Hiking Wutong Mountain years ago on a chilly January day, with clouds hanging low and a gloomy vibe in the air, was an adventure I’ll never forget. I brought along my tiny Pomeranian, Foxy, who was ready to tackle the roughly 1,000-meter elevation with me. The whole day was a true test of endurance, as we climbed up and down the mountain together. While the trail offered breathtaking vistas, it was also a serious workout, and I felt every step as we made our way through the misty landscape.

As we started our ascent, I was delighted to spot some passive warthogs scavenging for food from tourists. We pressed on to the observation deck and then onto Wutong Da, the highest peak in Shenzhen. Although the peak itself was bustling and not the best spot for photos, the quieter route we took down led us deeper into the forest, where we encountered fascinating Woolly Aphids. The paths were lined with steps—lots of them—which became monotonous but motivating, thanks to well-placed signposts showing how much further we had to go. The views from both mountains were absolutely majestic, showcasing Shenzhen in all its glory. Overall, it was a memorable hike, though tackling both mountains in one day was quite the ambitious feat!