Road 20 Quyết Thắng (Provincial Road 562) was once a vital transportation artery connecting East and West Trường Sơn during the resistance war against the United States. Stretching 125 kilometers and constructed beginning in 1965, this road is a symbol of bravery, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of Vietnam's youth who "traversed Trường Sơn to save the nation." The name "Road 20" reflects the average age of the thousands of young volunteers who laid down their lives here—those in their twenties, filled with dreams, youth, and fervor, enduring the jungle's bombs and hardships.

Today, Road 20 is not just a historical artery linking two regions but has become a unique ecological-historical tourist route. Deep within the vast Trường Sơn Mountains, every bend, every tree canopy, every murmuring stream seems to recount emotional stories from a time of smoke and fire.

Location and How to Get There

Road 20 lies within Thượng Trạch and Phong Nha communes of Bố Trạch district, Quảng Bình province, extending to the Cà Roòng area near the Vietnam-Laos border.

From Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City: Fly to Đồng Hới Airport, or take a train or coach to Đồng Hới Station, then travel 50–70km to Phong Nha.

From central Đồng Hới: Follow the eastern branch of the Hồ Chí Minh Road approximately 40km to Phong Nha.

Recommended transport: Motorbikes (for young, adventurous travelers), private cars (for families or groups of friends), or book a guided tour package.

Unmissable Experiences

Phong Nha Botanical Garden: A vibrant ecological painting, where visitors stroll through primary forests rich in diverse flora. Here, you can hike mild slopes, cross small streams, and trek to Windfall Waterfall—a cascade over 30 meters high, bursting white foam into the forest's heart. Attractions like the regenerated forest, native plant collection, and Dan Cave help guests better understand Trường Sơn's ecosystem.

Ozo Park: Vietnam's first treetop park, featuring a wooden bridge system over 2km long weaving through forest canopies. Guests can try adventure games like ziplining, rope challenges, or kayaking along the emerald Ozo stream. Resting areas among the woods with tents, bungalows, food service, and stream bathing spots offer relaxation after thrilling activities.

Command Cave (Hang Chỉ Huy): Located at Km12 of Road 20, this natural cave once served as a headquarters and supply depot for the 559 Command. Inside are seven functional levels: ammunition storage, medical stations, command rooms, etc. Here, you can experience 9D virtual reality technology recreating the arduous transport journeys amidst bombs. The sacred and vivid space helps visitors deeply appreciate the rear-line's efforts along the fiery Trường Sơn front.

Trạ Ang Bridge: Formerly Trạ Ang ford—one of the fiercest US bombing targets. The "Fuel and Blood" story recounts the heroic sacrifice of 29 transport soldiers to maintain fuel supplies for the front. Today, a new steel bridge spans the clear stream, offering a peaceful contrast to the solemn past.

Hang Tám Cô (Cave of Eight Girls): The most sacred site on Road 20. On November 14, 1972, a bombing collapsed the cave entrance, claiming the lives of eight female youth volunteers and five artillerymen. Today, a memorial complex stands here, with statues, name plaques, and a green garden. Incense and wind chimes create a solemn atmosphere where visitors naturally pause in reverence.

Nurse’s Cave (Hang Y Tá): About 2km from Hang Tám Cô, this site honors nurse Nguyễn Thị Sặng, who died during a rescue mission in 1972. A moss-covered shrine on a hillside preserves her compassion and dedication amid wartime.

Ba Thang Slope (Dốc Ba Thang): At Km16, one of the most treacherous sections of Road 20. Combat engineers once used three bamboo ladders to carve a path through the cliffs. Today, remnants of bomb-scarred rocks remain, offering insight into the terrain's severity and those who forged the route.

Cà Roòng Memorial Temple: Built atop a border hill, this temple honors hundreds of soldiers who fell at this key location, which endured over 17,500 tons of bombs. To visit, guests must register with the Cà Roòng Border Post and pass a checkpoint. From the temple, the endless green Trường Sơn range stretches into view.

Road 20 doesn’t merely narrate history with signboards—it speaks through forests, streams, sudden rains, and the profound silence of mountains.

Ideal Time to Visit

Spring (February–April): Cool weather, budding trees, perfect for trekking, camping, and nature photography.

Summer (May–August): Peak tourist season with sunshine and dry conditions suitable for forest and historical exploration. Avoid harsh midday heat.

Early Autumn (September): Forests shift in hue, weather remains pleasant, ideal for those who prefer tranquil nature and fewer crowds.

Rainy Season (late September to November): Travel becomes difficult due to heavy rain, landslides, and slippery roads. Check weather forecasts and have backup plans.

Winter (December–January): Cold with dense fog and damp forest paths. Less rain but chilly weather makes outdoor activities less ideal. Dress warmly and avoid deep forest routes. Misty green forests offer solemn, majestic beauty.

Who Should Visit?

This journey is for those who love exploration and yearn to hear history. From adventurous youth, backpacking groups, and photographers to families with older children or elders returning to their roots—everyone can find meaning here.

What to Prepare

Clothing: Lightweight, quick-dry clothes, sturdy shoes. Bring a light jacket, raincoat, and wide-brim hat.

Essentials: Water, snacks, flashlight, power bank, personal medication, sunscreen, mosquito repellent.

Transportation: Off-road motorbike or high-clearance vehicle. Fill up fuel and bring tire repair tools if traveling independently.

Health: The journey involves slopes, caves, and dense forests—physical fitness is required. Prepare necessary medications and travel in groups if needed.

Road 20 Quyết Thắng is not just a road, but a journey into memory. Let every step you take echo with the rhythm of history—and every drop of sweat exchanged for a proud moment of silence in the majestic Trường Sơn.

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