Location & Access

Hongluosanxian (Red Screw Three Dangers) sits in the northwest of Huangshan Dian Village, Zhoukoudian Town, Fangshan District, Beijing. It’s about a 90-minute drive from downtown Beijing, near the famous Zhoukoudian Peking Man Site. To get there, you can take a tourist bus to Fangshan and then a local taxi or rent a car for flexibility. The winding mountain road leads right to the trailhead, so GPS is your best friend!

Natural Wonders

This spiral-shaped mountain rises in three steep tiers, like a giant red screw twisting skyward. Each level has narrow paths carved into cliffs—hence the name “Three Dangers”. Legend says the area was once an ocean, and a massive red sea snail (红螺) blocked a “sea eye” (an underground spring) here. When the snail turned to stone, its shell became the mountain, with sunlight reflecting off its “scales” to paint the sky red. Today, the rocky layers still glow warmly at sunrise and sunset.

The trails are shaded by ancient pine trees, cedars, and oaks. In autumn, eight types of maple leaves turn the slopes into a rainbow of reds and oranges. Wildflowers bloom year-round, and a crystal-clear stream runs through the valley—perfect for a refreshing break.

Cultural Treasures

Since the Ming Dynasty, Hongluosanxian has been a sacred site. At the base, Zhuyuan Temple (a bamboo temple) offers quiet reflection. Midway up, Jile Temple clings to the cliffside, while the upper tier holds tiny cave-temples. Locals say every cave here was once a shrine, and old stone tablets and pagodas still dot the paths. Even if you’re not religious, the centuries-old architecture blends beautifully with the rugged landscape.

Hiking Tips & Facilities

The climb is steep but rewarding. Wear grippy shoes—the stone steps can get slippery. Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen. There’s a small parking lot at the entrance, plus basic stalls selling drinks and light meals. For overnight stays, nearby villages offer homestays where you can try rural Chinese dishes like jianbing (savory crepes) and roasted corn.

The Adventure Experience

Hiking Hongluosanxian feels like stepping into a legend. You’ll scramble up spiral paths, peek through caves, and pause on cliffs to gaze over the surrounding hills. The mix of nature, history, and mystery makes it unlike any other Beijing day trip. Just be prepared to sweat—and grab those Instagram-worthy shots of the red-rock formations!

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