Accessing Bai Tho Mountain can be challenging as the official entrance is often closed. Many visitors find unofficial routes, often involving passing through local residences. One common method involves paying a small fee (around 50,000 VND) to a local resident who will guide you through their property and over a fence to reach the trail. Be prepared for a bit of an adventure and potentially some rock scrambling.

While the official entrance is frequently closed, many travelers report successfully finding ways to hike Bai Tho Mountain through unofficial access points. It's advisable to ask locals for the current best approach, as routes can change.

Look for signs or ask locals for 'Poem Mountain' or 'Bai Tho Mountain'. You might be directed to a house where you can pay a small fee to pass through. Be aware that some unofficial routes involve navigating through a tunnel or over rocks.

Bai Tho Mountain is located within Ha Long City, making it relatively accessible. You can typically reach the base of the mountain by taxi or motorbike from most hotels in the city.

It's unlikely a taxi can take you directly to the unofficial trailhead. You'll likely need to get dropped off near the general area and then follow local guidance or look for the unofficial entry points.

There isn't a formal ticket booth for the unofficial routes. Instead, you'll typically pay a small 'access fee' to a local resident, usually around 50,000 VND, to guide you through their property.

Since access is often unofficial, there are no set opening hours. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Early morning and late afternoon are popular times.

While the hike itself isn't officially ticketed, you will likely need to pay a small fee to a local resident for access through their property. This fee is usually around 50,000 VND.

Some reports suggest that if you are caught trying to access the mountain through unauthorized means, authorities might be called. It's generally recommended to find the accepted unofficial routes or inquire locally.

While some kayak tours might offer views of Bai Tho Mountain from the water, guided hikes directly to the summit are less common due to the access issues. It's often a DIY adventure or arranged with local guides.

The hike itself is relatively short, typically taking about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip, including time for photos at the summit. However, this can vary depending on your fitness level and how long you spend enjoying the view.

The hike is considered moderately difficult. It's steep, with many steps and some sections requiring scrambling over rocks. The high humidity and heat can also add to the challenge.

Wear comfortable, athletic clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip. Avoid sandals or flip-flops. Bringing a hat and sunscreen is also recommended.

There are no facilities or amenities at the summit. It's a natural viewpoint, so be sure to bring all the water and snacks you'll need.

You'll get spectacular panoramic views of Ha Long Bay, with its iconic limestone karsts and emerald waters. It's considered one of the best viewpoints in the area.

For the best photographic light, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The golden hour before sunset offers stunning colors and softer light, while early morning can provide clearer skies and fewer people.

The summit offers the most iconic panoramic shots of Ha Long Bay. Don't forget to capture the ancient poetry carvings on the cliff faces and the challenging trail itself.

A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the stunning views. However, if you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you can achieve even more professional-looking shots, especially with a wide-angle lens.

Be mindful of your surroundings while taking photos, especially near the edges. The terrain can be uneven, so prioritize safety over the perfect shot.

Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and tourist areas in Vietnam. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.