Epic Hikes of the World ( PDFDrive )

like an old man in a cloak, raising his hand didactically. He was, we’re told, a wise
teacher who steered a misguided merchant towards the right path in life before
turning himself into a stone memorial. Inspired, we walk on.
The steps are starting to hurt now, but porters in baggy blue worker’s overalls
and flimsy green plimsoles remind us how lucky we are as they stride past carrying
heavy supplies – food boxes, drink bottles – on either end of bamboo shoulder
poles. Incredibly, two more approach us carrying a bamboo sedan chair on top of
which sits a smiling and rather overweight Chinese tourist. ‘Lai, lai, lai!’ they shout
(coming through!), as they squeeze past without breaking stride. Sweat drips from
their hair. Their clothes are sodden. Suddenly our daypacks feel as light as air.
© Thomas Edinger | 500px
“The granite peaks and twisted pines have inspired generations of poets
and painters”
Three hours later we reach White Goose Ridge and the main summit area. After
bagging two beds in a guesthouse dorm, we spend the rest of the day grazing on
unusual Chinese snacks – shrink-wrapped chicken’s feet, anyone? – and