Is One Day Enough for Mount Siguniang? Where's the Best Place to Stay for a Day Trip?

Q: Is one day enough for Mount Siguniang? A: Definitely not! If you're not in great physical shape or prefer a more relaxed trip, just visiting Shuangqiao Valley is sufficient. But if you're confident in your stamina, plan for two days to explore Changping Valley as well. Q: Where’s the best place to stay? A: Most visitors only go to Shuangqiao Valley since it’s *much* easier than Changping Valley. However, I highly recommend staying at a scenic homestay at the foot of Changping Valley. Why? Because Shuangqiao Valley offers no view of Mount Siguniang itself. Staying near Changping Valley gives you two golden opportunities—sunrise and sunset—to photograph the "Golden Mountain" effect (see reference photos). The experience is incomparable. Many regret missing this chance by not considering it. And no, Maobiliang viewpoint is too far for decent phone photography. Q: Is Shuangqiao Valley for bus tours or hiking? A: Changping Valley is brutal—almost entirely on foot. For Shuangqiao Valley, take the shuttle to the end, then choose: ride back to the second stop or hike the 5.5km return. Though challenging, I recommend hiking for three reasons: 1) The air is freshest here, 2) The views are unmatched (later sections pale in comparison), and 3) You’ll pass key photo spots (Figs. 8-11). Skipping the hike means tedious backtracking. Afterward, try the Nianyuba rafting—skip other hikes. Total visit time: ~6-7 hours (enter by 10 AM, finish by 3-4 PM). Q: Are there food options? A: "Options" exist, but barely. Pack your own meals, especially if hiking—I had to beg snacks from kind strangers mid-trail (thank you, kind souls!). Pro tip: Skip the roadside boiled yak meat and sausages—they’re *meh*. Instead, stock up on local apples (I shipped home 5 boxes!) or other fruits. Q: Any viewpoints for Mount Siguniang’s full panorama? A: If you’re skipping Changping Valley’s homestays and only doing Shuangqiao Valley, Maobiliang viewpoint (on the Chengdu route) is your backup—though distant. Q: Can I fly a drone? A: Absolutely! This vast landscape begs for aerial shots—not flying one would be a travel sin.