Xuebaoding Trekking – Songpan
Songpan, Sichuan
Tour Information
(*select lunches may be provided by homestays. Subject to availability.)
Mount Xuebaoding is a highlight for many visitors to Songpan County, though most only see it from the viewing platform on the way to Huanglong National Park. With an altitude of 18,333ft or 5588m, it is the highest peak in the Minshan Range. It is the most Northeastern of the great peaks that rise out of the Himalayas and forms the Eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau. Xuebaoding is part of the Huanglong Nature Reserve and is home to diverse plant and wildlife species.
Itinerary
Suggested Itinerary for trekking from Songpan to Long Lake and Xuebaoding Base Camp
5 Day/4 Night treks begin at 600 USD per person and Seven Day/Six Night treks are available starting at 970 USD per person. All Xuebaoding treks have a 2 person minimum. These include guide services, equipment, select home stays, and 2 meals per day. Hot lunches are not included.
This route passes from Songpan Old Town through Niri Valley and into Shanglami Village before moving up the valley to Xuebaoding Basecamp. There are times allotted for exploring the waterfalls near Shanglami as well as exploring Xuebaoding’s basecamp region and nearby alpine lakes.
Day 1 – Spend the morning at the Adventure Access Outdoor Center preparing and packing. In the afternoon, hike from Songpan to Niri Valley and stay in one of the local Tibetan Homestays.
Day 2 – Hike over the high ridge between Niri Valley and Shanglami and descend through thick forests and streams. Stay in Shanglami Village.
Day 3* – Rest in the morning and spend the afternoon hiking to nearby waterfalls to further acclimatize.
Day 4 – Depart the village for Long Lake and spend the afternoon taking in the surroundings before descending to a nearby nomad camp for an evening of camping.
Day 5* – Hike to Mount Xuebaoding Base Camp. From the Nomad camp below Long Lake, hike out to the main valley above Shanglami and proceed up to the base camp of Mount Xuebaoding. Enjoy the surroundings for the afternoon and camp in tents for the evening.
Day 6 – After breakfast, explore the base camp area and then return hike to Shanglami. Rest for the evening at the Tibetan guesthouse.
Day 7 – Return hike to Niri Valley via an alternate route and then to Songpan.
*Shorter Itineraries are available by choosing a vehicle transfer back to Songpan from Shanglami Village or by visiting fewer locations. Inquire for details on all 3, 5, and 7 day itineraries.
Other Information
Xuebaoding Trek:
Trekking to Mount Xuebaoding passes through Niri Valley and Shanglami Village. Both areas are committed to sustainable tourism development and are partnering closely with Adventure Access to develop a sustainable trails and camping program. A combination of tent camping and Tibetan home stays makes this one of the most culturally immersive trekking experiences in Songpan. High mountain vistas, deep forested valleys, waterfalls, and rivers also make this a diverse trail experience.
The locals in this region are among the most friendly to host travelers and thru-hikers. Their hospitality is warm and so is their food!
The suggested itinerary on this page is only one option. For those short on time or looking for a lower price point, there are options for 3-5 day treks as well. Pack horses are available as are horses for riding. Please inquire for details and rates for horses.
