Part of the attractions you get while hiking Huashan Mountain is undoubtedly the dangerous plank walk which draws in all sorts of daredevil visitors. It has been ‘conquered’ hundreds times by Chinese visitors, (actually all families) and overseas travellers, old and young trying to face the fear of heights. The organisation is a bit chaotic and slow, but the reward is unbeatable and the experience unforgettable.
As I stepped onto the infamous plank walk of Huashan Mountain, my heart skipped a beat. The sheer drop below, coupled with the narrow, precarious planks, was enough to test even the bravest of souls. But I was determined to push through my fear and take in the breathtaking views that awaited.
Located in Shaanxi Province, China, Huashan Mountain is one of the Five Sacred Taoist Mountains, steeped in history and mythology. The plank walk, also known as the “Death Trail,” is a thrilling section of the mountain’s scenic route that has been attracting daredevils and adventure-seekers for centuries.
The plank walk itself is a series of narrow wooden boards bolted into the side of a cliff, often with nothing but a chain or metal bar between you and a precipitous drop. It’s hard to believe that this trail was once a vital route for Buddhist monks and traders, who braved the treacherous path to reach the mountain’s temples and monasteries.
As I navigated the planks, I couldn’t help but think about the strange and fascinating history of Huashan Mountain. Legend has it that the mountain was home to the famous Taoist immortal, Chen Tuan, who supposedly cultivated immortality here. The mountain’s unique rock formations and stunning scenery have also inspired countless Chinese poets and artists throughout history.
But I wasn’t just there to take in the views – I was on a mission to capture the daredevil moments on camera. With my phone in hand, I carefully made my way along the planks, trying to frame the perfect shot while fighting off my own fear. It wasn’t easy, let me tell you! The wind was strong, and the planks were swaying ominously, but I managed to get some amazing shots.
As I walked, I noticed other visitors struggling with their own height phobia. Some were frozen in fear, unable to move forward or backward, while others were taking tentative steps, their eyes fixed on the path ahead. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of camaraderie with these fellow adventurers, and I found myself offering words of encouragement and support.
“You’re doing great!” I’d say, or “Take your time, you’ve got this!” It was amazing to see how a little bit of support and motivation could help people push through their fears and reach the other side.
One woman, in particular, stood out. She was visibly shaking as she stepped onto the planks, but with some gentle coaxing from her friends and me, she began to make progress. By the time she reached the end of the plank walk, she was beaming with pride, and I couldn’t help but cheer her on.
Reaching the end of the plank walk myself, I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The views were truly unforgettable, and the experience left me grinning from ear to ear. If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure that pushes you out of your comfort zone, the plank walk of Huashan Mountain is a must-try.
Tips for attempting the plank walk:
- Arrive early to beat the crowds
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip
- Take your time and focus on your footsteps
- Don’t look down (if you can help it!)
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views (but be careful not to drop it!)
- Be kind to fellow adventurers – you never know who might need a little encouragement
Would you dare to take on the plank walk of Huashan Mountain? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Frog on the border 