Paradise Peak Scenic Area sits inside the Stone Gate National Forest Park in Conghua District, Guangzhou. It’s the highest point in Guangzhou at 1,210 meters, making it a hiker’s dream. To get there, drive from downtown Guangzhou for about 2 hours—head toward Conghua and follow signs to Stone Gate Park. If you’re not driving, take a bus to Conghua and grab a taxi or local ride-share to the park’s entrance. Once inside, it’s a 3-hour hike to the summit, but the views are worth every step!

Natural Scenery: A Mountain Lover’s Paradise

Paradise Peak is part of the Nankun Mountain range and shares its borders with lush forests, rivers, and valleys. The air here is crisp—about 15°C year-round—and the landscape changes with the seasons. In winter, frost covers the trees, and sometimes snow dusts the peaks! From the top, you’ll spot forests stretching as far as the eye can see, cloud seas that look like cotton candy, and sunrises that paint the sky pink. On clear days, you can even see landmarks like the Liuxi River, Nankun Mountain, and the Conghua Hot Springs from above.

Hiking Tips & What to Expect

The trail to Paradise Peak is steep but well-marked. Bring waterproof gear and layers—it gets chilly at the summit. Along the way, you’ll pass smaller peaks like Heaven’s Second Peak, Monkey’s Forehead, and Horizontal Pit Peak, which together form the “Four Great Peaks.” These spots offer breathtaking sunsets, with shadows stretching across the mountains. Don’t miss the panorama viewpoints where you can snap photos of the forest sea below.

Wildlife & Ecosystem

Paradise Peak is alive with nature. The forest is packed with ancient trees, and if you’re lucky, you might spot wild monkeys or birds like hornbills. The area’s cool climate means plants stay fresh year-round, and in spring, wildflowers blanket the slopes. Keep an eye out for rare mosses and ferns clinging to rocks—it’s like stepping into a living postcard!

Nearby Attractions & Culture

After your hike, check out nearby spots like the Conghua Hot Springs (perfect for relaxing sore muscles) or the Pumped Storage Power Station, a engineering marvel nestled in the mountains. The Nankun Mountain area also has temples and villages where you can try local food. If you visit in winter, the frost-covered trees create a scene straight out of a fairy tale!

Practical Details: Plan Your Trip

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) for mild weather. Winter (December–February) for snow lovers.
  • Stay Options: Book a lodge inside Stone Gate Park or stay in Conghua town. Camping is allowed at designated areas.
  • Food: Pack snacks for hiking, but try local mountain mushrooms, bamboo rice, and herbal chicken soup at park cafes.
  • Tips: Wear hiking boots, bring warm clothes, and start early to avoid afternoon clouds.

Why You’ll Love Paradise Peak

This isn’t just a hike—it’s an adventure through Guangzhou’s wild side. Whether you’re chasing sunrises, cloud oceans, or ancient forests, Paradise Peak offers a break from city life. And standing atop the highest point in Guangzhou? That’s a bragging-rights kind of moment. Just remember: the earlier you start, the more magic you’ll catch!