Guizhou Province, with its rugged karst mountains, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls, is a hiker’s paradise in Southwest China. Often overshadowed by more famous destinations, Guizhou’s trails offer a mix of challenging ascents, stunning vistas, and cultural encounters with ethnic minority villages. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual walker, here are some of the best hiking trails in Guizhou to explore in 2025.

Top Hiking Trails in Guizhou

1. Fanjingshan (Mount Fanjing)
   • Location: Tongren, northeastern Guizhou
   • Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
   • Distance: 8-10 km round trip (via steps and trails)
   • Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sacred Buddhist mountain rises to 2,570 meters. Hike 8,000+ stone steps to reach the summit, where twin temples perch atop a dramatic rock spire. Misty peaks, rare golden monkeys, and panoramic views reward your effort.
   • Duration: 6-8 hours
   • Tip: Take the cable car up (20 minutes) and hike down to save energy.
2. Huangguoshu Waterfall Scenic Area
   • Location: Near Anshun, 150 km southwest of Guiyang
   • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
   • Distance: 3-5 km (loop trails)
   • Highlights: Beyond the famous Huangguoshu Waterfall, trails connect Doupotang and Tianxingqiao falls. Wander through bamboo groves, karst caves, and stone forests, with the roar of water as your soundtrack.
   • Duration: 2-4 hours
   • Tip: Wear waterproof gear for the Water-Curtain Cave path behind Huangguoshu.
3. Maling River Canyon
   • Location: Near Xingyi, Qianxinan Prefecture
   • Difficulty: Moderate
   • Distance: 5-10 km (varies by route)
   • Highlights: This deep canyon features trails along cliffs dotted with dozens of waterfalls. The “Pearl Waterfall” section offers suspension bridges and lush greenery. It’s less steep than Fanjingshan but still immersive.
   • Duration: 4-6 hours
   • Tip: Combine with rafting for a full adventure.
4. Jiuzhaigou-Style Trails in Libo
   • Location: Qiannan Prefecture, near Libo
   • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
   • Distance: 7-12 km (Xiaoqikong and Daqikong loops)
   • Highlights: Part of the Zhangjiang Scenic Area, these trails wind through turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and karst peaks. Xiaoqikong’s Seven-Arch Bridge and Daqikong’s wilder terrain are standouts.
   • Duration: 4-7 hours
   • Tip: Spring or autumn for vibrant colors; summer can be slippery.
5. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Snow Mountain)
   • Location: Near Lijiang, on the Guizhou-Yunnan border (accessible from Guizhou)
   • Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
   • Distance: 10-15 km (depending on route)
   • Highlights: While technically in Yunnan, it’s a popular add-on from Guizhou’s northwest. Hike to 4,506 meters for snow-capped views, alpine meadows, and Naxi minority culture.
   • Duration: 6-9 hours
   • Tip: Acclimatize to altitude; oxygen cans are available.
6. Wuyang River Trail
   • Location: Near Zhenyuan, eastern Guizhou
   • Difficulty: Easy
   • Distance: 4-6 km
   • Highlights: A gentle riverside walk with views of karst hills, ancient bridges, and the historic town of Zhenyuan. Less intense, it’s perfect for combining nature with culture.
   • Duration: 2-3 hours
   • Tip: Visit the Black Dragon Cave nearby.

Why Hike in Guizhou?

• Diverse Terrain: Karst peaks, canyons, and river valleys offer varied challenges and scenery.
• Cultural Bonus: Trails often pass Miao, Dong, or Buyi villages, adding an ethnic dimension.
• Untouched Nature: Less crowded than trails in Sichuan or Yunnan, Guizhou feels wild and pristine.
• Accessibility: Most trails are within a few hours of Guiyang, the provincial hub.

Travel Tips

• Best Time: March-May (spring blooms) or September-October (clear skies, cool weather). Summer is lush but rainy; winter can be icy on high trails.
• Getting There: Fly to Guiyang, then use buses, trains, or private tours (e.g., HelloChinaTrip at hellochinatrip.com) to trailheads. Fanjingshan is 4 hours from Guiyang; Huangguoshu is 2 hours.
• Gear: Sturdy hiking shoes, rain gear, water, and snacks. Poles help on steep trails like Fanjingshan.
• Cost: Entry fees range from $10-$25 (e.g., Fanjingshan ~$20, Huangguoshu ~$20); budget $50-$100/day with transport.

Standout Features

• Fanjingshan’s spiritual summit and rare wildlife.
• Huangguoshu’s misty trails and waterfall proximity.
• Maling’s cascading cliffs and adventurous vibe.

Why They’re Special

Guizhou’s hiking trails blend physical challenge with jaw-dropping beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re scaling sacred peaks or strolling by waterfalls, these paths reveal a side of China that’s raw, serene, and unforgettable.