Via Ferrata (Feilada) Rock Climbing in Liming Thousand Tortoises Mountain, Lijiang
Via Ferrata Overview
Via Ferrata, an Italian term meaning “iron path” or “iron way,” refers to climbing routes constructed on mountain rock faces, equipped with steel handrails, footholds, and safety cables. These routes enable individuals without climbing skills to ascend steep rock walls. Originating nearly a century ago during World War I in Italy, Via Ferrata was developed to allow military troops to quickly navigate mountain paths in the Dolomites. After the war, these routes became a boon for mountaineers, leading many European countries to establish their own Via Ferrata paths, promoting outdoor adventure sports.
After World War I, this method of climbing along iron cables became widely recognized and loved by the public, evolving into a popular sport across Europe.
Distribution of Via Ferrata
In Europe, there are over 500 Via Ferrata routes across countries like France, Switzerland, and Germany. In Malaysia, the via ferrata route opened in 2007 on Mount Kinabalu is claimed to be the first in Asia and is recognized as the highest Via Ferrata in the world. This climbing activity has developed into a popular sport in Europe, with millions participating annually. After 1990, Via Ferrata joined the ranks of trendy outdoor activities like mountain biking, canyoning, paragliding, and rafting, prompting local governments in France to invest in constructing Via Ferrata routes to attract tourists. Since 1998, climbing routes have rapidly expanded, spreading to Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Spain, Andorra, Malaysia, Canada, and the United States, becoming a major choice for family outdoor activities in Europe and America.
Features of Via Ferrata Routes
Via Ferrata routes preserve the excitement and thrill of outdoor rock climbing while providing a way to exercise both physically and mentally. They significantly lower the technical skill requirements for climbers, allowing ordinary people to enjoy climbing on cliffs with adequate safety measures, thus experiencing a great sense of achievement. Unlike traditional tourism resources and routes, Via Ferrata offers a more three-dimensional, spatial, and systematic development of natural landscapes.
In China, Via Ferrata projects are gradually developing, with locations such as Yunyang Longkuang in Chongqing, Wudang Daming Peak in Hubei, Huaihua Grand Canyon in Hunan, Bajiaozhai in Guilin, Yuewang Mountain in Guangdong, Tian Keng in Fengjie, Chongqing, and Subuya in Enshi all providing exciting Via Ferrata climbing experiences.
The primary domestic Via Ferrata locations include Heyuan in Guangdong, Yunyang in Chongqing, Enshi in Hubei, Wudang Mountain in Hubei, Jindaoxia in Chongqing, Danxia in Guilin, and Fengjie in Chongqing.
Introduction to Lijiang Liming Scenic Area
Liming, located in Lijiang, Yunnan Province, features high mountain Danxia landforms as its main characteristic. It primarily covers the administrative areas of Liming, Meile, and Liguang, with a total area of about 240 square kilometers. It is one of the four major areas of the Laojun Mountain Scenic Area. The mountains are characterized by “colors like ripe red, brilliant like Danxia,” with geological structures primarily composed of red gravel, sandstone, and mudstone, displaying various shades from deep red to light red.
Liming is over 120 kilometers from downtown Lijiang. Among its 300 square kilometers of land, more than 200 square kilometers feature Danxia landforms, making it the largest Danxia landform group in southwest China and one of the largest in the country. Legend has it that Taishang Laojun once refined alchemy on Laojun Mountain nearby, and the ever-burning flames spread to this area, giving rise to the red sandstone resembling precious red jewels.
Introduction to Via Ferrata Climbing on Laojun Mountain in Liming
Liming is located over 120 kilometers from Lijiang city. With over 200 square kilometers of Danxia landforms, it is the largest Danxia landform group in southwest China and one of the largest in the country. Liming is abundant in red stones, with every cliff and peak featuring red rock. Legend has it that Taishang Laojun refined alchemy on a nearby mountain, and the unquenchable flames spread to this area, resulting in the red sandstone. These formations stand out brilliantly amidst the dense green forests.
