Not tagged as hiking. The Dragon Gate stair is steep and spectacular, and it is a built scenic route with railings and a queue.
The view is the lake. Haze happens. A clear morning is the whole difference.
Getting there
A ride to the west side of Dianchi, then the park entrance. It can share a day with the lake shore if you start with the hills. It cannot share a day with the Stone Forest.
Staying nearby
Central Kunming. There are simple lodgings on the hill for sunrise. Most visitors should sleep in the city and accept the ride.