| Distance: 14.3 kilometers | Elevation: 730m | Difficulty: Medium |
What to expect on this trail?
This trail loop starts at the scenic Huay Lan Reservoir and climbs up to the Doi Ngum pagoda. Don’t be deceived by the distance, the steep and technical climbs make this route harder then you might think. It is definitely not a fast route, and you will probably be doing a lot of power-hiking. But the reward for your effort is some amazing views along the way.
Huay Lan to Doi Ngum Trail in detail
This route starts from the small reservoir, further down the road from the main Huay Lan Reservoir. There is some space for parking, but no other facilities. Also note that locals feed stray dogs in this area, so you may see a lot of dogs when you arrive. They are friendly though, and if you leave them alone they will leave you alone.
The first part of the trail is over a double track route, great to run comfortably and good to warm up. Then you soon turn right onto a staircase. The staircase is easy to find, though a bit overgrown. You will cover much of the elevation gain of the route on this section, so take it easy and don’t burn yourself out too quickly. The climbing goes on for a while until the staircase makes way for a single track along some rocky cliffs, and finally a very steep ascent on ladders. They are not in the best shape, but good enough to get you up safely.
When you are at the top of this first climbing section you will immediately get to enjoy some amazing views of the Huay Lan Reservoirs. Quite amazing especially in the early hours! From there it’s only a short run towards the Doi ngum Pagoda. You will need to go right onto the double track road and come back the same way later. But the little detour is very much worth it.
Doi Ngum Pagoda offers amazing views over the valley below and the mountains of Lamphun in the distance. It’s also a bit of a pilgrimage site as this place is linked to the venerated Kruba Sriwichai. After a short break head back down the road and keep your eye out for a small trail head on your left side. This is where you get out into the nature and where the trail really gets interesting.
Following the ridge you will slowly loop back to where you started, but along the way there are a number of challenging peaks to conquer. The trail also is not always obvious, so having a GPS device is essential for this route. Along the way more amazing views are waiting for you, so the adventure is really worth it. Before starting to descent slowly via a riverbed, you will have to conquer a section that is nicknamed “The Wall”. Quite a challenge and not for the faint of heart!
The return section through the riverbed is beautiful, but you will again need to use a GPS device to avoid getting lost. Also prepare to get wet feet during the rainy season as you will cross the riverbed on several occasions. The last section is a nice double track where you can run comfortably back to where you started to complete the loop.
Doi Ngum Pagoda is the highlight of the route, but there are nice views at other places too. 
The climb from the reservoir to Doi Ngum is very steep, but luckily there are ladders. With clear skies the views along the route are absolutely breathtaking. At the top of the first climb the Doi Ngum Pagoda is waiting for you. It is a small detour from the trail route, but very much worth it! The trails along the route are technical, but there are great views as well.
Tips for this trail
- It is best to leave early for this route, if possible before the sunrise. This way you can enjoy the most beautiful views from the Huay Lan and Doi Ngum areas.
- The route is not for beginners, it is quite technical and it goes deep into the woods without any facilities along the way. You will need sturdy shoes with good grip for the sections with loose gravel and rocks.
- You absolutely need a GPS device.
- For a post-run coffee, a snack, or a dip in the pool, you can have a stop at Baan Pong Lodge which is located near the entrance of Huay Lan Reservoir.
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Mae Wang Waterfalls, Rice & Elephants Trail Loop
Huay Tueng Tao Short Trail Loop
The Monk’s Trail with Viewpoint Loop
