Shennongjia Expedition

Itinerary: Yichang- Xiaodangyang - Laojun Hill - Lianghekou - Shennongding - Dajiu Lake - Yichang

China is vast in area and rich in natural resources, so there are numerous fascinating places that can arouse your interest. Besides trekking along the splendid Three Gorges, you can follow our suggested route farther to Shennongjia for more fresh experiences. The scenery during June and October is the most beautiful and attractive, so it is best to plan your hiking in Shennongjia during those times.

On the first day, take a coach to Muyu, where Shennongjia scenic spots are at Yichang Coach Station. There are two buses that run between Yichang and Muyuan every day. One departs at 06:00 and the other leaves at 13:30 according to the timetable.  You may dial 0717-6445314 for more information. It is also an option to take the coach to Xingshan first (at every half-hour), and then take the bus from Xingshan to Muyu. It is about a 3 1/2 hours drive from Yichang to Xingshan, and a 1 1/3 hours drive from Xingshan to Muyu. Six kilometers away from Muyu is Xiaodangyang, with an elevation of 952 meters. You can take a 10-minute bus ride to Xiaodangyang at Muyuping. Xiaodangyang not only boasts the old botanic garden of Shennongjia but preserve many old plants, of which the most famous is the Tiejian fir, which is 1000 years old. Take the bus to Amituofo and spend one hour hiking to High Hill Meadow. Stay overnight there in your own tent. You will be in the company of the bright stars and twittering cuckoos in this peaceful atmosphere. You can imagine how wonderful it is.

On the second morning, hike along the mountain ridge to reach the summit of Laojun Hill. Traverse the black pinewoods virgin forest and descend to Laojun cave. It is estimated that you need to spend 8 hours today trekking. Lodge beside the brook.

On the third day, you are advised to hike from Baiyanwu to Lianghekou. En route, you will pass by Canghuangling.  Climb the mountain and return to the road. You need to spend 8 hours' hiking if you follow our suggested route. You can have an overnight stay at the Muyu Guest House. It is about CNY50.00 per room per night for a twin room.

There are about 35 kilometers between Muyu and Shennongding. We suggest you leave Muyu at about 08:00. Buy the entrance tickets and enter the scenic spots. As for lunch, you may pack some convenient food and have a picnic on your own or dine in the restaurant. The food may not be as good as you expect. In the afternoon, you will arrive at Dajiu Lake. Stay overnight there.

On the fifth day, take about 3 hours to hike and explore Dajiu Lake. After lunch, you can pack your luggage as well as your unforgettable memories and return to Yichang by bus. The tough but pleasant hiking stops here.