Mount Qingcheng Back Range
Discover the serene beauty of Mount Qingcheng's Back Mountain, a haven of bridges, streams, and breathtaking vistas, distinct from its temple-filled F...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Mount Qingcheng Back Range
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the serene beauty of Mount Qingcheng's Back Mountain, a haven of bridges, streams, and breathtaking vistas, distinct from its temple-filled Front Mountain counterpart.
"The Back Mountain offers more nature spots with beautiful bridges over streams and breathtaking views. "
🎒 Pack Comfortable Shoes
Millions of steps await! Prioritize sturdy, comfortable footwear for your hike.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get hot and humid. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bridges Over Streams
Back Mountain
Wander across charming bridges spanning crystal-clear streams in the serene Back Mountain.
Breathtaking Vistas
Back Mountain
Experience impossibly steep steps leading to panoramic views that will leave you in awe.
Ancient Taoist Temples
Front Mountain
Explore the historic temples scattered throughout the Front Mountain, a significant Taoist site.
Gorge Boat Ride
Back Mountain
Enjoy a unique boat ride along a scenic gorge for a different perspective of the landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Qingcheng Adventure: Front vs. Back Mountain
Conquer the Steps: Pace Yourself
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Day Hikes near Chengdu?
🎒 Pack Comfortable Shoes
Millions of steps await! Prioritize sturdy, comfortable footwear for your hike.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get hot and humid. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Leisurely Mount QingCheng & DuJiangYan trip with no hiking?
Hiking options near Chengdu?
🚠 Consider the Cable Car
If you're not a seasoned hiker, the cable car on the Back Mountain is a great option.
⏰ Start Early
Arrive by 8:30 AM to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds.
Advice for 3-week China itinerary in September (Chongqing → Chengdu → Xi’an → Shanghai again? → Beijing
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack Comfortable Shoes
Millions of steps await! Prioritize sturdy, comfortable footwear for your hike.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get hot and humid. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
🚠 Consider the Cable Car
If you're not a seasoned hiker, the cable car on the Back Mountain is a great option.
⏰ Start Early
Arrive by 8:30 AM to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds.
🗺️ Differentiate Front & Back
Remember, Front Mountain is temples, Back Mountain is nature. Choose based on your preference!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Mount Qingcheng, particularly the Back Mountain with its charming bridges, clear streams, and breathtaking vistas. While the extensive, steep steps present a significant physical challenge, many find the experience rewarding. The Front Mountain offers a cultural immersion with its historic Taoist temples.
"Green mountain and clear waterfalls. 青城山is locate outside chengdu, about 1.5 hr drive. We got picked up around 830 arrived 10, it was hot by then. It’s a lot walking up n down. We didn’t make all the way to the top. We did take the cable car great view. By the time we were coming down it started raining. I’d say visit when is not hot maybe in the fall or spring."
Lili Xu
"Nice hike! If you’re not a frequent, suggest to take the cable car up, walk all the way up and then head down. We took 4.5hours with rest stops and photo taking. The front mountain is mainly for temples, the back mountain with more nature spots."
Sharon
"There is the front and the back Quingcheng.
The front is unesco heritage site, lots of temples, very very touristy.
The back mountain has beautiful bridges over the streams, temples, a boat along a gorge, impossibly steep steps, a rattly cable car and the most breathtaking views.
Both have millions and millions of steps. And when you think the steps had ended, there is another million of them. I reached the top kung fu panda style.
We much preferred the back mountain. We stayed at the end of the valley and started early from the “other” entrance — the one with bridges and streams. Even with excruciating steps, it was magical. We finished the route at the main entrance. It was good to arrive into the ancient town in time for dinner!"
E. W.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Qingcheng is about a 1.5-hour drive from Chengdu. You can hire a car, take a taxi, or use public transport to reach the base. Consider starting your journey early to maximize your time.
Yes, it is accessible by public transport from Chengdu, though it might take longer than driving. Research bus routes or train options from Chengdu to Qingchengshan town.
There are two main entrances: one for the Front Mountain and one for the Back Mountain. The Back Mountain entrance is often preferred for its natural beauty and has bridges and streams.
