Yuncheng travel guide: Guan Yu's home city, the pink Salt Lake and the gateway to Yongle Palace, in southern Shanxi.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
-
1
Wulaofeng (Five Old Peaks) Summit Trail
The best-known mountain walk in Yuncheng prefecture, with five rock peaks, temples and long views.
-
2
Salt Lake Shore Walk
A flat walk beside coloured salt pans and brine channels.
-
3
Yellow River Bank Walk at Puzhou
A level walk along the Yellow River bank between the Iron Oxen site and Guanque Tower.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Paved or flat paths with no technical terrain
Long stair climbs and uneven stone, with several hours of walking
Longer routes needing local advice, good fitness and early starts
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Yuncheng.
- Items
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Summer heat above 33°C and sudden storms in July-August; carry water and avoid exposed paths in thunderstorms.
Hazard: Wet stone steps at Wulaofeng are slippery; wear shoes with grip.
Hazard: Salt Lake brine stings cuts and eyes, so keep it away from the face.
Hazard: The Yellow River bank is steep and the current strong; stay back from the edge.
Hazard: Mobile coverage is weak in the Zhongtiao Mountains, so download an offline map.