Hidden cloud hunting spots that only backpackers know

Not everyone is drawn to cloud hunting, but once someone experiences the sensation of standing amidst a sea of drifting clouds, it becomes nearly addictive. However, popular spots like Ta Xua, Y Ty, or Da Lat have grown crowded over time, losing the stillness and surprise that once made them magical. As a result, many travelers now seek out newly emerging cloud-hunting locations that remain untouched and lesser known. These are often unnamed on the map, shared only in whispers across small travel communities or captured in fleeting photos on social media. And that is exactly what makes them so alluring, raw, and deeply moving.

In the northern highlands of Vietnam, new names are beginning to gain attention among cloud-chasing enthusiasts. Instead of crowding the well-known Ta Xua peak, a quieter trail in Hang Dong commune has emerged as an attractive alternative. This area lies within the ideal microclimate for low-lying clouds but offers moderate elevation and wide, open views without the need for strenuous trekking. On misty mornings, travelers can simply pitch a tent along the hillside, wake up around 4 a.m., and wait for dawn to catch layers of clouds rolling like waves over the valley.

Further west in Lai Chau, a nameless hill near Ta Leng village is capturing the interest of local adventurers. There is no marked trail leading to the top, and locals often navigate through narrow forest paths. But the reward is a sweeping view that stretches across the Hoang Lien mountain range, with glimpses of Fansipan visible on clear days. Clouds here usually form between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m., dense and fast-moving, perfect for dramatic time-lapse footage. Those who have been recommend staying overnight in the village and hiring a local guide to begin the journey at 3 a.m. for the best light.

On the cloud map of the North, Nam Cang near Sa Pa used to be overlooked due to its remote access. Now, with a few wooden homestays opening up, this peaceful village at the edge of a primeval forest offers an authentic cloud-hunting experience, far from mass tourism. Clouds typically appear in the winter and spring months, though they may not be overly thick. What makes this place special is the background ambiance of murmuring streams, whispering bamboo groves, and gentle sunlight breaking through the mist.

Shifting southwest to Ky Son near the Laos border in Nghe An Province, the Na Ngoi region is an unexpected gem. Nestled at the foot of the Truong Son range, visitors can stop at former border guard posts offering panoramic views over vast cloudscapes. Due to its unique topography, clouds here form not only in the valleys but also horizontally across the mountain slopes, creating a rare three-layer effect. Locals, who rise early to tend to their fields, often become impromptu guides, sharing when and where to spot the best cloud formations. A handy tip is to visit right after a heavy rain followed by dry, chilly weather for a higher chance of catching dense cloud cover.

In the Central Highlands, Gia Lai is starting to draw attention with Chu Nam peak, a secluded mountain not yet known by many travelers. From October to December, this area often sees thick clouds forming in the early morning. The climb is steep and lacks a defined trail, but it is possible with help from locals. What sets this place apart is the surrounding ancient pine forest, an unusual sight on the basaltic soil of the highlands, which adds a magical backdrop to the misty scene.

In Lam Dong, rather than returning to the well-worn paths of Cau Dat tea hill or Tram Hanh, experienced explorers are turning toward Ta Dung peak in Da Teh District. Although it sits near the more famous Ta Dung Lake, the mountain peak itself is remote, requiring a forest detour to reach the top. Here, cloud hunting comes with an unparalleled bonus: a view down to the lake scattered with small forested islands, creating a mirror-like reflection. The clouds drift slowly through the peaks, resembling a traditional ink painting. For photographers, a good tip is to bring an ND filter to capture the rapidly changing light at sunrise.

An unexpected addition to the list is Co To Mountain in Quang Ngai. Though it is not as tall as the northern peaks, its proximity to the sea and high humidity often produce clouds clinging to the slopes during early winter mornings. Locals rarely pay attention to this phenomenon, but a few photographers have captured surreal scenes of mist weaving through rugged cliffs and ancient rock formations.

For those with limited time, Ba Vi Mountain near Hanoi still offers viable cloud-hunting opportunities. Instead of using the main entrance, seasoned travelers now recommend less-traveled paths from Yen Bai commune. These alternative routes require about an hour of hiking to reach hidden viewpoints beyond the crowded tourist zone. From here, one can gaze at layers of fog floating gently through silent forests. A smart trick is to bring a light windbreaker, warm water, and thermal gear since temperatures can drop below 12 degrees Celsius on the coldest mornings.

No matter the location, one unchanging rule applies to cloud hunting: beautiful clouds reward patience. Many have woken at 3 a.m., trekked through rugged terrain, only to find a thin layer of fog. But sometimes, in a fleeting moment, the sky opens up and unveils a cloud sea more breathtaking than imagined. It is precisely the unpredictability that makes each journey unforgettable.

Not all cloud-hunting destinations are suitable for everyone, but anyone can begin with easy-to-reach spots and gradually venture farther. Starting with curiosity, holding on to patience, and arming oneself with the right knowledge and gear, cloud hunting transforms from a quest for scenic beauty into a personal challenge. It becomes a quiet triumph over exhaustion, over the cold dawn, and eventually over the layers of drifting cloud never seen before.