Geopark seals off dangerous hiking trails

The Dapeng Peninsula National Geopark, Shenzhen’s only national-level geological park, issued an official notice yesterday evening to seal off the area around Wanglanggui Peak. The move came after a hiker died suddenly in the area on Sunday, reportedly due to exhaustion.

The Dapeng Peninsula National Geopark is Shenzhen’s only national-level geological park. File photos unless otherwise stated

“Wanglanggui Peak and its surrounding areas are undeveloped and not officially open to hiking. The terrain is complex and poses potential hazards,” the notice stated. “The park has therefore closed the area in accordance with national geopark management regulations. For your own safety, please do not enter.”

Recent photos posted by internet users on social media show trails leading to the peak already blocked with barbed wire.

Often compared to Hong Kong’s Amah Rock, Wanglanggui — whose name means “Gazing‑Out‑to‑Sea Woman” — is said to resemble the figure of a woman looking toward the ocean. Legend holds that a village woman from ancient times, forever awaiting her fisherman husband, turned into this peak. Surrounded on three sides by dramatic sea views, it overlooks Sanmen Island and several smaller islets in the distance.

Three popular routes lead to the 434-meter-high peak, located southeast of the main summit of Mount Qiniang. According to local hikers, the easiest of these takes at least five hours to complete and is “not suitable” for beginners or children.

The latest incident where a man died Sunday during hiking occurred near Dingxin Lake. Thepaper.cn

On Sunday afternoon, local police received a report that a man around 40 years old had collapsed near Dingxin Lake on the most accessible trail. Despite receiving first aid, he died at the scene. Chinese media reported that the man had undergone heart surgery 14 years earlier and had a history of cardiac disease. A preliminary autopsy confirmed natural sudden death, likely triggered by a heart attack, with no obvious signs of injury from the fall.

Between Aug. 10 and Oct. 16 of 2025, three other men died in the area after getting lost, the youngest only 27 years old. All three had been hiking alone and lost contact in the remote terrain.

On Oct. 24, the geopark posted a warning on its official WeChat account reminding hikers of the dangers. “The breathtaking scenery can be a death trap,” it said. “There is no mobile signal, no rescue infrastructure, and the rough trails hide unexpected risks.” Despite warning signs and regular patrols to deter entry, many local hikers continue to risk their lives for the thrill and the 270‑degree unobstructed views from the top.

Since 2023, the park has dispatched rescue teams in 229 cases, often involving hikers trapped after dark with depleted supplies.

A view of the sea from Wanglanggui Peak.

The geopark features volcanic remains formed approximately 145 million years ago as well as striking coastal landforms. Its spectacular seascapes and sunset views have long made it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.

Earlier, on Jan. 9, China’s sports authorities issued a notice urging local departments to strengthen oversight and prohibit hiking in hazardous areas of nature reserves that are not officially open to the public.