ShiLin backcountry adventures
May 9, 2008 – 6:52 amIf You have strong feet and the main touristic areas of Shilin don’t satisfy You, I recommend You to take a look at the remote backcountry which has it’s own beauty. But take care, You are alone out there. This is part 3 and the final part of my Shilin series.
- Part 1: Shilin stoneforrest
- Part 2: Flowers in Shilin
- Part 3: Shilin backcountry adventures (You are here)
Do You remember the stairs picture I posted in the first part of the Shilin episodes? Yes, these stairs lead You the mysterious backcountry of Shilin. Follow the stairs and around the corner You will already see the first warning sign.

A sign warning You about what is ahead of You. Don’t worry, some passages are really small, but even if You are as tall as me, it’s doable. I did it.
Once You go up the mysterious stairs and follow the path for a while You will find You way to the top of a small peak. Beware, just before the top of the hill, the path divides in two different paths. One goes to the top, one goes further to the backcountry. From there You have a great 360° view over the scenery. You can look back and see the main touristic area, as well as look in the other direction and see what You can explore in case You have strong feet.

A nice view of the area where the grass is greenest.
Once You’re done looking around, go down and this time take the path to the real remoteness. There You can find a lot of unexplored area. There are birds singing in the trees and You hardly encounter any other people there. Some really beautiful stones can be found there, as well as a ancient painting on stones. Actually we didn’t make it until the painting, however if You have to much energy feel free to walk the extra mile.

Oh my, where are we now? If You go on walking at this point, small green witches might come and curse You. Honestly, we had no idea what this sign about the forbidden area of the stone forest was. Obviously it was signed by the Ministry of Land and Resources, PRC. Does this Ministry have to do something with the Chinese moon resources?

A really quiet area invites You to relax. Here the birds are signing in the trees and small mosquitoes are flying around. Not to much of them, only a few. We even saw some colorful butterflies there.

If You want to see this scenery, You should walk a little. But patience rewards You with great views and maybe even with some adventures. Plan a whole day in the stoneforest. Although tour guides are abundant, I think exploring on Your own might be the better solution. Shilin is definitely worth a trip and a great place.
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