Climbing Kunlun Mountain in Heshan: A Devilishly Steep Challenge That Nearly Made Me Puke

### 📍 Trip Highlights 1️⃣ Rope Climbing: Conquer the 300-meter "Despair Slope" Despite its modest 603-meter elevation, Kunlun Mountain boasts an incredibly steep ridgeline! The 300-meter section of nearly 70° loose gravel slope is particularly challenging, requiring you to use both hands and feet while relying on ropes for support (the guide will provide gloves and ropes). Halfway up, my legs were shaking so badly I questioned my life choices, and a fellow hiker was on the verge of vomiting… But the panoramic view of the Xijiang River from the summit made it all worthwhile! 2️⃣ Stunning Ridgeline: 100% Instagrammable The ridgeline is flanked by cliffs and lush, Oz-like shrubs. On a clear day, the sea of clouds seems within reach, making every shot look like a National Geographic masterpiece! Along the way, you can also visit the Liu Sanjie Temple, where the red walls and ancient trees evoke a sense of martial arts chivalry. 3️⃣ Hidden Gem: Paddlefish Feast After descending, head straight to the farm for the must-try Qi Weng Jing paddlefish! This 300-million-year-old "living fossil" fish has incredibly tender, tofu-like flesh and so few bones you can practically swallow it whole. Steamed with spring water is the way to go – it's an explosion of flavor! --- ### 🎒 Essential Packing List ✅ Lifesavers: Non-slip hiking shoes (regular sneakers will make you cry), gloves (for climbing), knee pads (downhill is brutal on the knees), hiking poles ✅ Supplies: 2L of water + electrolyte drinks (you'll sweat buckets), chocolate/energy bars (to prevent low blood sugar) ✅ Sun & Bug Protection: Hat + arm sleeves (no shade on the ridgeline), mosquito repellent (the shrubs are infested with vicious mosquitoes!) ❌ Don't Wear: Light-colored clothes! Dirt + sweat will make you look like you've wrestled in a mud pit… --- ### 🚶♀️ Route Guide ⏰ Time: The entire route is about 11 km and takes 6-8 hours (beginners should join a group; 1778 Outdoor Group is highly recommended) 📍 Route: Hecheng Town trailhead → Devil's Slope ridgeline → Liu Sanjie Temple for lunch → Qi Weng Jing Farm for dinner 💡 Tips: - Going up: Lean forward, grip the ropes firmly, and step securely into the crevices between the loose rocks - Going down: Use a sideways, zig-zag approach and rely on your hiking poles for support (or your knees will pay the price) - Photo spots: The giant rocks at the summit, the red walls of Liu Sanjie Temple, the corners of the ridgeline --- ### ⚠️ Lessons Learned the Hard Way Don't eat too much for lunch! Strenuous exercise can lead to nausea. Recommended snacks: eight-treasure porridge + cherry tomatoes Stay close to the guide! Some sections have no signal, and it's easy to get lost on the many岔roads (hikers have been known to get lost overnight) --- ### 🍜 Foodie Bonus After descending, go boating and enjoy some sweet treats in Gulao Water Village. The ginger milk curd near the Liang Zan Former Residence is highly recommended – the ginger spice is amazing! You can also check out the 360° glass house (but don't trespass on private property) --- 💬 Real Talk "Halfway up, I was crying and cursing; at the summit, I was laughing and taking pictures." —That's the magic of Kunlun Mountain! Tip: Beginners should visit in autumn or winter (less rain, less slippery). Avoid the rainy season.