Discover “Phoenix” Hill in the yellow grass season

Hidden like a precious gem, Phoenix Peak in Uong Bi, Quang Ninh province, is a wild and untouched paradise—an idyllic escape for nature lovers and dreamers alike. Far from the noise and bustle of city life, this serene mountaintop offers a sanctuary where you can breathe in the stillness of the earth and sky. Especially during the burnt grass season, the entire mountain transforms into a fiery sea of red and gold—a breathtaking sight that mirrors the wings of a blazing phoenix soaring across the horizon. It’s a landscape so cinematic, it feels like stepping into a scene from a romantic drama.

1.Where is Phoenix Peak?

Phoenix Peak—also known as Ba Tang Mountain—is located in 12 Khe Village, Bac Son Ward, Uong Bi City, Quang Ninh Province. It lies about 40 kilometers from Ha Long City and 135 kilometers from downtown Hanoi.

Rising nearly 500 meters above sea level, Phoenix Peak is surrounded by vast pine forests and expansive grasslands that stretch endlessly into the horizon, creating a dreamy, unspoiled landscape perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

2. When is the best time to visit Phoenix Peak?

From October to January is the ideal time to explore Phoenix Peak, as this marks the enchanting burnt grass season. During this period, the rolling hills are dressed in golden-brown hues, creating the perfect setting for dreamy, romantic photos—like scenes straight out of a Korean drama. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the magical sight of clouds drifting gently over the mountaintop each morning, turning the landscape into a surreal, fairytale-like wonder.

From March to September marks the green grass season, when Phoenix Peak comes alive in the freshness of spring and summer. During these months, the mountain is cloaked in a lush, vibrant green—a living landscape full of energy and renewal. It’s the perfect time for nature lovers to breathe in the crisp mountain air, wander among the hills, and soak up the beauty of the great outdoors at its most vibrant.

Photos: Collected

3.How to get to Phoenix peak?

By Motorbike:
If you’re starting from Hanoi, you can head toward Long Bien Bridge, or take alternative routes via Vinh Tuy Bridge or Chuong Duong Bridge to cross the Red River. From there, follow National Highway 5 (QL5) toward Hai Duong Province. Once you reach Hai Duong, follow the signs to Sao Do Town, then continue on National Highway 18 (QL18) toward Dong Trieu Town. After arriving in Dong Trieu, take Provincial Road 326 to Uong Bi City. From Uong Bi, travel approximately 8 kilometers toward Bac Son Ward, and you’ll arrive at the base of Phoenix Peak.

It’s best to start your trip early to avoid the midday sun. Just set your GPS to Phoenix Peak, and you’ll be good to go! From the foot of the mountain to the peak, the road can get steep, dusty, and challenging—especially for inexperienced riders. If you’re not confident driving up, there’s the option to park your bike or car at the base and hire a shuttle truck to take you to the top. The round trip shuttle fee is about 150,000 VND per person. The timing is flexible—you can return whenever you’d like, but it’s a good idea to call your driver about 20 minutes in advance.

By Car:
For those driving, it’s recommended to use or rent a pickup truck or SUV with high clearance, preferably a 4WD vehicle with a strong engine and front-wheel torque for a smoother and fuel-efficient ride. Models like the Ford Ranger 2019, Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-8, or Toyota Land Cruiser are excellent options for the mountain terrain.

For travelers from Central or Southern Vietnam, the most convenient way is to fly to Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi), then take an intercity bus to Uong Bi Bus Station, and from there, grab a taxi to Phoenix Peak. Alternatively, you can fly directly to Van Don International Airport (Quang Ninh), and then rent a car or taxi to the base of Phoenix Peak.

You can also use the shuttle service provided by Kem Camping to travel from the foot of the mountain up to the summit of Phoenix Peak.

Kame spent one night camping at the peak and chose the all-inclusive camping package from Kem Camping (Contact: Mr. Hà – 0904106360). With this option, all you need to do is arrange transportation to the base of the mountain—Kem Camping takes care of everything else from A to Z, including your ride to the top, meals, tents, and overnight stay.

