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About

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park is located in the southern part of China directly east from the top of Myanmar.  Sitting near Lijiang in the Yulong province, the national park is also known as Yulong National Park or Lijiang Yulong National Park.

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is an enormous mountain with an elevation of 18,360 feet (5,596 m).  There are several peaks on the massive mountain with the highest summit accounted for by Shanzidou peak.

The mountain is also known as Mount Yulong as well as Yulong Snow Mountain.  The mountain is the anchor of the Yulong Mountain range which continues further north.

Black Dragon Pool is a pond located in the Jade Spring Park near Elephant Hill.  This is considered one of the more scenic views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.  Views of the mountain during an ascent are also breathtaking.

There is a cable car that takes visitors to an observation platform sitting at 14,783 feet (4,506 m) with stunning views of the mountain.  The more adventurous can continue hiking up to a second observation area at 15,350 (4,680 m) which provides better glimpses of the snowy summit.

Blue Moon Valley is a white river that runs through the valley of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain creating cascading waterfalls, four lakes separated by falls, and large boulders complementing the incredible landscape.

Tiger Leaping Gorge is a picturesque canyon that follows along the Jinsha River at the base of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.  The name is derived from a story featuring a tiger that escapes hunters by leaping across large rocks in the river at the narrowest point.  Although narrowest, the river still measured 82 feet (25 m) wide.

The river surface of Tiger Leaping Gorge sits 12,434 feet (3,790 m) below the summit creating one of the most stunning canyons in the world.  It is one of the deepest canyons in the world.

The Tiger Leaping Gorge stretches a distance of 9.3 miles (15 km) as it traverses through the renowned Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the neighboring Haba Snow Mountain at 17,703 feet (5,396 m).  The river creates rough rapids as it navigates through the steep cliffs of the canyon and rocks below.

Photos

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park

Things to See

The views from the ascent and summit of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain are phenomenal and one of the key highlights of the park.  The stunning Tiger Leaping Gorge leaves visitors speechless as they hike along with one of the deepest canyons in the world and gaze up at the magnificent canyon walls.

Those who are not interested in hiking the Tiger Leaping Gorge can see much of it by road allowing people to see rockslides, waterfalls, and the overall gorge.

Predators

Predators

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including a number of predator species that play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of this high-altitude ecosystem. These predators not only contribute to the biological diversity of the region but also attract wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.

Snow Leopard – Elusive and majestic, the snow leopard is a symbol of the mountain’s wild beauty, primarily hunting ibex and other mountain ungulates.

Asiatic Black Bear – This medium-sized bear has a distinctive white patch on its chest and is known for its ability to climb trees to forage for fruits and insects.

Eurasian Lynx – With its powerful body, tufted ears, and keen eyesight, the lynx preys primarily on smaller mammals and birds in dense forested areas.

Tibetan Fox – Recognizable by its square face and bushy tail, the Tibetan fox scavenges and hunts small mammals and birds on the plateau.

Golden Eagle – Majestic in flight, the golden eagle soars high to spot potential prey, such as rabbits and small mammals, across open areas.

Mountain Hawk-Eagle – A formidable bird of prey, it is noted for its striking appearance and ability to take down relatively large prey for its size.

Leopard Cat – Smaller than its big cat relatives, this spotted cat is highly adaptive, hunting a variety of small animals from birds to rodents.

Himalayan Wolf – Adapted to the cold, high-altitude environment, this wolf variant preys on domestic and wild ungulates, contributing to the natural selection of these populations.

Red Fox – Common across a variety of habitats, the red fox is versatile in its diet, eating small mammals, birds, and even fruits and insects.

Saker Falcon – Known for its incredible speed and agility, the saker falcon hunts birds and small mammals, making it a fierce predator of the skies.

These predators are integral to the park’s ecosystem, each playing a specific role in controlling prey populations and maintaining the health of their habitat.

