On the second day of the trip, we arrived at the foot of Mount Huangshan to begin our expedition from Hangzhou. Riding the cable cars to the station, we proceeded to the first hotel where we stayed.

After lunch, we trudged in this mountainous terrain. Going up and down, we reached the "Beginning to Believe Peak", where it is allegedly the place to view all kinds of pines of Huangshan. Until then, my legs were still working, and my breath was still smooth. When we returned to the hotel, on relatively flat ground, I fell because I missed my step. My teammates helped me stand up at once. Fortunately, I scratched my right elbow only; no other serious injuries.

The next day was an ordeal for me. With one hand holding the cane, and the other grasping the handrails, I nearly groped my way in every single step on my sore thighs and calves. Viewing the scenery en route? No way, except when the tour guides let us take a break. When we were finally approaching a cable car station to ride upward back, my legs completely failed me. Two guides supported me by my arms to finish the last thirty meters. All of my teammates applauded to greet me on the platform. Oh my goodness! 

I gave up the tough task on the third day: Celestial Peak (Tiandu Peak), partly because there were no handrails along a section on the ridge, and partly because it was misty over there. Only one-third of the teammates completed the job; they are, on average, ten years younger than I am. 

Now I returned home safe and sound, barely. 

PS. Huangshan is magnificent indeed. It is worthwhile to visit if you are not a quasi-octogenarian like me.