Siming Mountains | The First Autumn Road Trip to Zhejiang's "Most Scenic Mountain Highway"

If there's one place in Zhejiang that makes road trip enthusiasts' hearts race, it must be the Siming Mountains! Come autumn, this area transforms into a spilled palette—red maples, golden ginkgos, terraced fields, and sea of clouds weave together like a painting. Every stretch of road holds surprises, earning it the title of "Jiangnan's Ultimate Autumn Scenery"!

🍁【Must-See Stunning Views】

- Siming Mountain Highway: This 42-kilometer "Tanggula of Eastern Zhejiang" winds through over 100 curves, making you feel like you're drifting through a painting. Scenic viewpoints appear every few kilometers—stop to capture shots of "mountain roads twisting through crimson foliage." At dusk, sunlight filters through maple leaves, turning the road golden, with every snapshot wallpaper-worthy!
- Beixi Red Leaf Valley: The most concentrated area of autumn foliage in Siming Mountains. A stream runs through the valley, flanked by fiery-red Japanese maples and trident maples. Stroll along wooden walkways on a "red carpet" of fallen leaves, accompanied by the murmur of water—pure magic!
- Bailu Shifeng Viewing Platform: Arrive at dawn for the sea of clouds! As mist fills the valleys, distant villages and terraced fields peek through, while windmills spin above the clouds like a fairyland. With luck, you might witness a "Buddha's halo"—a rainbow ring formed by sunlight piercing the clouds—utterly breathtaking!
- Shilin Ancient Village: A millennia-old hamlet hidden deep in the mountains. In autumn, every household's drying racks brim with persimmons like red lanterns, while corn and chili peppers adorn the eaves. The ancient ginkgo tree at the village entrance glows gold, and local farmhouses serve freshly picked sweet persimmons.

🚗【Recommended Road Trip Route】
Liangnong Town (Yuyao) → Siming Lake Redwood Forest → Beixi Red Leaf Valley → Bailu Shifeng Viewing Platform → Shilin Ancient Village → Danshan Chishui → Siming Mountain National Forest Park. This loop covers 90% of Siming's autumn highlights in a single day!

🍲【Seasonal Autumn Delicacies】

- Yuyao Bayberry Wine: A sip of this sweet-sour brew warms the stomach—locally brewed versions are especially aromatic.
- Mountain Free-Range Chicken Stew: Slow-cooked with spring water, the tender meat pairs perfectly with local greens in a soul-warming broth.
- Dried Persimmons: Hand-sun-dried by village elders, these chewy treats are naturally sweet. Also look for persimmon jam and slices as souvenirs.
- Stir-Fried Winter Bamboo Shoots with Cured Pork: Fresh autumn bamboo shoots, crisp and tender, wok-fried with smoky bacon for an irresistible aroma.

🏡【Accommodation Tips】

- "Persimmons Blush" Homestay: Wake up to panoramic views of crimson mountains and the ancient village. Rooms feature fireplaces—ideal for cozy evenings with tea.
- Siming Mountain Forest Campsite: Autumn camping at its finest! By day, admire the foliage; by night, stargaze around a fire. The site offers hot water and power, perfect for beginners.

📌【Pro Tips】

1. Best viewing period: Late October to mid-November (peak foliage). Avoid weekend crowds (traffic builds by Saturday noon).
2. Outfit ideas: Wear caramel or beige to complement the scenery. Pack a light jacket—mountain temperatures vary.
3. Photography: Soft morning light (7–9 AM) is ideal for foliage and clouds. Shilin Village excels in documentary-style shots—chat with locals drying harvests for lively frames.
4. Vehicle prep: The winding highway demands good brakes. New drivers, take it slow! Use designated parking areas—never stop on curves.

This autumn, don’t miss Siming's romance! Cruise through scarlet-lined roads, music playing, leaving all worries in the wind~