A mere 220 kilometer (140 mile) ride from Chengdu ascends an astounding 2,200 meters (7,200 feet) before reaching the tiny Tibetan town of Rilong nestled in a valley far below Four Maidens Mountain.  Dramatic secluded scenery along the road includes the giant panda base at Wolong and Balang Mountain at 4,523 meters (14,839 ft).  The region actually boats over 7 peaks above 5,000 meters, and the mountain continues to rise as glaciers beneath push up against each other.  The highest peak, the "youngest girl," towers at 6,250 meters (20,500 ft).  Its peak has never been reached, despite multiple efforts by both domestic and international mountaineers.  The three other maidens' peaks, at 5664, 5455, and 5355 meters, can all be reached.  The massive mountain's large surrounding scenic area has its advantages in every season.  In July and August the high elevation and an ample supply of high rain and sun cause the alpine meadows below the peaks to explode with flowers, wild mushrooms, and verdant scenery.  During the long winter ice climbing and snowy alpine scenery highlight the area.  Clearer skies usually prevail in May, September, and October, but bring plenty of warm clothing for cold nights!  

Thanks to our friends and partners at the Sichuan Mountaineering Association a wide range of hiking, trekking, camping, and ice climbing opportunities are available.  Three main valleys: the Twin Bridges, Great Lakes, and the Long Terrace, offer varying alpine and high elevation scenery while trekking below the peaks. Two of the valleys are dotted with Tibetan villages which often serve as our hosts. The Great Lakes valley has no villages and is less commonly visited by tourists.