Location and surroundings
Dahong Shan is situated in China, within the Hubei region and Sui County district. It belongs to the East Asia > Central China Mountains > Qin Mountains > Jiuwan Mountains mountain range. Among the 4 named peaks in the Jiuwan Mountains, it ranks as the highest by elevation at 1,006 metres. The surrounding landscape features rugged terrain and rolling hills typical of the Central China Mountains, characterized by forested slopes and varied elevations.
Neighbouring peaks
The surrounding area features several peaks and passes at various distances and directions from Dahong Shan:
- Qingzhaizi (peak), 655 m, 8.7 km S
- Xujiazhai (peak), 869 m, 19.3 km SE
- Yuntaiguan (peak), 565 m, 40.2 km S
- Dalinguan (peak), 406 m, 64.4 km SW
- Zhonghua Shan (peak), 664 m, 95.8 km E
- Bian Shan (peak), 425 m, 95.9 km NW
- Tangzi Shan (peak), 383 m, 97.5 km N
- Pingjing Guan (mountain pass), 274 m, 102.4 km NE
Standing at 1,006 metres, Dahong Shan surpasses all these neighbouring elevations, making it the highest point in its immediate range.
The view from the summit
From the summit of Dahong Shan, hikers can observe the surrounding landscape of the Jiuwan Mountains and the broader Qin Mountains system. On clear days, the rolling topography of the Hubei countryside and nearby elevations such as Xujiazhai and Qingzhaizi are visible across the forested terrain.
The range
Dahong Shan belongs to the East Asia > Central China Mountains > Qin Mountains > Jiuwan Mountains range. The Jiuwan Mountains contain 4 named peaks, and Dahong Shan is the highest point of the range. The range itself forms part of the extensive mountain systems spanning China in the Asia continent.
Access and starting points
Access to Dahong Shan is facilitated by local infrastructure in Sui County and the Hubei region. OpenStreetMap data indicates that there is 1 car park within 2 km of the summit, with the nearest located 1.1 km northeast of the top at an elevation of about 980 metres. From this car park, visitors can access the footpaths leading toward the summit.
Climate and weather
Climate figures for Dahong Shan are estimates derived from NASA POWER climate data covering 2001 to 2004, with temperatures adjusted to the summit elevation. At the summit, the mean temperature reaches its warmest in July at about 22 °C and its coldest in January at about 0 °C. The mean temperature remains above freezing at the summit during all twelve months of the year: February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, and December. Precipitation in the surrounding area totals about 1,050 mm annually, with July being the wettest month at about 200 mm and December the driest at about 20 mm. Typical mountain weather hazards in this region include sudden rain showers and temperature drops at higher elevations.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Dahong Shan is during the months when conditions are milder and drier. The summit experiences mean temperatures above freezing throughout the year, including February through December. However, drier months such as December offer clearer paths, whereas summer months like July bring higher precipitation, with about 200 mm of rain, requiring visitors to prepare for wet conditions.
Nature and wildlife
The environment around Dahong Shan features the characteristic flora and fauna of the Central China Mountains. Slopes are typically covered with dense mixed forests and regional vegetation that support local wildlife species adapted to the temperate climate of the Hubei area. The natural habitat remains largely undisturbed, offering rich biodiversity typical of the Qin Mountains ecosystem.
Guides and organised ascents
For visitors seeking organised support, mountaineering and alpine activities in the country are overseen by the Chinese Mountaineering Association. Established guiding companies operating in the country include Tibet Vista based in Lhasa. Visitors should note that foreign travellers visiting Tibet require a Tibet Travel Permit issued alongside a guided tour from a Tibet-based agency, while border areas such as Everest North and Kailash require additional permits. For climbing or hiking at Dahong Shan, local tourist offices or national alpine federations serve as primary resources for information.
Safety and preparation
Ascending Dahong Shan requires standard hillwalking preparation, proper footwear, and adequate water and clothing to cope with changing weather conditions in the Hubei mountains. In the event of an emergency, the national emergency numbers in China are 120 for an ambulance, 110 for the police, and 119 for the fire department.
Interesting facts
Dahong Shan holds the distinction of being the highest of 4 named peaks in the Jiuwan Mountains. Rising to 1,006 metres, it serves as the high point of its immediate range within the Central China Mountains and represents a prominent topographical feature in Sui County.
FAQ
How high is Dahong Shan? Dahong Shan reaches an elevation of 1,006 metres.
Where is Dahong Shan located? It is located in China, within the Hubei region and Sui County district, part of the Jiuwan Mountains.
Which mountain range does Dahong Shan belong to? It belongs to the East Asia > Central China Mountains > Qin Mountains > Jiuwan Mountains range hierarchy.
What are the nearest peaks to Dahong Shan? The nearest peaks include Qingzhaizi at 8.7 km south and Xujiazhai at 19.3 km southeast.
Is there water on the way to Dahong Shan? OpenStreetMap does not list specific springs or streams along the route, so hikers should carry 1.5 to 3 litres of water depending on the weather and length of the hike.
Are there huts on Dahong Shan? OpenStreetMap shows no hut or shelter within 2 km of the top, so hikers usually plan the ascent as a day trip or carry their own tent.
How long does it take to walk up Dahong Shan? From the car park 1.1 km northeast of the top, starting at about 980 m, the rough walking time is an estimate based on about 1.4 km on foot and 30 m up, taking roughly 15 to 25 minutes, though the real path may be longer.
Is there mobile phone coverage on Dahong Shan? Coverage in the hills is patchy and depends on the operator, so offline maps should be downloaded before setting out, keeping in mind that emergency calls can be made over any available network.