In September 2009, I climbed Huangshan moutnain with my mother. I am 42 and she is 73. We went up the eastern side in the morning (using the cable car), stayed the night on top, and climbed down the western steps to the western cable car the next day. If you rush, it can be done. You must be prepared to stop many times, as it is sometimes gruelling, all those stairs! There is lots of shade though. It truly is a wonderful mountain!

Thank you