Shika Snow Mountain (石卡雪山) is the most accessible 4000-meter peak near the city of Shangri-La (香格里拉市). Located only 10 km from the city, the peak is frequented by tourists taking the cable car nearly to the summit. From the upper station, the hike and scramble to the top takes 20 minutes.
Status of Hiking Trails
Several trails provide fine opportunities for hikers. However, hiking is discouraged or officially banned in some areas by the cable car company. An example is the road, newly graveled as of 2025, from the base station to the middle station (not shown on the map). Hikers on the road have been turned back by company employees.
A welcome exception is the dirt road from the middle station to Lingxi Lake, which may be traversed on foot or by small bus tours offered by the company for a fee. You are probably fine on other trails provided you stay under the radar and avoid interactions with company staff.