Cao Bang: Ban Viet Lake glows red during the season when the maple trees change their leaves.

In early winter, Ban Viet Lake (Dam Thuy commune, Cao Bang province) is adorned with the red hues of the maple forest, a tranquil stop on the way to Ban Gioc Waterfall. This is the largest artificial lake in the province, covering about 5 hectares, located about 3 km from Ban Gioc Waterfall and about 70 km from the center of Cao Bang city (formerly), making it convenient to include in a day trip.

From mid-December to early January, the lake usually experiences little rain, with clear water and a distinct leafy color; in the afternoons, the water is calm, ideal for light activities such as rafting, boating, or strolling along the shore. The path around the lake is mostly flat, with a few gentle slopes; camping at night is peaceful, but you need to bring enough warm clothing.

The beauty of the fragrant maple forest beside the blue water.

The area surrounding the lake is covered with rich vegetation, most notably the fragrant maple trees — which the locals call "sau" trees. Fragrant maples grow scattered throughout many forests of Cao Bang, but are concentrated in large numbers in the area near Ban Viet Lake.

In winter, maple leaves gradually change from yellow to red, standing out against the turquoise water. This is considered by many tourists to be the most beautiful time of year due to the dramatic change in the landscape.

Enjoy a leisurely experience by the lake.

In the afternoon, a gentle breeze calms the water, ideal for rafting, boating, or strolling along the flat paths along the shore. For those who enjoy light exercise, the trails around the lake are easily accessible and suitable even for those without hiking experience.

"The photos online looked beautiful, but the foliage was even more vibrant and vivid in person. The lake is a good size, and the access road is easy to navigate… If there were more signposts and a few suitable stopping points, this place would attract even more visitors.""Ms. Le Minh Hanh (Bac Ninh) shared."

“The roads around the lake are mostly flat dirt roads, with a few gentle slopes, but nothing too difficult. Camping at night is also very quiet; just bring enough warm clothing because the temperature drops at night. I think it would be more convenient for visitors if the local authorities added public restrooms.”"That's what Mr. Hoang Duc Long (Thai Nguyen) said."

Combine nearby itineraries

From Ban Viet Lake, you can continue to nearby famous spots such as Ban Gioc Waterfall, Nguom Ngao Cave, or Co La Waterfall. Its location, only about 3 km from Ban Gioc Waterfall, makes the journey seamless and saves travel time between points.

Practical information for the trip

• Scale and location: The largest artificial lake in Cao Bang province, covering approximately 5 hectares; about 3 km from Ban Gioc Waterfall; and about 70 km from the center of the former Cao Bang City.
• Best time to visit: According to locals, the period from mid-December to early January usually has less rain, the water is clear, and the leaves are at their most vibrant.
• Terrain and activities: The paths around the lake are mostly flat, with a few gentle slopes; suitable for rafting, boating, and walking. Camping is possible in the evening if you prepare enough warm clothing.
• Amenities: Some visitors have suggested adding more signage, rest stops, and public restrooms for greater convenience.

A few tips for a more complete experience.

• Choose the afternoon hours to meet the calm lake, making it easier to take photos reflecting the rows of fragrant maple trees.
• Bring warm clothing and thermal wear if you plan to camp overnight.
• Wear shoes with good grip for the dirt paths and gentle slopes around the lake.

Ban Viet Lake is not noisy, but its tranquility and the changing colors of the leaves create an unforgettable attraction on a journey to explore the landscapes of Cao Bang.