3 peaks to Hike in Xishan Mountain Range

A favourite track, located in the Xishan Mountain Range which is only a few hours away from famous accommodation choices such as Citadines Intime City Hangzhou, one of Hangzhou Serviced Apartments, Shi Li Long Ji is a hike that is 15km in length. Initially, the track was a mere 5km, which is 10km, in length, and was later lengthened to 15km. The length of the original track, 10 li, gives name to this trail; Shi Li, meaning ten li, and Long Ji meaning dragon's backbone. It is of the popular opinion that the path winds in such a way that it resembles a dragon's backbone.
Completing the trail is a task that would consume around five to six hours, which makes it a challenging act of perseverance to some the most experienced walkers. Although the trail may be long, there are multiple exit points to descend the mountain, positioned strategically along the path. These descending trails lead to some of the well-known attractions in the area such as Lingyin temple, Huafa temple, Daqing calley and Meijiawu tea culture village. There is the perfect spot for you to quench your thirst or reward yourself with a local snack, located at the foot of the mountain. This place is famous for its Hangzhou dishes and for its Longjing green tea.
When you are walking this trail, remember to wear sunblock and to carry gear to protect you from the sun. As the trail is at the top of the mountain, there is very little shade along the track, which makes it a hot, sweaty walk – especially in the summer. It is also highly advised that you do not leave the main trail as one can easily lose their way up here, and be caught in a bear trap – a common encounter on wild paths.

With the highest point if Xishan Mountain being located in the area, named Ruyi Peak, which makes this a popular trek for the visitor. Ruyi Peak is over 500m tall and has a dedicated viewing point before reaching the actual peak itself, called Ruyi pavilion. The pavilion offers a full view of the point, a 360-degree view, with a breath-taking view of the entire West Lake scenic area as well as Qiantang River. On days when the sun is out and bright, this makes one of the most sought after views on the tour. In addition to Ruyi peak and pavilion, the hiking trail also takes one to You Feng Lai Yi Pavillion, which is another popular point in the area.
The key highlight of this particular trek that sets it apart from others is the plant life. While other trails are populated with taller trees and bushes. Xishang, having relatively short trees, is able to provide the visitor with spectacular views and multiple Kodak moments.

If your heart's desire is to be one with nature, and not tread man-made walking paths, this is the one for you. While other mountainous hiking trails are man-made or at least tampered with, the trails in Longwu are renowned for their primitiveness and natural features, which allows you to become one with nature on your walk. If the weather and season are right, and luck is on your side, you may encounter a wide variety of wildlife on your walk. Tourists are known to have made contact with squirrels, eagles, peacocks and even pangolins. While these trails are considered far easier to hike than others, the flipside is the abundance of reptilian life. It is best to be cautious while walking, in case you happen to step on a snake slithering around.
During the tea plucking season, your walk would provide you with even more opportunities to explore the culture. Longwu is well-known for its green tea production. Walking in the area, it is possible for you to witness the plucking of tea leaves, and even join in on the plucking yourself.
For the post-hike treat, there are plenty of inns and restaurants run by farmers in the area, that serve a variety of farm-based, farm-flavoured dishes. These are sure to be the cherry on top of your hiking adventure in Longwu.