you encounter takin, stay calm and slowly retreat