The travel time from Chengdu to Mount Qingcheng is approximately 1.5 hours by car. Factor in additional time for public transport.
Yes, parking facilities are available at the base of Mount Qingcheng, especially near the main entrances.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but expect an entrance fee for both the Front and Back Mountains. It's advisable to check the latest pricing online or at the ticket counter.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays, can save you time queuing.
Mount Qingcheng typically opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. Confirm the exact hours before your visit.
Yes, the cable car on the Back Mountain is an additional cost and is not included in the general entrance ticket.
While technically possible, it's highly recommended to dedicate a full day to either the Front or Back Mountain to fully appreciate its unique offerings without rushing.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Be prepared for a significant amount of walking and climbing millions of steps, regardless of which mountain you choose. Even with the cable car, there's still considerable hiking.
Yes, it is a strenuous hike due to the steep and numerous steps. Even young and relatively fit individuals find it challenging.
The Front Mountain is known for its UNESCO heritage status, numerous temples, and high tourist traffic. The Back Mountain offers more natural scenery with bridges, streams, and gorges.
Restrooms and basic facilities are available at various points along the trails, especially near major attractions and rest stops.
You can expect breathtaking views, especially from higher elevations on the Back Mountain. The lush greenery and natural landscapes are a major draw.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridges over streams in the Back Mountain, the panoramic vistas from higher points, and the ancient temples in the Front Mountain are excellent for photography.
Absolutely! The lush forests, cascading streams, and dramatic peaks of the Back Mountain provide stunning opportunities for landscape photography.
Early morning or late afternoon often offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel.
Drone usage is often restricted in natural parks and heritage sites. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture distant peaks. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as options can be limited on the trails. Ensure everyone wears comfortable, sturdy shoes as the terrain is steep and involves many steps. While the hike can be challenging, the beautiful natural surroundings and the sense of accomplishment can make it a memorable experience for older children and teens.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Focus on hiking the trails rather than relying solely on the cable car to save money. Pack your own food and water from Chengdu to avoid higher prices at the mountain. While there are entrance fees, the experience of exploring the natural beauty and cultural sites is well worth the investment.
🧘 Solo Travelers
Be prepared for the physical challenge, and consider using the cable car if you prefer to conserve energy for enjoying the views and surroundings. The trails are generally well-marked, but having a map or navigation app can be helpful. It's a great opportunity to challenge yourself physically and mentally while immersing yourself in a beautiful environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Two Mountains: Front vs. Back
The Back Mountain, on the other hand, is celebrated for its natural beauty. Here, you'll find picturesque bridges arching over clear streams, a serene gorge with a boat ride option, and incredibly steep, challenging steps that lead to breathtaking views. Many travelers prefer the Back Mountain for its more immersive nature experience.
When planning your visit, decide which aspect of Mount Qingcheng appeals to you most. If you're interested in history and religious sites, the Front Mountain is your destination. For stunning natural landscapes and a more adventurous hike, the Back Mountain is the way to go.
The Challenge of the Steps: What to Expect
This makes Mount Qingcheng a strenuous hike, even for those who consider themselves fit. The terrain is humid and very steep, so comfortable and sturdy footwear is absolutely essential. Travelers advise pacing yourself, taking frequent breaks, and staying hydrated to manage the exertion.
While challenging, the reward for conquering these steps is immense. The breathtaking views and the sense of accomplishment are often highlighted as major positives. For those seeking a physical challenge combined with natural beauty, Mount Qingcheng delivers.
Best Times to Visit for an Optimal Experience
Starting your day early in the morning, ideally by 8:30 AM, is a crucial tip. This strategy helps you beat the midday heat and avoid the largest crowds that tend to arrive later. Visiting on weekdays rather than weekends can also lead to a less crowded experience, allowing for a more peaceful exploration of the trails and sights.
While the Front Mountain can be busy year-round due to its cultural significance, the Back Mountain's natural beauty is best enjoyed with fewer people. Planning your visit outside of major Chinese holidays will also significantly improve your experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit