Experience the Grandeur of the Three Gorges
The extraordinary landscapes above one of the world's largest artificial lakes are unveiled when you embark on a hike in the Three Gorges area. As you traverse these ancient trails, you're privy to a bird's eye view of the boats navigating below on the mighty Yangtze River.
Despite the inundation of large stretches from the Three Gorges Dam, there remain ample opportunities to hike through the spectacular Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges. The Qutang Gorge, being the most concise at 8 kilometers, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history, while the extensive Xiling Gorge stretches for 66 kilometers providing a more prolonged encounter with the region's splendor.
Hiking Routes Through Xiling Gorge
From Nanjinguan to Xiangxi, the trail weaves through terrain varying from tranquil to thrilling. Hikers can confront gentle paths or choose more challenging climbs with rewarding vistas. Caution is advised on narrower sections overlooking the tumultuous river, and local vegetation can be as high as an adult. The stretch from Nantuo Village to Sandouping is serene, following which you can access the highway leading to Maoping and Xiangxi.
Wu Gorge Adventure: Padang Brickyard to Mount Wu
The trek through Wu Gorge is reserved for the seasoned hiker. After a manageable hour on sand and stone from Padang Brickyard, the trail ascends into more treacherous terrain, where the footpath narrows precariously. Choices abound after Nanmu Garden: one can pursue the less cumbersome mountain roads to Beishi or embark on a cliffside journey to Qingshi, each offering its own flavor of excitement and challenge.
Traversing Qutang Gorge
Set out from the historic beacon towers, traversing a mountain road that delivers both ease and exhilaration. Along this path, resilient hikers are treated to wide routes that eventually taper, challenging their fortitude while remaining manageable, even for those who are more experienced in years rather than in hiking.
As the cradle of Chinese civilization, the Yangtze River offers more than just a physical journey—it's a voyage through time and tradition. A cruise here promises revelations of China's vast cultural heritage framed by awe-inspiring landscapes, creating memories that cling to the soul forever.
