Shanghai-hiking-areas

Discovering the Great Outdoors: Best Hiking Areas in Shanghai

While Shanghai is known for its bustling streets and futuristic skyline, it’s also a city surrounded by natural beauty. Just a short trip from the city center, you can find yourself immersed in lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic lakes. Here are the best hiking areas in Shanghai to escape the urban jungle:

1. Tianmu Shan ()

Located about an hour and a half west of Shanghai, Tianmu Shan is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning scenery and well-marked trails. The mountain offers several routes of varying difficulty, including the challenging 10km hike to the summit.

  • Getting There: Take bus 165 from Shanghai South Railway Station or drive via G15 Shenyang-Shanghai Expressway
  • Trail Length: 5-20 km
  • Difficulty: Easy to Challenging

2. Jinshan Scenic Area ()

About an hour south of Shanghai, Jinshan Scenic Area offers a range of hiking trails that wind through forests, along beaches, and up hills. The area is also home to several ancient temples and scenic viewpoints.

  • Getting There: Take bus 158 from Shanghai South Railway Station or drive via G15 Shenyang-Shanghai Expressway
  • Trail Length: 5-15 km
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

3. Chongming Island ()

Located at the mouth of the Yangtze River, Chongming Island is a peaceful retreat from the city. The island offers several hiking and biking trails that take you through rice fields, forests, and along the coast.

  • Getting There: Take ferry from Shanghai Wusongkou Ferry Terminal or drive via G40 Shanghai-Shaanxi Expressway
  • Trail Length: 5-20 km
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

4. Sheshan National Forest Park ()

About an hour west of Shanghai, Sheshan National Forest Park is a scenic oasis with several hiking trails that wind through forests and along lakes. The park is also home to the famous Sheshan Observatory.

  • Getting There: Take bus 165 from Shanghai South Railway Station or drive via G15 Shenyang-Shanghai Expressway
  • Trail Length: 5-10 km
  • Difficulty: Easy

5. Dianshan Lake ()

Located about two hours west of Shanghai, Dianshan Lake is a peaceful retreat surrounded by rolling hills and forests. The lake offers several hiking trails, including the popular 12km loop trail.

  • Getting There: Take bus 165 from Shanghai South Railway Station or drive via G15 Shenyang-Shanghai Expressway
  • Trail Length: 5-20 km
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Before you head out on your hike, be sure to:

  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothes
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks
  • Pack a map and compass or GPS device
  • Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out
  • Respect the natural environment and other hikers

Get ready to escape the hustle and bustle of Shanghai and connect with nature in these amazing hiking areas!