Alpine Meadow·Bird Diao Mountain

Alpine meadows, with herds of cattle and sheep, are just like a fairy tale world. After walking many hiking trails, apart from the stunning Tiger Leaping Gorge, there is also a less-known hiking trail in Dali called the 'Bird Diao Mountain Circuit'. Here, there are undulating alpine meadows, tall and straight pine forests, lush shrubbery, winding streams, and free-roaming cattle and sheep, as if one has stepped into the movie scenes of Heidi and her grandfather. People always think that seeing the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake in Dali is already very beautiful, but the meadows of Bird Diao Mountain and the blue sky with white clouds are even more worth seeing. 📍Location: Bird Diao Mountain⛰️ It takes about 2 hours by car from Dali Ancient Town, and after passing through the village and entering the forest, there is about 20 kilometers of mountain road. It is recommended that friends who drive take it slow. 🏠Destination: Two white houses at the migratory bird observation station, start hiking from the small path on the left side of the houses. 🚶Hiking: The whole journey is about 12 kilometers, takes about 7 hours, with the highest altitude around 3200 meters, and an altitude climb of about 500 meters. Difficulty level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ There are two hiking routes: 1⃣️ The big circuit: through pine forests, shrubbery, streams, meadows, hillsides, and lakes (about 12 kilometers). 2⃣️ The same way back: hike through the undulating alpine meadows, directly to Love Heart Lake, and cross about 10 small hills along the way (about 8.5 kilometers). Hiking tips ⏺️The weather in Yunnan's rainy season is changeable, remember to bring rain gear before you go! ⏺️Bird Diao Mountain is an undeveloped trail, with unstable signals throughout. Experienced hikers can download the trail map in advance on apps like Two Steps or Six Feet Outdoors. For those without hiking experience, it is recommended to find a guide to avoid getting lost. ⏺️Due to altitude changes and strong winds in the mountains, the climate is variable, so be sure to wear a windbreaker or windproof jacket. ⏺️There are no grocery stores or accommodations around Bird Diao Mountain, so be sure to prepare your trail meal and lunch in advance or pack for heavy camping. ⏺️Because the hiking route has many ups and downs, prepare knee protectors and trekking poles in advance, and manage your physical energy reasonably. Hiking equipment Normal light sportswear is fine, with conditions permitting, you can wear a hardshell jacket and pants, anti-slip sports shoes/hiking shoes, quick-dry T-shirts, sun hats, power banks, and a lightweight backpack (20-30L➕). Lunch: Bring a simple meal according to personal preference (sandwiches, burgers, eight-treasure porridge, marinated eggs, etc.). Trail meal: Nuts, fruits, beef jerky, etc.