As you journey through the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass—one of the most dramatic mountain passes in Vietnam—you might catch sight of a narrow, cliff-hugging road high above the valley. This is the White Cliffs Trail, a stunning 5-kilometer hike that winds along the edge of the Co Tien Mountain, offering panoramic views of the Nho Que River, Tu San Canyon, and the cloud-covered limestone peaks of Ha Giang.
The Trail in the Clouds
The White Cliffs Trail (also called the White Rock Trail) connects Ma Pi Leng Hamlet in Pa Vi Commune to Xeo Sa Lung Village in Pai Lung Commune. Once used by locals for trade and travel before the construction of National Highway 4C, this path today offers hikers a chance to walk through history—literally along the “road to the foot of clouds.”
Despite its dramatic appearance, the trail is of moderate difficulty, making it accessible even for novice trekkers who seek adventure without extreme challenge.
Starting the Journey
The trek begins at the Happiness Road Museum, a meaningful stop that commemorates the labor of ethnic communities who built the original mountain roads decades ago. From here, adventurers can either hike or ride a motorbike about 3 km to the trailhead. The narrow path, carved into the limestone cliffs, quickly rises above the valleys below—revealing breathtaking views at every turn.
Tip: Sip a cup of morning tea before you begin—many hikers do so while watching clouds drift across the peaks, a moment of peace before the journey.
Views that Take Your Breath Away
From the edge of the trail, you’ll look down at the turquoise ribbon of the Nho Que River, winding through jagged mountains and ancient gorges. This perspective—roughly 1,700 meters above sea level—is even more impressive than the famous viewpoints along Highway 4C at 1,500 meters.
One particularly scenic spot is a hollow rock outcrop that opens into a small natural “campground,” large enough to fit five or six single tents. Nearby, a group of flat stones has been arranged into a table—a perfect place to rest, enjoy lunch, or reflect while gazing into the vast Tu San Canyon below.
The Path to the Summit
The trail gradually leads downhill before rising again toward the summit of Co Tien Mountain, one of the highest accessible points in the area. From here, an observatory point allows you to take in a full 360-degree panorama of the landscape:
- Ma Pi Leng Pass weaving like a ribbon along the cliffside
- Tu San Canyon, carved over millennia
- The Nho Que River, gleaming like green silk below
And if you’re lucky, you might catch the clouds rolling over the cliffs, creating that surreal feeling of walking above the sky.
Why It’s Worth It
The White Cliffs Trail is more than just a hike—it’s a spiritual encounter with the land. Every turn reveals a new view, a new emotion: awe, serenity, even humility before nature’s raw power.
Standing on the edge of the cliff, gazing down at the landscape carved by time and rivers, you’ll understand why locals call this trail “the path to the clouds.” It’s a place that etches itself into your memory—and your heart.
So if you’re heading to Ha Giang, don’t miss your chance to walk the White Cliffs Trail. It’s a hidden gem that combines natural grandeur, cultural history, and quiet adventure—all in one unforgettable experience.
