AS summer temperatures soar, the search for a cool escape becomes all the more appealing. Nestled in Pingshan District, Maluan Mountain Country Park offers a lush, shaded retreat home to Shenzhen’s largest natural waterfall cluster — the Biling waterfalls. A poetic journey through the falls The Biling waterfall cluster is a unique geographical wonder, featuring the densest and most diverse collection of waterfalls in the city. Along a 3-kilometer trail, five main waterfalls are linked by over 20 pools and streams. Each waterfall is poetically named after lines from Li Bai’s famous poem, “Viewing the Waterfall at Mount Lu”: Galaxy, Thousand Feet, Purple Smoke, Flying Stream, and Nine Heavens. The journey begins at the park’s northwest gate. As you walk along the forested trails, you’ll head toward the deepest waterfall, Nine Heavens. On the way, you pass by Flying Stream, a seasonal waterfall that is most impressive after rainfall — though on drier days, you might only hear its sound. The five falls Galaxy Waterfall (银河瀑) A 10-15 minute walk from the northwest gate brings you to the first cascade, Galaxy Waterfall. This is a triple-layered waterfall where water flows over a wide, open rock face into a plunge pool. After heavy rain, it lives up to its grand, celestial name. Thousand Feet Waterfall (千尺瀑) Continuing along the boardwalk, you’ll soon encounter Thousand Feet Waterfall. You can view it from a distance or climb higher steps for a closer look, where the only sound is the powerful rush of water — a truly refreshing experience. Purple Smoke Waterfall (紫烟瀑) This waterfall features seven connected plunge pools, giving it the nickname “Seven Pearls.” Hanging in the distance, it marks the halfway point of the trail — a perfect spot to rest at a nearby pavilion before continuing deeper into the forest. Flying Stream Waterfall (飞流瀑) Known as a seasonal fall, Flying Stream is most visible after periods of substantial rainfall. Nine Heavens Waterfall (九天瀑) The final and perhaps most breathtaking waterfall is Nine Heavens. With its significant drop and elegant form, it appears to pour down from the sky into a deep, serene pool. Tucked away in the mountains, it feels like a hidden gem reserved for those who venture the farthest. A cool detour: The dawn redwood forest Beyond the waterfalls, the northwest gate route offers another hidden treasure: a dawn redwood forest at the foot of the mountain. Along a path next to the stream, tall and straight trees line up neatly on either side, with the water flowing through at varying depths. The serene forest, filled with the sounds of happy visitors, is a must-see. Tips ● For the best waterfall views: Visit 2-3 days after rainfall, but avoid visiting on rainy or typhoon days due to slippery and dangerous conditions. ● Wear appropriate footwear: Some sections are steep and can be slippery. Wear comfortable sports shoes and consider bringing a trekking pole. ● Protect yourself: Bring sunscreen and insect repellent. ● Bring essentials: There are no supply points along the trail. Bring sufficient water and snacks. Restrooms and water vendors are only at the park entrance. ● For stream activities: If you plan to play in the water, bring a change of clothes and sandals. Getting there Metro: Line 3 to Yonghu Station (永湖站), Exit A2; then transfer to Bus 366 to Maluan Mountain Country Park Driving: Navigate to “Maluan Mountain Country Park (northwest gate)” and note that parking reservations are required. (Tang Li) | 