Dinosaur Backbone Tà Xùa – The Most Beautiful Cloud Hunting Spot In Tà Xùa

Speaking of Tà Xùa (Bắc Yên, Sơn La), one cannot overlook the Dinosaur Spine of Háng Đồng – a location dubbed as one of the most beautiful cloud hunting spots in the North. With a winding trail on the mountaintop, flanked by deep ravines and a sea of fluffy clouds, this place is always a dream destination for nature lovers, trekking enthusiasts, and those eager to explore the Northwestern mountains.

Where is the Dinosaur Spine of Tà Xùa?

The Dinosaur Spine is located in Háng Đồng commune, Bắc Yên district, Sơn La province, about 5 km from the center of Háng Đồng commune and about 15 km from the center of Tà Xùa commune.

This is part of the majestic Tà Xùa mountain range – a range that forms the natural boundary between Sơn La and Yên Bái. With the highest peak reaching 2,865 m, Tà Xùa is one of the tallest mountains in Vietnam and is famous for its stunning sea of clouds year-round.

Why is it called the Dinosaur Spine?

The name originates from the very shape of the mountain range. When viewed from afar, the trail, about 1.5 km long, running along the mountaintop resembles the spine of a giant dinosaur lying amidst the vast wilderness.

On one side are lush green slopes, and on the other is a valley hundreds of meters deep. This unique terrain has created one of the most impressive check-in spots in Tà Xùa.

What makes the Dinosaur Spine special?

What captivates visitors is not only its unique shape but also the breathtaking natural scenery.

Standing on the mountaintop, you can gaze out at the successive mountain ranges, the Hmong villages peeking through the valleys, and the terraced fields winding along the mountainside.

On days when the sea of clouds appears, the entire space transforms into a fairyland. The layers of white clouds roll through the valleys, embracing the mountain spine, creating a scene that is both majestic and poetic, hard to find elsewhere.

Experience cloud hunting at the Dinosaur Spine

This is considered one of the most beautiful cloud hunting spots in Tà Xùa.

The ideal time is from October to April of the following year when the weather is dry, and the temperature difference between day and night is significant, creating conditions for the formation of a sea of clouds.

The best hours are from 5:30 AM to 8:00 AM. As the sun gradually rises, the first rays of sunlight pierce through the sea of clouds, creating an incredibly spectacular scene.

If you are lucky enough to encounter good weather, you will feel as if you are walking among the layers of white clouds.

The journey to conquer the Dinosaur Spine

To reach the cloud hunting spot, visitors must pass through winding mountain roads and then continue walking along the mountain spine.

The trail is not too long but quite narrow, with many sections just wide enough for one person. On both sides are steep mountain slopes, so special care is needed when moving, especially on days with fog or after rain.

This challenge makes the journey to conquer the Dinosaur Spine even more memorable for explorers.

The best time to visit
October – April: The best cloud hunting season.
September – October: Can combine with viewing the golden ripe terraced fields.
Spring: Fresh weather, lush greenery, suitable for trekking.

If you want beautiful photos, you should start early in the morning to both hunt clouds and catch the sunrise on the mountaintop.

Some notes when conquering the Dinosaur Spine
Monitor the weather

The sea of clouds depends heavily on weather conditions. Before your trip, keep an eye on the forecast or ask the local homestay for the likelihood of cloud formation.

Choose suitable transportation

You can reach Tà Xùa by car or motorbike. If riding a motorbike, check the brakes, tires, lights, and fill up with gas before departure.

At the final stretch to the Dinosaur Spine, it is advisable to park and walk for safety.

Prepare clothing

The temperature on the mountain is quite cold, especially in the early morning and evening. You should bring:

• Windbreaker or thermal jacket.
• Thin raincoat.
• Spare clothes.
• Hat and gloves if going in winter.
• It is advisable to wear trekking shoes or sports shoes with good grip. Avoid sandals or smooth-soled shoes as the path has many rocks and is steep.
• Bring snacks.

Prepare:

• Drinking water.
• Bread.
• Sausages, fast food.
• A bit of cake to replenish energy.

If you want to capture beautiful moments, you should bring:

• Phone or camera.
• Power bank.
• Flashlight if starting very early.
• Waterproof bag to protect equipment in case of dew or rain.

Some important notes

• Do not go alone if it's your first time exploring the Dinosaur Spine.
• Avoid moving during heavy rain or thick fog.
• Do not push or shove when taking photos on narrow paths.
• Do not litter, break branches, or step on vegetation to preserve the natural landscape.
• Always follow the guidance of local people or guides if traveling in a group.

With its unique winding path, fluffy sea of clouds, and majestic mountain scenery, the Dinosaur Spine of Tà Xùa deserves to be a must-visit destination when exploring the highlands of the Northwest. Although the journey may be somewhat challenging, the feeling of standing on the mountain spine, watching the sunrise emerge amidst the sea of clouds, and capturing the beauty of the mountains and forests in your sight will surely become one of the most memorable experiences in your Tà Xùa trip.