Autumn Colors Shroud Zheyang Mountain

Deep in the canyon, autumn sunlight filters through the colorful forest like scattered gold, the stream sings as it steps on fallen leaves, and every turn brings a surprise of autumn. In the southwest of Zhang County, Gansu, there is a place especially favored by nature—Zheyang Mountain. Named because it is "blocked by the mountain at sunrise," when the autumn wind blows through the junction of the western end of the Qinling Mountains and the Min Mountains, this national forest park reveals its most charming scenery. Early autumn at Zheyang Mountain still features green as the main color, but it is deeper than in summer. Some leaves begin to turn slightly yellow, some are tinged with deep red, as if nature has casually sprinkled paint, dressing the entire forest in enchanting colors. --- 01 Xixi Autumn Scenery, the Essence of Zheyang Mountain Entering the Zheyang Mountain scenic area feels like stepping into an autumn fairy tale. The Xixi scenic area, as the essence of Zheyang Mountain, is the highlight of this trip. Walking along the stone slab boardwalk, the stream babbles, strange peaks stand tall, and the scenery changes with every step, dazzling the eyes. The terrain is steep, the canyon deep, rock walls reveal various unique views, and the water surface ripples layer upon layer. The three-tiered waterfall and Xiushi Waterfall either cascade down or flow gently. Though not as spectacular as "the Milky Way falling from the Ninth Heaven," it still embodies the mood of "mountain light delights the birds, and the pool’s reflection empties the human heart." 02 Millennium Ladder, the Joy of Climbing Continuing along the stone path, you will reach the famous 1,000-meter ladder of Zheyang Mountain. The ladder canyon is 1,000 meters long, with a 60-degree slope and 1,858 steps, flanked by cliffs thousands of feet high, earning the reputation that "one is not a hero without climbing the ladder." After climbing the ladder, you arrive at the South Heavenly Gate, a narrow canyon entrance that only allows one person to pass at a time. If you can climb up here, the view outside is truly a "hidden paradise on earth." 03 Summit Grassland, an Unexpected Surprise Passing through the South Heavenly Gate means you have reached the summit, where the view suddenly opens wide. At the top, you can see a green carpet-like grassland stretching endlessly. The broad, flat grassland blooms with unknown flowers, and when the autumn breeze blows, the fresh air is filled with a teasing fragrance. Cattle and sheep graze leisurely on the grassland. Walking on the summit grassland, you can ride horses or smell the flowers—this place can heal all your unhappiness. 04 Historical Imprints, Song and Ming Dynasty Stone Inscriptions Zheyang Mountain was a famous tourist destination in Long during the Song, Yuan, and Ming dynasties. On the "Poetry Cliff" by the Qianzhang Pool, there are several stone inscriptions from the Song and Ming periods. Though the inscriptions are old and hard to read, the "Xixi" and "Yunsou Cave" carved by the famous Northern Song poet Zhang Shunmin are still clearly visible. If you visit Xixi, try to find them and see if you can spot them. Records also mention the Three Drunken Stones of Lü Dongbin and the eternal mystery of Zhang Sanfeng’s disappearance, adding rich cultural significance to this natural mountain. --- Travel Practical Guide Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Zheyang Mountain is from May to October. From September to October, the autumn colors are brilliant, with forests dyed in layers, offering a unique charm. Transportation · Self-driving: Depart from Lanzhou, enter from Lanzhou South Expressway Toll Station, exit at Zheyang Mountain Toll Station, about 2 hours in total. · Public Transport: Take a bus to Zhang County Bus Station for about 3 hours, then transfer to a bus to Zheyang Mountain Scenic Area. Accommodation Recommendation Zheyang Mountain Mingzhu Hotel is located at the foot of the mountain. The hotel offers various types of rooms to meet the needs of different travelers. Open the door and you can see the beautiful scenery of Zheyang Mountain. Helpful Tips · Some sections of the scenic area require using both hands and feet; please wear comfortable hiking shoes. · There is a large temperature difference between morning and evening; it is recommended to bring warm clothing. · If your stamina is limited, consider riding a horse down the mountain to experience a different charm. --- As dusk falls, I sit by the path down the mountain and look back. The stream in the mountain ravine rushes out from the cracks in the rocks, like a beautiful symphony played by nature. The breeze rustles the leaves, as if a romantic "Autumn Whisper" flows through the mountains. At this moment, I finally understand why it is said that Zheyang Mountain is filled to the brim with autumn—it has packed autumn colors into the canyon, into the stream, into every changing leaf, and into the heart of every visitor.