Laojun Mountain Liming Scenic Area, 120 kilometers from Lijiang Ancient Town, is renowned for its Danxia landforms, covering over 20 square kilometers. It features the highest and most professional Via Ferrata in the country. The Via Ferrata includes two routes: Route 1 and Route 2. Route 1 is designed to be 280 meters long, taking about 1 hour to climb, and is considered suitable for beginners. Route 2 has a length of 70 meters (suitable for advanced climbers) and takes about 2.5 hours to climb. For most people, experiencing Route 1 is sufficient. Route 2 is considered a challenging route and is not open to the general public, as there is no way to retreat once you start climbing. Route 1 is suitable for children over 5 years old (and taller than 120 cm) and adults, making it perfect for families with children, offering both thrill and an opportunity to build physical fitness and willpower. The journey from Lijiang takes over 2 hours along national highways, with acceptable road conditions but many curves, all amidst stunning scenery! Visitors can choose to stay in guesthouses or tent hotels in the scenic area. The next morning, after 9 AM, they can head to the Via Ferrata climbing area. From the tent hotel, it’s about a 20-minute walk over a bridge, with steps leading to the climbing site (tickets need to be purchased in advance at the main entrance of Laojun Mountain). After the climb, visitors can opt to take the cable car to tour Laojun Mountain. It is advisable to wear a long-sleeved jacket and sports shoes while climbing, and ensure that phones are held securely while taking pictures, or use clothes with pockets to hold them.
Features of Laojun Mountain Scenic Area
The Laojun Mountain area is famous for its Danxia landforms, with over 200 square kilometers of this landscape, making it one of the largest Danxia regions in the country. The area is home to the stunning Thousand Tortoise Mountain, characterized by large, weathered rocks resembling fish scales, which appear cracked like a tortoise shell. Beyond the natural scenery, the Via Ferrata climbing project is constructed with steel handrails, footholds, and safety cables, allowing those without climbing abilities to ascend steep rock walls. The beginner route is suitable for children over 5 and adults, making it perfect for family experiences, providing thrills while also building physical strength and willpower.
Duoji has previously attended a summer camp here and has fond memories. This year, for his birthday coinciding with the Dragon Boat Festival, he has been arranged to “come back to Laojun Mountain in Lijiang” as a birthday gift.
Via Ferrata Routes at Laojun Mountain
The Via Ferrata climbing routes at Laojun Mountain in the Liming Scenic Area consist of two routes:
- Anthony Via Ferrata Route One:
- Length: 280 meters
- Vertical Drop: 75 meters
- Elevation Range: 2400-2475 meters
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Climbing Duration: Approximately 1 hour
- This route is suitable for beginners.
- Anthony Via Ferrata Route Two:
- Length: 650 meters
- Vertical Drop: 180 meters
- Elevation Range: 2500-2680 meters
- Difficulty Level: Difficult
- Climbing Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
- This route tests one’s courage; once you start climbing, you can only proceed forward. Challengers should choose carefully.
Prices
- Route 1: 180 RMB/person
- Route 2: 300 RMB/person (cheaper when purchased online).
Important Notes
- Individuals with acrophobia or heart conditions are prohibited from participating.
- It is recommended to wear hiking shoes or non-slip footwear for climbing.
- Take precautions against sun exposure.
Scenic Attractions in Liming Scenic Area
Main Attractions:
- Thousand Tortoise Mountain: The rocks have a tortoise-shell appearance, creating a spectacular view of countless tortoises climbing up the gentle slopes. The surrounding Danxia rocks vary in shape and form, making for a stunning landscape.
- Lover’s Pillar: At the base of Thousand Tortoise Mountain, two giant stone pillars resemble a man and a woman embracing, representing a divine gift for pure and sincere love.
- Big Buddha Cliff: A huge rock resembling a seated Buddha on a lotus pedestal stands on a steep cliff, symbolizing the wisdom of the ages.
- Mongolian Yurt: The mountain’s shape resembles a traditional Mongolian yurt, with clear contours and distinct draping.
- Southern Sky Gate: Two steep, upright Danxia cliffs stand majestically facing each other, appearing as an open celestial gate amidst clouds and dense trees.
- Skyward Peak: The sharp red peaks rise steeply, resembling knives or swords piercing the sky.
- Camel Peak: Located about 6 kilometers south of Liming Village, this mountain resembles a camel resting on the ground, appearing calm and serene.
- Five-Finger Mountain: Near Liming Village, the mountain resembles outstretched fingers reaching for the sky, with colorful rock walls displaying a magnificent golden sheen at sunset.
- Arhat Cave: South of Five-Finger Mountain, this cave features rich history and cultural significance.
In summary, the Via Ferrata experience at Laojun Mountain in Liming combines thrilling outdoor adventure with breathtaking natural beauty, suitable for families and adventure seekers alike. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature while engaging in an exciting climbing challenge.
