A touch of green in the sky, the Aerial Grassland

Feihuyu-Aerial Grassland Scenic Area is a natural landscape combining canyon peaks and alpine meadows, perfect for self-driving adventures and outdoor photography. Here’s a detailed self-driving guide to help you plan your trip:

**1. Trip Overview**
- **Location**: Yu County, Zhangjiakou City, Hebei Province. Navigate to "Feihuyu Aerial Grassland" or "Yu County Aerial Grassland Scenic Area".
- **Best Season**: June to September (lush greenery and wildflowers in summer; colorful foliage in autumn).
- **Suggested Duration**: 1-2 days (can be combined with visits to Yu County ancient forts or Nuanquan Ancient Town).

**2. Self-Driving Routes**
1. **Starting Point Suggestions**:
- **From Beijing**: Jingzang Expressway (G6) → Zhangshi Expressway (Yu County South Exit) → Via Xiaguang Line and Zhangshi Expressway Connector to Feihuyu (about 280 km, 4-5 hours).
- **From Shijiazhuang**: Jingkun Expressway (G5) → Lai-Qu Expressway → Zhangshi Expressway (Yu County South Exit) → Feihuyu (about 350 km, 5 hours).

2. **Mountain Routes**:
- Feihuyu Canyon Section: About 20 km of winding mountain roads with steep cliffs on both sides—drive carefully (beginners should avoid driving at night).
- Aerial Grassland Summit: Continue about 15 km uphill from Feihuyu exit, with some gravel sections—SUVs are more suitable.

**3. Attractions**
1. **Feihuyu Canyon** (Free):
- Typical cliff valley terrain, with photo spots like "One-Line Sky" and "Sky-Piercing Pillar".
2. **Aerial Grassland** (Ticket: ¥65/person, additional fee for vehicles):
- Alpine meadow at 2,158 meters above sea level. Horse riding (¥50-100/hour) and camping (bring your own gear) are available in summer.
- Must-visit spots: Perennial Ice Cave (frozen year-round), wildflower fields (peak in July), wind turbine clusters.
3. **Nearby Attractions**:
- Nuanquan Ancient Town (firework performances, 30-minute drive from Yu County).
- Xiao Wutai Mountain (hiking required, suitable for advanced travelers).

**4. Practical Tips**
1. **Vehicle Preparation**:
- Check tires and brakes; bring a spare tire. Few gas stations in the mountains—refuel in Yu County.
2. **Accommodation**:
- No formal hotels on the grassland. Camping (night temperatures drop to 10°C—bring a down jacket) or stay in Yu County (recommended: "Yuzhou International Hotel").
3. **Dining**:
- Bring snacks and water; only simple food stalls are available in the scenic area. Local specialties: Huanggao (millet cake), buckwheat noodles, dried tofu.
4. **Notes**:
- Weak signal in the mountains—download offline maps in advance.
- Protect the environment—do not drive on the grassland.
- Watch for falling rocks during the rainy season (July-August); check the weather before departure.

**5. Cost Reference**
- Fuel + Toll: About ¥500-600 (round trip from Beijing).
- Tickets + Parking: About ¥100/person.
- Food & Lodging: Farm stays ¥100-200/night; county hotels ¥200-400.

---
Feihuyu Aerial Grassland is ideal for self-driving enthusiasts who love pristine landscapes, offering a mix of rugged and serene views. Avoid weekends during peak season (July-August).