Step into the real-life Wizard of Oz! Complete Hiking Guide to Xuedouling

Step into the real-life Wizard of Oz! Complete Hiking Guide to Xuedouling Known as the "Little Jiuzhaigou of Shaoxing," Xuedouling is located in Jidong Town, Shaoxing. It is an excellent hiking destination with moderate difficulty, perfect for beginners! Here is a super detailed guide for everyone—let’s set off to embrace nature together 🌳 🚗 Transportation Drive and navigate to "Shaoxing Jidong Xuedouling." It is recommended to navigate to Zhibukeng Village, where there is a parking lot with a fee of about 10 yuan. If you choose public transportation, first get to Keqiao District in Shaoxing, then transfer to the urban-rural bus to Jidong Town. After arriving in Jidong Town, take a taxi to the scenic area. However, this option is more troublesome and time-consuming, so driving is more convenient. 👣 Hiking Routes 1. Zhibukeng Village - Dawn Redwood Forest - Zhibukeng Village (round trip, suitable for beginners and families): The whole route is about 4 kilometers and takes 2-3 hours round trip. Starting from Zhibukeng Village, follow the signboards to easily find the ancient trail entrance. Walk along the stone slab road with streams alongside, where you can see clear flowing water and occasionally spot small fish and shrimp. After reaching the Xuedouling Reservoir and enjoying the beautiful scenery, return the same way. At the small waterfall, turn right and take the wooden plank road down the mountain. 2. Zhibukeng Village - Dawn Redwood Forest - An Village - Zhibukeng Village (loop, slightly more difficult): The entire route is about 6 kilometers and takes around 3.5 hours. The first half is the same as the round trip route. After passing the reservoir, turn right to go around the road. At the three-way junction near the pavilion on the opposite side, keep left to follow the Xuedouling loop trail. The second half passes through a Torreya forest and dirt roads. The dirt roads are mossy and slippery, not very suitable for children or those with less stamina. However, this section offers views of the rustic Torreya forest, and if lucky, you can pick up fallen Torreya nuts, making for a rich experience! 🍁 Best Time to Visit Late autumn from mid to late November to early to mid-December is the most beautiful time at Xuedouling. The leaves of the dawn redwood forest turn red, contrasting with the clear lake water, creating a scene like a painting—an absolute paradise for photography enthusiasts. 🎈 Highlights Along the Way 1. Dawn Redwood Forest: The most popular photo spot at Xuedouling. Every autumn, large areas of dawn redwoods change from green to red, as if nature has spilled its palette. The red trees reflected in the water create a dreamlike scene. 2. Waterfalls: Several small waterfalls are encountered during the hike. In summer, with abundant rain, the waterfalls are majestic. In autumn, the water flow is smaller but still charming. Standing beside the waterfalls, you can feel the mist on your face—very refreshing. 3. Ancient Bridges and Old Trees: The stone slab ancient trail features many rustic stone bridges that have withstood the test of time, full of historical charm. Towering ancient trees line the path, as if telling old stories. 4. Torreya Forest: In the second half of the loop, you can see the unique thousand-year-old Torreya trees of Mount Kuaiji. This is an ancient and rare tree species, where you can feel the weight of time. 🍔 Food and Supplies 1. Both Zhibukeng Village and An Village have supply points where local villagers sell snacks like stinky tofu, radish cakes, lean meatballs, drinks, and more. There is also a supply station near the dawn redwood forest, so no need to worry about getting hungry. 2. If you want to taste local farmhouse dishes, you can dine at restaurants in Jidong Town. Recommended dishes include Shaoxing specialties like braised pork with preserved vegetables and drunken shrimp. 🎒 Essentials 1. Backpack: To carry water, snacks, power banks, and other items, freeing your hands for an easy hike. 2. Shoes: Be sure to wear comfortable, non-slip hiking or sports shoes, as some sections have moss and can be slippery. 3. Miscellaneous: Hiking poles can help save energy; power banks ensure your phone stays charged; hats and sunglasses provide sun protection; rain gear is recommended just in case. Also, bring some snacks like chocolate and beef jerky to replenish energy anytime. 💡 Hiking Tips 1. Weekends tend to be crowded. To enjoy a quiet hiking experience, try to go on weekdays. 2. Protect the environment during the hike—do not litter and practice Leave No Trace principles. 3. Many people take photos in the dawn redwood forest. To get beautiful shots, start early. 4. The dirt roads in the second half of the loop are slippery. Be careful when descending and use hiking poles if necessary.