Laoxiong Mountain Forest Park

Laoxiong Mountain Forest Park

Laoxiong Mountain Forest Park

Laoxiong Mountain, also known as Xiong Mountain, is located in the southern part of Changzhi County, covering an area of approximately sixty to seventy li, with an elevation of 1,419.5 meters. It is hailed as the "King of the Mountains in Shangdang." The mountain features three peaks standing opposite one another, forming a majestic, layered ridge that resembles a giant dragon winding its way through the towns of Yincheng, Xihuo, and Xianan. Historical records suggest that its name comes from the meaning of “lofty peaks, grand and precipitous terrain.” Xiong Mountain is famed for its verdant pines and cypresses. In the height of summer, the mountains are covered in lush, dewy greenery, and thousands of butterflies flutter among the woods and grass. Sitting against a pine tree, listening to the rustling pine breeze and watching the butterflies dance creates a truly unique experience. Today, adorned by the efforts of local residents, Xiong Mountain has taken on an even more enchanting appearance and has become a forest park within the county. At its summit, pines and cypresses remain green all year round; at its mid-slopes, five kinds of fruit scent the air during golden autumn; at its foothills, green waves ripple in the peak of summer; and in the ravines, streams flow year-long. Since ancient times, locals have had the custom of carrying picnics and hiking up the mountain as a family to escape the summer heat, cool off, and ward off misfortune. Nowadays, mountain climbing has become an important part of people’s recreational and sports activities. Especially during the Dragon Boat Festival in May, people from surrounding villages, young and old alike, flock to the mountain. The pine forests on the mountaintop teem with visitors, voices singing and laughter ringing out, blending into a joyful sea of celebration.