Hidden amid the mountains and coastline of Dapeng Peninsula, Dapeng Peninsula National Geopark offers hikers two distinctive geological trails shaped by ancient volcanic activity.

The park centers on Dapeng Mountain, which rises 869.7 meters above sea level, making it Shenzhen’s second-highest peak. The area was formed by volcanic activity about 140 million years ago and today features some of the region’s most distinctive volcanic landscapes.

The park’s classic main peak exploration trail stretches 3.3 kilometers and typically takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours to complete one way. Rated four stars for difficulty, the route passes ancient volcanic rock formations, including spherulitic and folded rhyolite, whose patterns preserve traces of magma flow and cooling.

Among its highlights is the “Swaying Rock,” a 7- to 8-meter-high formation naturally split into three layers, as well as unusual rock formations near the summit. The mountain's high elevation and humid climate also bring frequent clouds and mist, creating ever-changing mountain views.

The 3.6-kilometer Luyan exploration trail also takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours to complete one way and climbs to the Dayanding summit, offering a broader mix of volcanic geology and coastal scenery.

Hikers can observe volcanic breccia and rhyolite along the route while overlooking the Luzui lagoon, where beaches, sand barriers, lagoons and mangroves form a distinctive coastal wetland ecosystem. Views also extend across clear waters and coastal landforms, including gravel beaches, sea caves and the Luzui headland.

At the summit, a well-preserved volcanic crater provides further evidence of the region’s geological past. The surrounding mountains are also home to seasonal wildflowers, adding color to the year-round green landscape.

Both trails are open daily from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., with no entry permitted after 4 p.m. Visitors are advised to plan their hikes accordingly.