Self-driving in Qinling to Enjoy the Ultimate Autumn Scenery

Xi'an's top self-driving autumn trip! Two secret routes in Huanghualing, Qinling—every snapshot is an autumn masterpiece Want to avoid the crowds and fully immerse yourself in the brilliant late autumn of Qinling? This self-driving guide around Xi'an is a must-have! Head straight to Huanghualing, where colorful forests, winding roads, and ancient village charm will fill your autumn social feed. 1. Classic Loop: Xi'an → Fengyukou → Huanghualing → Zhongnanshan Village (Enjoy autumn all the way without detours) 1. Fengyukou: Opening the autumn chapter Starting from downtown Xi'an, enter Qinling through Fengyukou. As soon as you enter the mountains, you’ll be greeted by a full screen of autumn—trees quietly don golden and crimson “attire,” and the mountain breeze carries the fresh scent of grass and wood, instantly escaping the city’s hustle and bustle. 2. Watershed + Guanghuo Street: Scenic views and tasty treats Drive along National Highway G210 to the Watershed first—this is the iconic dividing point between the north and south of Qinling. Stop the car to see clouds and mist winding through the colorful forest sea; the layered autumn scenery is incredibly healing. Continue to Guanghuo Street, where you must try local specialties: the chewy Zuoshui potato glutinous rice cake and the savory taro powder stir-fried with cured meat. Eat well to have energy for more exploring. 3. Huanghualing: Driving through a painting Turn onto Provincial Road S102 from Guanghuo Street and officially enter the Huanghualing section. This mountain road twists and turns, with trees on both sides like a spilled palette—reds, yellows, and greens weave into a vibrant painting. Driving through it feels like stepping into an autumn fairy tale. 4. Yangpo Courtyard: Slow mountain time Cross Huanghualing to reach Yangpo Courtyard homestay in Zhujiawan. There are six independent courtyards, each with a different style, all tightly embraced by green mountains. When tired, stop to gather around the stove in the courtyard, brew tea, gaze at the mountain views, and enjoy a rare slow pace. 5. Zhongnanshan Village: A surprising finale The trip ends at Zhongnanshan Village, with old houses topped with bluestone slabs and ancient streets paved with bluestone, full of the charm of time. Stroll along the street tasting local snacks, and challenge thrilling activities like zip-lining and via ferrata. The collision of nature and culture will perfectly conclude your journey. 2. Reverse Route: Niubeiliang Forest Park → Zhongnanshan Village → Yangpo Courtyard → Huanghualing (Deep autumn pursuit) If you want to first immerse yourself in the autumn forest atmosphere, start at Niubeiliang Forest Park—its autumn forest sea feels even more secluded. Hiking here lets you get close to golden fallen leaves and pine-needle-laden branches. Then follow the order “Zhongnanshan Village → Yangpo Courtyard → Huanghualing” for your tour. End the trip with a “painting-like drive” on Huanghualing’s mountain road, delivering an equally full experience. 3. Key Notes - Road condition alert: Qinling’s weather is changeable in autumn and winter. If Fengyukou is closed, don’t panic! You can switch to the backup route “Hucai Road → Guanghuo Street → Huanghualing.” - Driving safety: Some sections have many curves and steep slopes. Drive slowly and carefully when meeting other vehicles, especially watch out for slippery roads on rainy days.