Overview
Hidden between Songpan and Jiuzhaigou, Qizanggou is one of Western Sichuan’s best-kept trekking secrets. Over five days, we combine cultural exploration in historic Songpan with a three-day wilderness traverse through alpine lakes, high mountain passes, forests, and remote grasslands.
Hiking approximately 42 kilometers, you’ll camp beside Changhaizi and Hongxinghai, cross a 4,200-meter mountain pass, and experience landscapes that many travelers never see.
This route is ideal for active travelers looking for an authentic Sichuan trekking adventure beyond the usual tourist paths.
Highlights
- Walk through one of Western Sichuan's most untouched trekking valleys.
- Camp beside Changhaizi and Hongxinghai under clear plateau skies.
- Cross Changhai Yakou at over 4,200 meters with panoramic mountain views.
- Experience the changing landscapes of forests, alpine lakes, wetlands, and grasslands.
- Explore the historic streets and Tibetan-influenced culture of Songpan Ancient Town.
- Enjoy a fully supported trekking experience with campsite meals included.
Itinerary
Day 1: Chengdu → Songpan
Distance: Approx. 330 km by private vehicle
Driving Time: 6–8 hours
Altitude: Chengdu (500m) → Songpan (2,850m)
The Experience:
Today, we leave Chengdu behind and begin our journey toward the mountains of northern Sichuan.
After meeting your driver at your hotel, we travel by private vehicle through a changing landscape of river valleys, forested mountains, and Tibetan-influenced communities. The drive typically takes 6-8 hours, but the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as we gain elevation and enter the transition zone between the Sichuan Basin and the eastern Tibetan Plateau.
We arrive in Songpan in the afternoon or early evening. Once an important military and trading town on the ancient Tea Horse Road, Songpan still preserves much of its historic character.
After checking into our hotel, you have time to stroll along the old city walls, explore traditional streets, or relax and prepare for the trek ahead.
The first day is also important for adjusting to the altitude. At over 2,800 meters above sea level, Songpan provides a gentle introduction to the higher elevations we will encounter in Qizanggou. We recommend taking things easy, staying hydrated, and enjoying a local dinner before settling in for the night.
Highlights
- Scenic private transfer from Chengdu to Songpan
- Historic atmosphere of Songpan Ancient Town
- First views of the eastern Tibetan Plateau
- Time to acclimatize before trekking
Tips
- Drink plenty of water after arrival
- Avoid strenuous activity on your first evening
- Prepare your trekking gear before bedtime
- Overnight: Songpan Ancient Town
Day 2: Trekking | Songpan → Chuanzhusi → Kakagou Entrance → Changhaizi Campsite
Trekking Distance: Approx. 17 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Altitude: Kakagou Entrance (3,500m) → Changhaizi Campsite (3,750m)
Elevation Gain: Approx. +250m
The Experience:
After breakfast, we drive north to Chuanzhusi and continue to the Kakagou entrance, where our trek officially begins at approximately 3,500 meters above sea level.
The trail gradually leads us into the remote landscapes of Qizanggou, a valley often described as a quieter and wilder alternative to Jiuzhaigou.
Today’s hike covers roughly 17 kilometers and usually takes 6-8 hours. We walk through forests, mountain meadows, and increasingly open alpine terrain while steadily gaining elevation.
Along the way, we begin to understand why this valley has become a favorite among experienced hikers and photographers. Unlike many famous scenic areas in China, Qizanggou remains largely undeveloped, allowing nature to take center stage.
By late afternoon, we arrive at Changhaizi, a beautiful alpine lake sitting at around 3,750 meters. Surrounded by mountains and peaceful wilderness, it provides a spectacular setting for our first campsite.
After settling into camp, we enjoy a freshly prepared dinner while watching the changing light over the lake before spending the night under the stars.
Highlights
- Enter the wilderness of Qizanggou Valley
- Hike through forests and alpine meadows
- Reach beautiful Changhaizi Lake
- First night of mountain camping
Tips
- Pace yourself and walk steadily at altitude
- Keep a rain jacket accessible throughout the day
- Charge electronic devices before leaving Songpan
- Overnight: Changhaizi Campsite
- Meals: Campsite Dinner
Day 3: Trekking | Changhaizi Campsite → Changhaizi → Yuhaizi → Caohai → Hongxinghai Xiafang Campsite
Trekking Distance: Approx. 15 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Altitude: Changhaizi Campsite (3,750m) → Changhai Yakou (4,200m) → Xiafang Campsite (3,600m)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +450m / -600m
The Experience:Â
Today is often considered the most scenic day of the entire trek. After breakfast at camp, we continue deeper into Qizanggou, passing a series of alpine lakes and high-altitude landscapes that few international travelers ever experience.
We begin by following trails around Changhaizi before gradually climbing toward Changhai Yakou, the highest point of the route at approximately 4,200 meters. The effort is rewarded with wide views across surrounding mountains, forests, and valleys.
From the pass, we descend toward Yuhaizi and continue to Caohai, a peaceful wetland area where seasonal wildflowers and grasses create a completely different atmosphere from the rocky highlands above.
As the afternoon progresses, we reach Hongxinghai, one of the most photographed lakes in Qizanggou. Its vivid colors and mountain backdrop make it a highlight for many hikers.
A short walk beyond the lake brings us to Xiafang Campsite at around 3,600 meters, where we enjoy dinner and another unforgettable night in the wilderness.