4. What to do at Phoenix Peak?

Chasing the perfect shot:

Set your heart free in the vast embrace of Phoenix Peak, where golden meadows stretch endlessly under open skies. Winding trails weave through the hills, lined with tall, “lonely” pine trees that stand like silent sentinels of the mountain breeze. Rustic wooden fences curl along the paths, evoking a nostalgic charm straight out of a Korean drama. Here, every corner feels like a scene from a dream—and no matter where you stand, you’re already in the frame of a breathtaking photograph. Let the light, the wind, and the wild beauty of nature guide your lens—and your soul.

Wooden fences line the winding paths leading to the summit of Phoenix Peak, blending timeless elegance with a touch of nomadic charm. They curve gently with the road, whispering stories of distant lands and quiet adventures, adding a rustic allure to the mountain’s serene beauty. Each bend feels like a page from a poetic journey, inviting you to wander, dream, and fall in love with the wild.

The winding trails meander through romantic meadows, where the tall grasses sway like waves under the whisper of the wind. Each path feels like a gentle invitation to wander deeper into nature’s embrace—perfect for slow walks, daydreams, and golden-hour moments that linger in the heart.

Amid the sunburnt hills brushed in shades of reddish-brown, lone pine trees stand tall and lush—a striking contrast of green against the warm earth. This dreamy scene at Phoenix Peak feels like a real-life postcard, a picture-perfect haven for those in search of a little magic and a lot of wonder.

The hilltop is a dreamlike vantage point, where golden light kisses the landscape and waves of emerald mountains roll endlessly into the distance—vast, majestic, and utterly enchanting.

Standing at the summit, you’re surrounded by the vast, open beauty of nature—endless hills rolling into the horizon. Beneath the fluttering Red Flag with its golden star, swaying gently in the mountain breeze, there’s a quiet sense of pride and peace, as if you’re both grounded in the heart of the land and soaring high above it.

One of the most beloved photo spots among young travelers is the “lone pine”—a solitary tree standing proudly amidst the wide-open hills, quietly poetic in its solitude.

Cloud hunting

And if you’re lucky, you’ll catch the sea of clouds that graces Phoenix Peak on special mornings. Soft and billowy, the clouds drift like silk ribbons gently embracing the lush green hills, creating a dreamscape both surreal and serene. Ever-changing, the cloudscape can be calm and still one moment, then roll and swirl with untamed grace the next. It’s an unforgettable cloud-hunting experience—magical and unique to Phoenix Peak.

Photo: collected

Sunrise and Sunset magic

At the crest of Phoenix Peak, where the sky stretches endlessly and the earth falls away in soft, golden waves, the sunrise feels like a quiet love letter from the universe. As the first rays break over the hills, the world is bathed in a warm, amber glow—just as the poet once said, “The sun is the hearth, and its rays the glowing embers.”

And when the day begins to fade, the sunset arrives like a gentle farewell, painting the sky in hues of rose and flame. It’s a moment to hold close, where time slows down, hearts grow still, and nature wraps you in its quiet embrace.

Under the golden light of the sun, Phoenix Peak during the dry grass season transforms into a radiant spectacle. The sun’s rays blanket the hillside, turning the russet-red grass into a warm, glowing tapestry. It’s a stunning yet unspoiled landscape—where the raw beauty of nature remains intact, and the harmony between earth, sky, and meadow paints a scene both vivid and serene.

Make sure to check the sunrise time so you can begin your walk from the campsite to the summit at just the right moment. Mornings at Phoenix Peak tend to be crisp and breezy, so don’t forget to layer up—there’s something magical about greeting the dawn wrapped in warmth, with the sky slowly blushing awake around you.

Sunset at Phoenix Peak is when earth and sky quietly melt into each other—a fleeting, golden moment of stillness. As the sun dips low, the entire hillside seems to change its colors one last time, slipping into a darker shade, wrapped in a gentle hush of mist and evening chill. It’s a tender goodbye to the day, and a soft welcome to the mystery of night.

Camping at Phoenix Peak

Phoenix Peak is a dreamlike spot for an overnight camping escape—a place where the stars feel closer, and the world slows down. If you choose the all-inclusive 700k VND package from Kem Camping (just like Kame’s group did), everything is taken care of—from cozy tents and hearty meals to clean water and surprisingly decent restrooms.

