Guide for Mt. Huashan Hiking at Night

Most tourists choose to climb Mount Huashan during the day, when they can enjoy the mountain scenery clearly and conquer some of the most dangerous trails. However, many visitors choose to climb the mountain at night so they can reach the peak before dawn to appreciate the gorgeous sunrise. Below, we recommend a classic Mt. Huashan hiking trail for climbing at night, things to pack and the best time for the night hike.
 Although Mount Huashan is known as one of the most dangerous mountains in China, safe trails have been built in recent years for regular visitors. At night, the Huashan hiking trail is not as dark as those on other mountains. There is a special Mt. Huashan hiking trail for climbing at night, well-lit with bright lights. Additionally, some dangerous intersections are guarded by staff in order to guide tourists in the right direction. It’s quite safe to climb Huashan trail at night.
 Jade Spring Temple at the foot of the mountain is the starting point. From there, continue your Mt. Huashan hiking via North Peak and finally arrive at the East Peak before dawn. It generally takes 5-6 hours to reach the East Peak, so you need to start at 22:00-23:00 the night before. After arriving and watching the sunrise, you can follow different trails to descend the mountain based on your energy level.
 Jade Spring Temple - North Peak - Sun-watching Platform at East Peak - West Peak Cableway - Tourist Center at mountain foot
 Jade Spring Temple - North Peak - Sun-watching Platform at East Peak - South Peak - West Peak Cableway - Tourist Center at mountain foot
 June to September is the best time to climb Mount Huashan at night, when it is not very cold at the summit. During this period, sunrise is usually around 5:30 in the morning.
 

1. Get a backpack of the right size and a pair of anti-skid shoes, as well as 2 pairs of slip-resistant gloves for gripping the iron chains. Disposable raincoats would be useful sometimes because of the changeable Huashan weather in the mountains.

2. From June to September, wear short sleeves or thin long sleeves, and carry a light down-filled coat. You can also rent a greatcoat on the mountain. In other months you need to wear relatively thick clothes; it can be very cold on the mountain, especially before dawn.

3. Cameras and watches are important items. PS: It’s not recommended you read your cell phone while climbing at night.

4. Bring some light, high calorie foods, such as chocolate and dried beef. Prepare no more than 2 L of mineral water to prevent the backpack from being  too heavy. You can buy bottled water along the way, although it is expensive.