2-Day Tiger Leaping Gorge High Trail Hike from Lijiang

The High Trail above Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the best two-day hikes I've done anywhere. The 28 Bends section is a proper lung-burner but the views down into the gorge are absurd. Our guesthouse halfway was simple but the terrace looking at the snow peaks was unreal. English-speaking guide set a great pace from Qiaotou.

Did this straight after Lijiang and it was the highlight of our Yunnan trip. Two days walking the high path with an overnight stop, exactly the right length. Guide pointed out the trail markers and carried first aid, and was honest that the 28 Bends are tough. Tina's at the end felt well earned.

Real trekking, not a tourist stroll. Qiaotou to Tina's via the High Trail with a night in a guesthouse halfway up. The gorge is enormous and you feel tiny next to it. Private guide meant we could rest when we needed and still finished comfortably. Bring decent boots.

Stunning two-day hike from Lijiang. The 28 Bends were harder than expected but worth it for the panoramas. Guesthouse food was tasty and the guide spoke clear English. Only reason for four stars is the weather closed in on day two, no one's fault.

If you can handle a steep day one this is unmissable. The view of the gorge with the river roaring below is something photos don't capture. Loved the slower pace of having a private guide and the overnight guesthouse experience deep in the mountains.