The highlight? The beautiful Mongolian-style tents, in their signature creamy white. Simple in design, yet striking against the vibrant natural backdrop—they blend comfort and charm in the most effortless way. Nestled beneath the open sky, they offer a peaceful retreat where you can truly unwind, reconnect, and fall in love with the stillness of the mountains.

As the evening mist slowly settles over the hills, there’s nothing sweeter than gathering around a warm, glowing fire with friends and loved ones. The scent of sizzling BBQ fills the air, music hums softly in the background, and conversations flow with ease—gentle, heartfelt, and unhurried.

In that golden moment, you’re simply present listening to the whisper of the wind, feeling the mountain air, and gazing out toward the twinkling city lights far below. It’s a memory painted in warmth, laughter, and the quiet kind of magic only found in the wild.

DIY Camping for the Free spirits

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves doing things your own way—or just looking to keep it budget-friendly—you can totally bring your own camping gear. A tent, a little stove or grill, some prepped food or snacks, and you’re all set for a cozy night under the stars.

When you drive up with your own setup, there’s no need to worry about extra service costs. The only thing you’ll need to cover is a small trash-cleaning fee, usually around 20,000–50,000 VND per night. Simple, affordable, and full of that do-it-yourself charm.

It’s the perfect way to connect with nature on your own terms—just you, the mountains, and a sky full of stars.

Trekking or Cycling: Explore the hills your way

The summit area of Phoenix Peak is vast and open, with gently sloping hills that stretch endlessly across the horizon. To truly soak in its beauty and check in at both sides of this expansive landscape, you can choose to explore on foot or hop on a bicycle.

Cycling along the winding trails gives you the freedom to roam at your own pace—through tall grasses, under scattered pines, and across sunlit paths where the breeze feels like a quiet song. Whether you’re chasing views or just the joy of the ride, it’s a magical way to connect with the mountain.

If you’re into exciting experiences, you can join a bike tour to explore the hills of Phoenix Peak. Tours usually cost around 500,000–950,000 VND per person, and include helpful extras like a local guide, snacks, drinks, and full support during the ride.

Want to explore on your own and save some money? You can also rent a bike for just 20,000–50,000 VND per hour and enjoy the ride at your own pace. It’s a fun and flexible way to take in the scenery and discover hidden corners of the mountain.

5. Travel tips for exploring Phoenix peak:

Before heading off on your adventure, here are a few helpful tips to make your trip smooth and unforgettable:

🌦️ Check the weather before you go:
Phoenix Peak is best enjoyed on clear days. Rainy weather not only dulls the landscape but also makes the road slippery and much harder to navigate.

🌬️ Dusty trails during dry season:
In sunny weather, the roads can get dusty, which may reduce visibility—especially when driving. Stay focused and drive cautiously to avoid blind spots and unexpected obstacles.

🚗 Narrow Mountain roads:
Some parts of the road are quite narrow and may have oncoming traffic. Keep your speed steady and slow, and be prepared to yield when needed.

🍃 Four seasons in a single day:
One of Phoenix Peak’s charms is its ever-changing weather. Mornings feel like spring—cool and fresh. By noon, it warms up like summer. Afternoons are breezy and mild, while evenings often bring strong winds and a chill in the air.

🎒 Pack smart and dress in layers:
To stay comfortable (and stylish for photos!), bring clothes for different temperatures—light layers for warm moments and a jacket or windbreaker for the evening chill. This way, you’ll stay cozy and ready for all your scenic check-ins!

Phoenix Peak is known for its unique weather—you might feel all four seasons in just one day. That means a cool, crisp morning, a warm sunny noon, a breezy autumn-like afternoon, and chilly winds as night falls. To stay comfortable and healthy, bring a variety of clothing and layer up as the weather shifts.

☀️ Sun and dust protection:
You’ll be crossing long stretches of dusty mountain roads, so it’s a good idea to pack a face mask, sunglasses, and a lightweight jacket for sun and dust protection.

🧼 Personal essentials
Don’t forget your toiletries—a toothbrush, toothpaste, and especially mosquito spray, as you’ll be surrounded by nature. A small hygiene kit will go a long way toward keeping you fresh and comfortable during your stay.

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