Baoshan Stone Village Pt. 2

Baoshan Stone Village Pt. 2

The journey from Baoshan Stone Village to Yanke offers a choice between a high-stakes cliffside trek and a serene river voyage. For those who choose the trail, the route follows an ancient donkey path—a remnant of the Tea Horse Road—that clings to the gorge walls roughly 130 to 140 meters above the Yangtze. This “scary path” features overhanging cliffs and sheer drops that require a steady head for heights, though the trail itself is wide enough for safe passage. Along the way, hikers might even pick up a local “trail dog” companion while navigating the silent, remote landscape. The hike is approximately 7 km long and involves a significant climb before descending into the fragrant farmlands surrounding Yanke, a segment where a guide is highly recommended to navigate the unmarked turns.

Alternatively, the journey can be made by arranging a local ferry boat, which requires a 40-minute descent down well-groomed stone steps from Baoshan to the river’s edge. The hour-long boat ride provides a breathtaking perspective of the towering gorges from the water, accompanied by a cooling breeze. Once dropped off below Yanke, the transition back to land involves a steep, 2-km climb through terraced orchards and paddy fields where the air is thick with the scent of perfume flowers and ripening oranges. Whether arriving by land or water, the experience culminates in the “Shangri-La” atmosphere of Yanke, where the day concludes with a traditional Naxi hotpot amidst the sights and sounds of a peaceful harvest.

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DIRECTIONS

1. Hire a Private Driver from Lijiang There is no direct public tourist bus to the trailhead. You must hire a private driver or “charter” a van from Lijiang Old Town.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours on winding, high-altitude roads.

2. Overnight in Baoshan Stone Village To start the Yanke leg fresh, stay overnight in Baoshan. The village is built on a massive mushroom-shaped rock. Check into a guesthouse with a river view to acclimatize to the 2,500m altitude.

3. Exit via the Baoshan Fields Start your morning by walking out through the terraced fields surrounding the village. Look for the ancient “donkey trail”—part of the old Tea Horse Road—that leads north along the gorge.

4. Navigate the Overhanging Cliffs The trail becomes a “canyon walk” cut directly into the rock. While the path is wide enough for a person and a donkey, the drops are severe (roughly 140 meters).

Tip: If you have a fear of heights, this section is mentally taxing; keep your eyes on the path and maintain a steady pace.

5. Look for the “Trail Dog” and Red Ribbons As noted by the Drone and Phone team, the trail is remote. Local village dogs often “guide” hikers for water or snacks. Keep an eye out for red ribbons tied to trees to confirm you are on the right track.

6. The Final Ascent into the Orchards After about 5 km of gorge walking, the trail turns upward. You will climb away from the river into a lush, green area filled with fruit trees and “perfume flowers.” The scent is a famous hallmark of the approach to Yanke.

7. Arrive at Yanke Village (岩可村) The hike ends as you descend into the village farmlands. Yanke is even more secluded than Baoshan and feels like a true “Shangri-La” with its traditional Naxi agriculture and quiet atmosphere.

8. Option: The Yangtze Boat Ride If you prefer the water, walk 40 minutes down the stone steps from Baoshan to the river. You can hire a local ferry to take you an hour upriver.

The Climb: If you take the boat, you must hike 2 km uphill from the riverbank to reach Yanke village.

9. The Post-Hike Hotpot Celebrate the 7-km journey with a Naxi hotpot in a Yanke village eatery. This is the local way to refuel before the long drive back to the city.

10. Return Trip to Lijiang You must have your driver meet you at the Yanke road-head. There is no “taxi stand” here. The Drive Back: It is a 4.5 to 5-hour drive back to Lijiang. Ensure you leave by 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM to avoid driving the narrow mountain passes in total darkness.

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