Highlights
- Cross Changhai Yakou at 4,200 meters
- Visit Yuhaizi and Caohai wetlands
- Experience the iconic scenery of Hongxinghai
- Spectacular mountain and lake photography opportunities
Tips
- Bring extra layers for the high pass
- Trekking poles help on steep sections
- Protect cameras and electronics from sudden weather changes
- Overnight: Hongxinghai Xiafang Campsite
- Meals: Campsite Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Trekking | Hongxinghai Xiafang Campsite → Hongxinghai → Yuhaizi → Awenggou → Songpan
Trekking Distance: Approx. 10 km
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Altitude: Xiafang Campsite (3,600m) → Awenggou Exit (Approx. 3,100m) → Songpan (2,850m)
Elevation Loss: Approx. -500m
The Experience:
Today’s hike covers approximately 10 kilometers and generally takes 4-6 hours. The route leads us through forests and open mountain terrain as we retrace part of the trail toward Yuhaizi before continuing to Awenggou, where our trek comes to an end.
Along the way, we have time to appreciate how dramatically the scenery changes throughout Qizanggou, from high mountain lakes to lower forested valleys.
Upon reaching the trail exit, our private vehicle will be waiting to transfer us back to Songpan. Returning to a comfortable hotel after several days in the wilderness is always a rewarding feeling.
The evening is yours to relax, enjoy a hot meal, and reflect on one of Sichuan’s most memorable trekking experiences.
Highlights
- Sunrise scenery around Hongxinghai
- Final hike through Qizanggou landscapes
- Reach Awenggou and complete the trek
- Comfortable return to Songpan
Tips
- Keep your camera ready for morning reflections
- Save some energy for the final descent
- Enjoy a well-earned hot shower back in town
- Overnight: Songpan Ancient Town
- Meals: Campsite Breakfast
Day 5: Songpan → Chengdu
Distance: Approx. 330 km by private vehicle
Driving Time: 6–8 hours
Altitude: Songpan (2,850m) → Chengdu (500m)
The Experience:
This morning, we leave Songpan and begin our return journey to Chengdu by private vehicle. The drive offers one last opportunity to admire the mountain scenery of northern Sichuan and reflect on the experiences of the past few days.
By the afternoon or evening, we will arrive in Chengdu and transfer you directly to your hotel.
Although the trek may be over, the memories of alpine lakes, mountain passes, star-filled campsites, and remote valleys will stay with you long after the journey ends.
Highlights
- Scenic return drive through northern Sichuan
Tips
- Keep essentials accessible during the drive
- Plan a relaxing evening after arrival
- Consider adding extra Chengdu sightseeing before departure
- Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
- Songpan: 2 Nights
- Changhaizi Campsite: 1 Night
- Xiafang Campsite: 1 Night
This itinerary includes 4 nights of accommodation, combining comfortable local hotels with authentic wilderness camping in Qizanggou.
In Songpan, we stay in a carefully selected local hotel or boutique guesthouse in Songpan Ancient Town. Our preferred properties offer comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, heating during colder months, and convenient access to the old town’s restaurants, cafés, and historic streets.
At Changhaizi and Hongxinghai campsites, we provide quality camping equipment and freshly prepared campsite meals. Surrounded by alpine lakes, forests, and mountain scenery, these remote camps offer a true wilderness experience that few travelers encounter in China. Falling asleep beneath the stars and waking up to the quiet beauty of the valley are among the highlights of the journey.
As with all QuietRoutes journeys, this itinerary is 100% tailor-made. While the camping arrangements inside Qizanggou follow a fixed trekking setup, we can customize your Songpan accommodation based on your preferences, from comfortable local hotels to higher-end boutique stays. We can also adjust pre- or post-trek arrangements, transportation, and other travel services to match your travel style and needs.
Cost
Included
- Private vehicle transfers Chengdu → Songpan → Chengdu
- Professional driver throughout the route
- Expert English-speaking local guide
- 2 nights of accommodation in Songpan with breakfast
- Basic camping equipment during trekking days
- Two campsite breakfasts
- Two campsite dinners
- Trekking support and route coordination
- Travel insurance
Excluded
- International or domestic flights to Chengdu
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, or support staff
Transportation
- Private Vehicle (Chengdu ↔ Songpan)
- Private Vehicle (Songpan ↔ Trailheads)
- Trekking about 42km
Essential Tips
- Arrive with basic hiking experience and reasonable fitness.
- Spend the first night in Songpan to help your body adjust to the altitude.
- Temperatures can change quickly in the mountains; layered clothing is essential.
- Trekking poles are highly recommended for mountain passes and descents.
- Mobile signal is limited inside Qizanggou.
- Weather conditions may affect hiking times and campsite locations.
Gallery
FAQ
Is this trek suitable for beginners?
The route is considered moderate. Previous multi-day trekking experience is helpful, but active travelers with good fitness can usually complete it comfortably.
What is the highest altitude on this trek?
The highest point is Changhai Yakou at approximately 4,200 meters above sea level.
Do I need to carry all my camping equipment?
No. We can arrange support services and luggage assistance depending on your preferred trekking style.
When is the best time to hike Qizanggou?
June to October is generally the best season. September and October are especially popular for stable weather and colorful autumn scenery.
Are there toilets and facilities along the route?
Facilities are very limited inside the valley. This is a genuine wilderness trekking experience.
Can families join this route?
The trek is better suited for teenagers and adults with good physical fitness. Younger children may find the hiking distances challenging.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Some travelers may feel mild altitude symptoms. Spending time in Songpan before the trek and maintaining a steady hiking pace helps with acclimatization.
Can this route be customized?
Absolutely. We can adjust trekking distances, add extra camping nights, arrange hotel upgrades, or combine the trek with Jiuzhaigou, Huanglong, or Western Sichuan destinations.
Reviews
No reviews. Be the first to leave a review.
