Popular ‘Hike’ in China Is Actually Just an Escalator Ride up a Mountain

50 Campfires

Hate hiking but still want some good views? Fear not. You can always travel to China and take an escalator up to the top of Tianyu Mountain. Have you heard of this escalator “hike”? It’s a divisive topic in the outdoors community, with some saying it’s inclusive and other saying it’s an eyesore in the natural landscape.

The 1,100-foot escalator on Tianyu Mountain opened up last year, and it is very popular. We’re not surprised by its popularity. After all, it reduces a trek up a 980-foot mountain into a comfortable escalator ride that takes only about 10 minutes. There are even misters to cool visitors down as they ride. At the end of the escalator, there’s just a short walk to the summit.

The escalator ride reportedly costs 30 Chinese yuen (about $4.24). Videos suggest this fee is very affordable, considering the escalator appears to be packed. For those with physical limitations, elderly people, and young people (and parents with young kids), the escalators provide an opportunity to see the views from the top of the mountain. For those who prefer to take the long way, which you still can, the escalator is an eye sore.

Check out this controversial escalator “hike” here:

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