Location & Accessibility

Maogong Mountain is nestled in the western foothills of Laoshan, about an hour’s drive from downtown Qingdao. The address is Qingfeng Community, Xifuxiang Street, Chengyang District, Qingdao, Shandong Province. To get there, you can take a taxi or rent a car—public transport isn’t very convenient, but the scenic drive through rural areas makes it worth it!

Natural Landscapes

Maogong Mountain covers 3.2 square kilometers and boasts over 70% forest coverage. The air here is crisp, and the trails are shaded by tall trees. The highest peak, Wangqiao Gu, stands at 427 meters, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

One of the highlights is the “Girl Gazing” rock—a natural formation that looks like a girl standing on tiptoe, staring into the distance. Another cool spot is “Sleeping Green Mountain”, where a giant rock resembles a person lying peacefully. The paths are lined with weird, gnarled rocks and moss-covered stones, making every step feel like a mini adventure.

Cultural Stories

The mountain’s name, Maogong Mountain, comes from a local legend: one of the peaks supposedly resembles Mao Zedong’s profile when viewed from a specific angle. (Pretty wild, right?) While it’s not a “must-see” for everyone, it’s a fun conversation starter. There’s also a small temple halfway up the mountain where hikers often rest and take in the quiet vibe.

Trails & Difficulty

The main trail is about 3 kilometers long, with some steep sections but nothing too crazy. Wear comfy shoes! Along the way, you’ll pass streams, wildflowers in spring, and red leaves in autumn. It’s a moderate hike—most people take 2–3 hours to finish, with plenty of spots to pause for photos or snacks.

Facilities

At the entrance, you’ll find a small parking lot and a few vendors selling water or snacks. Bring your own supplies if you plan to spend hours exploring. There aren’t many restaurants nearby, so pack a light picnic. The trails are well-marked, but bring a map just in case.

What to Bring

  • Water: Stay hydrated, especially in summer.
  • Snacks: Energy bars or fruit work great.
  • Sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, the sun can sneak up on you.
  • Camera: The views are Instagram-worthy!

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are perfect. Summer can be hot, and winter might be too chilly for long hikes. Avoid rainy days, as the trails can get slippery.

Local Tips

  • Go early! The morning light makes the rocks look even cooler, and you’ll beat the crowds.
  • If you’re visiting on a weekend, expect more families and groups. Weekdays are quieter.
  • Ask the friendly locals at the entrance for tips—they might point out hidden spots you’d miss otherwise.

Why You’ll Love It

Maogong Mountain isn’t crowded like Qingdao’s beaches, but it’s packed with nature’s quirks. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or just escaping the city, this place has a rustic charm. Plus, the mix of forests, rocks, and viewpoints makes it feel like a mini version of Laoshan—without the tourist rush.

Ready for a hike? Maogong Mountain waits for you!