- Introduction to Bac Sum Slope
- History of Bac Sum Slope
- What Makes Bac Sum Slope Special?
- Tips for Visiting Bac Sum Slope
- Bac Sum Slope’s Nearby Attractions
- Conclusion
Tucked away in Vietnam’s northern mountains, Bac Sum Slope is where your Ha Giang Loop adventure truly begins. Located on the way from Ha Giang Province to Quan Ba, it marks the transition between the lowlands and the highlands before your exciting trip. If you’re chasing that first rush of freedom on two wheels or in search of raw mountain beauty, Bac Sum slope is your perfect starting point.
Introduction to Bac Sum Slope
Bac Sum Slope (in Vietnamese: Đèo Bắc Sum) lies along National Highway 4C, connecting Vi Xuyen District with Quan Ba District in Ha Giang Province, Northern Vietnam. For anyone heading out on the Ha Giang Loop, Bac Sum Slope is usually the first path you will see.
Located on the way to Quan Ba, this slope climbs steadily, twisting along the mountain ridge, connecting the lowlands to the highlands of Ha Giang. It’s a scenic introduction to the road trip ahead, famous among many adventurers and photographers. With every curve, travellers can expect to see mountain curves and a great viewpoint of the valleys below.
History of Bac Sum Slope
Historically, this road was part of the strategic transport route built to improve accessibility between remote mountainous communes and the provincial center. The slope was reconstructed and paved in the early 2010s as part of the provincial government’s initiative to boost tourism and economic development in the Ha Giang region. Though not as high or dramatic as Ma Pi Leng Pass, Bac Sum Slope holds symbolic significance as the first step into the breathtaking and culturally rich landscape of Ha Giang’s far north.
What Makes Bac Sum Slope Special?
Bac Sum Slope is famous for its winding curves that hug the mountainside like a ribbon laid out by nature. These curves offer not just an exciting ride but also some of the best photo opportunities early in your journey. As one of the first elevated viewpoints on the Loop, it gives you the full view of Ha Giang karst terrain. And because it comes early in the route, it’s less crowded than later stops – ideal for a quiet start to your trip.
What makes Bac Sum Slope even more memorable is how unexpectedly beautiful it is for such an early stop. Most people are still getting used to their bikes or just settling into the rhythm of the road, so this slope often catches them by surprise. And even though it’s not the most difficult part of the Loop, like Ma Pi Leng pass or Tham Ma slope, Bac Sum still offers a satisfying mix of challenge and charm. You’ll need to keep your focus as the road curves tightly around the hills, but the payoff is always worth it.
Tips for Visiting Bac Sum Slope
How to get through Bac Sum Slope?
The best way to reach Bac Sum Slope is by motorbike, either riding yourself from Ha Giang or with the help of a local driver. If you’re not comfortable on a motorbike, booking Bac Sum slope tours with an easy rider, or even a car tour with a steady seat, is a great way to enjoy the views without stress. It also gives you more time to take photos and appreciate the surroundings without worrying about the road.
When should you visit Bac Sum Slope?
Lighting can make a huge difference driving over Bac Sum slope, especially if you’re hoping to capture the curves of the road against the mountains. Therefore, early morning and late afternoon offer the most flattering conditions, with soft sunlight that bathes the scene in golden tones.
The weather also tends to be cooler and clearer at these times, giving you the best chance for an uninterrupted view. When visiting Bac Sum slope, you should aim to avoid midday when the light is harsh and the road might be busier with tour groups.
Be aware of the weather on Bac Sum Slope
While the road itself is manageable for beginners, it’s important to take it slow and stay aware of the sharp bends. Rain can make the surface slippery, and occasional patches of gravel might surprise even experienced riders. If you’re new to motorbiking, treat this slope as a warm-up for the more intense sections like Ma Pi Leng or Tham Ma. Always ride within your comfort zone – there’s no rush, and the views are better when you’re not stressed.
Stop by the top of Bac Sum Slope for a good viewpoint
There’s a popular viewpoint partway up Bac Sum slope where many riders stop for a quick break or to snap photos. From here, you can look back and see the road winding up through the valley like a silver thread. It’s a good place to stretch your legs, chat with fellow travelers, or just sit in silence and take it all in. If you are a photographer, this is also a great chance to take a good picture of the Ha Giang Loop.
Bac Sum Slope’s Nearby Attractions
Dong Van Karst Geopark
After conquering Bac Sum Slope, one of the next iconic stops is Quan Ba Heaven Gate, a pass that opens up to sweeping mountain views and marks your official entrance into the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark. From this point, you can catch the full view of the karst plateau and the misty scenes of Ha Giang.
Quan Ba Twin Mountains
Not far from Heaven Gate are the famous Quan Ba Twin Mountains, named for their unique shape. Surrounded by rice fields and set against the backdrop of towering limestone cliffs, they’re a favorite photo stop for both tourists and locals. This quirky natural formation adds a playful touch to the rugged landscape, together with a long-term legend of Ha Giang.
Tha Village
If you’re finding a place to stay, consider Tha Village, located a short ride from Ha Giang Province before you reach Bac Sum slope. This traditional Tay ethnic village offers peaceful homestays, bamboo stilt houses, and a quiet rhythm of life that contrasts with the adventure of the Loop. Spend a night here before starting your ride to get a feel for the local culture and enjoy a hearty home-cooked meal. It’s a soft beginning to a trip that only gets wilder as you go.
Little Ma Pi Leng Canyon
And of course, when visiting Ha Giang, visit the little Ma Pi Leng canyon on Nho Que river is a must. This river is beautifully winding aroung Ha Giang, just like Bac Sum slope and Ma Pi Leng pass, and is a great viewpoint of the majestic mountains surrounding it. The road to the canyon can be hard to access, and boat rides are limited, but this is definitely an experience you don’t want to miss.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an experienced rider or a first-time traveler, Bac Sum slope tours are perfect start for your Ha Giang adventure. If you’re planning your Ha Giang trip, make sure to pay Bac Sum slope a visit – it will definitely make your trip more memorable.
If you cannot map out your trip to Ha Giang Loop yet, book a tour with us and let us help you plan a responsible tour instead! We are dedicated to responsible tourism and local community development in Ha Giang. Our local guides will be than happy to guide you through all the hidden gems in Vietnam’s northern mountains!
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