Binh Lieu Dinosaur Backbone: Trekking Tips for Reed Grass Season

1 Where is Binh Lieu Dinosaur Backbone?

Address: Northeastern Quang Ninh Province.

Binh Lieu is a mountainous district in northeastern Quang Ninh Province. It features diverse terrain, with high mountain ranges belonging to the Dong Trieu arc and a border stretching for more than 40km along China. Known as the “miniature Sa Pa” of the coastal region, Binh Lieu boasts the pristine, untouched beauty of nature as well as the distinctive cultural values of the Tay, Dao, and San Chi ethnic groups.

This destination attracts visitors with winding border patrol routes, golden rice terraces in autumn, and majestic waterfalls hidden deep in the forest. However, the soul of tourism in Binh Lieu lies in its system of sacred border markers and the legendary Binh Lieu Dinosaur Backbone trekking route. This is not only a destination for those who love exploration but also a place that inspires love for the homeland, as every step leaves a mark on the nation’s frontier land.

Dinosaur Backbone is located on the boundary between Hoanh Mo and Dong Van communes. This is a winding border patrol route running along a high mountain range, home to Border Marker 1305—the highest marker not only in Binh Lieu but also in the entire province of Quang Ninh.

In reality, “Dinosaur Backbone” is a tiny, winding trail resembling a silk ribbon draped precariously across the summits of successive mountains. Seen from a distance, the route looks like the back of a gigantic dinosaur sleeping amid the deep green mountains.

Deep abysses and vast valleys lie on either side of the path. Each autumn, instead of the green of trees and grass, this entire backbone is covered with a pure white cloak of reed grass fields. The result is a scene that is both majestic and breathtakingly poetic.

2 The ideal time to explore Binh Lieu Dinosaur Backbone

Unlike other highland areas, Binh Lieu has its own distinct beauty in every season. However, to fully experience the interplay of sky, clouds, and vegetation, visitors often choose the following two “golden” periods.

2.1 Conquering Binh Lieu Dinosaur Backbone during the pure white reed grass season (October - November)

This is the peak tourist season in Binh Lieu and Ha Long. From around mid-October to late November, the entire frontier region seems to awaken beneath the white hue of reed grass. The reeds in Binh Lieu do not grow individually but form vast fields stretching from the foot of the mountain all the way to the summit where the border marker stands.

The most wonderful experience comes during brilliant sunset afternoons. As the sun gradually disappears behind the distant mountain ranges, golden-orange light tinges the white reeds pink, making the surroundings seem magical, like a scene from a film. At this moment, standing amid Dinosaur Backbone, breathing in the cool air, and watching waves of reeds sway in the wind will be an unforgettable memory.

2.2 Golden rice season and other flower seasons (August - January)

If you miss the reed grass season, Binh Lieu still awaits you with other colors:

- August - October: This is when the terraced fields in villages such as Luc Hon and Cao Thang enter the rice harvest season. The brilliant golden color stretching across the hillsides creates a feeling of warmth, abundance, and peace.

- December - January: When the northeast monsoon winds sweep in, Binh Lieu becomes gentle with the season of pure white sở flowers. This is also an ideal time for visitors to go cloud hunting on the high peaks, when clouds flow across Dinosaur Backbone like cascading waterfalls.

3 The trekking journey to conquer Border Marker 1305

Conquering Dinosaur Backbone is not for the faint-hearted or impatient. It is a physically demanding journey, but the reward is entirely worthwhile.

3.1 The challenge of 2,000 steps amid the clouds

In the past, Dinosaur Backbone was merely a narrow, slippery dirt trail that was extremely dangerous. Today, to ensure visitor safety and facilitate border patrols, a sturdy concrete path with nearly 2,000 stone steps has been built.

The route is approximately 2km long but has a fairly steep incline, winding along the mountain ridge. As you climb, you may feel as though you are walking halfway between heaven and earth, with mist-covered clouds on one side and steep cliffs on the other. The average travel time for the round trip is usually about 2 to 3 hours, depending on each person’s fitness and the time spent stopping to take photos.

3.2 Checking in at Border Marker 1305 - the “rooftop” of Binh Lieu’s frontier

Border Marker 1305 is the final point of the trekking journey. The moment you touch the sacred marker at an elevation of more than 1,305m above sea level, all fatigue seems to disappear. From this highest peak, you can take in a panoramic view of the mountain ranges along the Vietnam-China border. The feeling of national pride, combined with amazement at the beauty of nature, makes this moment deeply moving.

