A View of Lake Erhai

---

Today one Irishwoman, 2 Finns, and I headed out to the hike above town. We took cable cars up the mountain, hiked 12 km with some diversions, and then took the ski lift back down to town. It was nice and shaded and cool, and unlike Tiger Leaping Gorge, it was paved (for the most part) making things easier. Made for more of a leisurely stoll than a hike. Which would explain our desire to leave the path and climb.

We deviated from the path immediatly upon reaching the top of the mount. We trekked over to the first of many waterfalls. This one just happened to be one of the bigger ones we would see. The steps to it were steep and crazy but the view was amazing! After watching a woman in flip-flop high heels and her boyfriend with monkey-like agility run around, take photos, and amazingly not injure themselves, we breathed a sigh of relief as her yelps disappeared into the cool air. We finally gave up our scenic spot and continued along the path.

A while later we deviated one more time, this time to a waterfall with poools between and on the rocks. The rocks had been worn so smooth by the water that they looked soft. The water was so clear we just wanted to stay there. We did stop and take photos and have a snack and cool our feet in the water.

Along the path there were other small waterfalls, dropping rocks, pine trees, and amazing views of Lake Erhai. The lake is huge (I couldn't fit it all in my camera's viewfinder) and tranquil. Our friend told us down at the lake it was hot and sunny, but on our little path it was cool and shaded.

After a few hours we were done with our lovely little hike in the tranquility above town. It was time to head down. Me, on a ski lift for the first time, not tranquil. I got on alright, but the getting off proved to be a bit challenging. I think the Chinese guys at the bottom thought I was crazy.

---

Photos

3 Pagodas
One of the main sights to see in Dali, but way overpriced. This was how I chose to see them.

Comments

[Ron]

NICE
Nice story - great, tranquil pictures. I would like to see this place!