3-Day Animadong and Cuoni Lakes Traverse
Overview
Quick Answer
3 days from Chuanzhusi back to Chuanzhusi. Dalian Lake first-night camp.
Follow a high-level lake route from the Dawan approach near Chuanzhusi to Dalian Lake, Cuoni and the Taojin valley exit. Two camp nights link several passes and remote mountain basins. The walk is compact in calendar days but sustained in altitude and effort, especially on the middle stage. verotrip confirms the permitted line and camp arrangements with the local guide before treating the traverse as an available departure.
Why Choose This Journey
- Dalian Lake first-night camp
- High passes linking the Cuoni basin
- Taojin valley exit to Chuanzhusi
Your Route at a Glance
Itinerary at a Glance
| Day | Route | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chuanzhusi to Dawan and Dalian Lake | Dalian Lake camp |
| 2 | High Passes to Cuoni Lake | Cuoni Lake camp |
| 3 | Taojin Pass and Valley Exit | Not included; Chuanzhusi night recommended |
Good to Know Before You Go
Activity level: Very challenging
The route passes above the wider Huanglong mountain area; it does not include standard Huanglong scenic-area sightseeing. The first day gains significant height and the second can take around nine hours. Add acclimatization time before joining.
Dates and Mountain Conditions
Choose dates after checking current trail access, snow, rainfall and the availability of the required mountain support. Clear views and summit or pass access cannot be promised. verotrip will confirm the operating plan before booking.
Plan Your Journey
Share your dates, group size, previous mountain experience and accommodation preference through Plan My Trip. verotrip will return with a route-specific plan and quotation, including any extra acclimatization nights.
Daily Itinerary
Meet in Chuanzhusi and transfer toward Dawan Village. Begin the climb from the lower valley toward Dalian Lake, moving steadily as the route gains substantial height. The guide chooses the pace and resting points to keep the party together. Reach the designated camp near the lake and prepare for the more sustained pass stage the next day.
Overnight: Dalian Lake camp
Today’s pace: Approximately 7 km; around 5 hours; significant ascent
Leave camp for the first pass, then continue across the upper mountain terrain toward the Huanglong pass area. The day involves repeated ascent and descent rather than a single short crossing. Follow the guide through loose or stony sections and descend to the elongated Cuoni lake basin for camp. The route may change if snow or weather makes the crossings unsuitable.
Overnight: Cuoni Lake camp
Today’s pace: Approximately 10 km; around 9 hours; repeated high passes
Cross the final pass above camp and descend into the Taojin valley. The route gradually loses height toward the road meeting point, where the vehicle returns to Chuanzhusi. Take care on the long descent and allow time for the whole party to reach the pickup. A station transfer can be added with a generous margin, or stay locally for a more relaxed finish.
Overnight: Not included; Chuanzhusi night recommended
Today’s pace: Approximately 10 km; around 6 hours