4 Transportation tips for traveling to Binh Lieu

To ensure a smooth trip, planning your transportation is extremely important, especially since Binh Lieu is still a mountainous district with infrastructure that is not yet highly developed.

- From Hanoi: You can travel by coach from My Dinh or Giap Bat bus stations, or, most conveniently, take a Limousine shuttle that offers door-to-door service. The most common route follows the Hanoi - Hai Phong Expressway, continues onto the Hai Phong - Quang Ninh - Van Don Expressway, then turns toward Tien Yen District to reach Binh Lieu. Total travel time is approximately 4 - 5 hours.

- From Ha Long: Take National Highway 18 toward Mong Cai. At the Tien Yen intersection, turn left onto National Highway 18C to reach Binh Lieu Town.

- Getting around Binh Lieu: After arriving in town, you should rent a motorbike for convenient travel to the foot of Border Marker 1305 (about 25km from town). This route is very scenic, with winding mountain passes, but requires confident riding skills.

5 Important tips for a safe trekking trip

Trekking Dinosaur Backbone is not as difficult as the mountain peaks of the Northwest, but it still requires careful preparation in terms of equipment and physical fitness.

- Prioritize specialized hiking shoes with good grip or comfortable sports shoes. Avoid high heels or fashionable sandals, as the 2,000 stone steps will make your feet “go on strike” immediately.

- Wear active clothing that wicks sweat well, and bring a light jacket or scarf. For women who want to take photos with the reed grass, you can pack a light dress in your backpack and change at spacious rest stops to capture the most dazzling photos while still moving around easily.

- Spend some time doing light training before the trip. Climbing 2,000 steps continuously requires strong legs and a healthy respiratory system.

- Bring enough drinking water (about 1-1.5 liters/person), some ginger candy to stay warm, and high-energy snacks such as dry rations, chocolate, pastries, or fruit to refuel along the way.

6 What to eat in Binh Lieu? Specialties you cannot miss

After a long day of physical activity, enjoying hearty frontier mountain specialties will help you quickly restore your energy.

6.1 Black chicken and grilled stream fish

Binh Lieu black chicken is famous for its firm, fragrant, and nutritious meat. It is often boiled or grilled with wild honey and distinctive herbs used by the Dao people. Crispy fried or charcoal-grilled stream fish is another “addictive” dish. The small fish are caught from natural streams; their meat is sweet and their bones crisp. Dipped in salt, chili, pepper, and squeezed lime, they are simply unbeatable.

6.2 Binh Lieu stir-fried pho and traditional cakes

The pho noodles here are handmade, wide, and thin, then stir-fried with local pork and forest vegetables to create a rich, distinctive flavor. In addition, don’t forget to try traditional cakes made by the Tay and Dao people, such as ngai cake, cooc mo cake, and the unique tai long ep.

7 Suggested attractions near Dinosaur Backbone

If you have made it to Binh Lieu, don’t stop at Dinosaur Backbone. This land has many other hidden gems waiting for you to explore.

7.1 Border Marker 1297 - a true reed grass paradise

If 1305 Backbone is renowned for its grandeur, 1297 is a true “reed grass paradise.” Compared with Border Marker 1305, the path to Border Marker 1297 is much easier, taking only about 10-15 minutes of gentle uphill climbing. This is where the reed grass is densest, forming enormous white carpets. 1297 is also the most beautiful “million-view” sunset-watching spot in Binh Lieu.

7.2 Khe Van Waterfall and Na Lang Suspension Bridge

- Khe Van Waterfall: This is Quang Ninh’s most majestic three-tiered waterfall, with a height of more than 100m. After tiring hours of climbing, immersing yourself in the cool water or sitting by the stream and listening to the sound of cascading water will soothe your soul like nothing else.

- Na Lang Suspension Bridge: An iron bridge with a distinctly nostalgic style, connecting ethnic minority villages. It is a wonderful check-in spot for photos with a strong vintage character.

The journey to conquer Binh Lieu Dinosaur Backbone is a challenge that pushes you beyond your limits to admire the exquisite beauty of the homeland. Standing on the high frontier, amid the clouds and endless fields of white reed grass, you will feel your heart beating faster with pride and a deep love of nature. Binh Lieu’s reed grass season is at its most beautiful, and the winding trails are still calling to adventurous footsteps. Don’t hesitate—pull out your travel suitcase and go, so you can experience a pristine, majestic Binh Lieu and preserve the most brilliant pieces of your youth at this legendary Dinosaur Backbone!