Popular

Popular

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park is also a haven for a variety of non-predatory species, each contributing to the rich biodiversity of the region.  Here is a glimpse into some popular species:

Yunnan Snub-Nosed Monkey – This rare and endangered monkey is known for its striking blue face and shaggy fur, living in large, complex social groups in the forest.

Tibetan Macaque – Often seen in the lower forested areas, this large macaque is social and expressive, with a robust build and a preference for fruits and seeds.

Sambar Deer – A large deer species with a rugged build and thick coat, adapted to the cooler climates of higher altitudes; it feeds on a variety of vegetation.

Musk Deer – Known for producing valuable musk, this small and elusive deer has fang-like tusks and is primarily nocturnal, feeding on grasses and moss.

Blue Sheep – Neither completely blue nor truly sheep, these gregarious creatures are excellent climbers, adapted to the steep, rocky terrain of the mountain.

Yunnan Golden Hair Monkey – Also known as the black snub-nosed monkey, it is adapted to life in cold environments, with thick fur and a diet rich in lichens.

Goral – A nimble and sure-footed goat-antelope that navigates the rocky ridges, feeding on a variety of mountain vegetation.

Lady Amherst’s Pheasant – Named after the wife of a British governor, this bird is notable for its vibrant colors and long, ornate tail feathers.

Highland Barbel – A species of fish adapted to the cold, clear streams running through the park, playing a crucial role in the aquatic food web.

Giant Nuthatch – The largest of the nuthatch family, this bird is found in the pine forests of the park, feeding on insects and seeds.

These non-predatory species of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park are essential for maintaining the ecological balance and enhancing the natural beauty of the area, making the park a truly special place for wildlife observation and conservation.

Blue Moon Valley Waterfall

Blue Moon Valley Waterfall

Blue Moon Valley Waterfall is not only one of the most accessible but also one of the most stunning waterfalls in Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park. This waterfall cascades beautifully through Blue Moon Valley, named for the striking blue color of its water, which is said to resemble the blue of the moon.

The crystal-clear waters flow from the melting glaciers of the mountain, creating a serene and picturesque scene perfect for photography and peaceful reflection. The surrounding landscape, marked by lush greenery and dramatic mountain backdrops, adds to the area’s breathtaking allure.

White Water River Waterfalls

White Water River Waterfalls

White Water River Waterfalls are a series of cascades running through the White Water River, deriving their name from the rapid, milky flow of the water, which is rich in mineral content from the mountain.

These falls are particularly striking during the warmer months when the increased meltwater volume enhances their majesty. The river is flanked by a walking path that offers visitors multiple vantage points for viewing and enjoying the natural beauty of the cascading waters set against dense forests.

Baishui Tableland Waterfall

Baishui Tableland Waterfall

Baishui Tableland Waterfall is a remarkable and unique geological wonder within the park. The waterfall is part of the Baishui Tableland, a vast area of white marble and limestone that creates a striking contrast with the surrounding lush greenery.

The water flows smoothly over the flat, terraced rock formations, creating a visually stunning effect that resembles a giant white water staircase.

This natural formation is not only a beautiful sight but also an excellent example of the park’s diverse geological features, making it a popular spot for both scientists and tourists.

Things To Do

Engaging Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Cable Car Ride to Glacier Park

One of the most spectacular ways to experience Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is by taking a cable car ride to Glacier Park. The ride offers breathtaking views of the mountain’s rugged terrain and the sprawling landscapes below.

At over 4,500 meters, the cable car reaches one of the park’s highest accessible points, providing visitors with a near aerial view of the glacial formations and stunning panoramic vistas. It’s a must-do for anyone wanting to appreciate the mountain’s grandeur without the strenuous hike.

Hiking

Hiking through Ganhaizi Meadow presents an opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The meadow serves as a starting point for many trails and offers picturesque views of the mountain against lush grasslands.

Hikers can enjoy a relatively easy walk or choose more challenging trails that ascend into the mountain, exploring diverse flora and encountering wildlife along the way.  There are many different trails and walkways to explore this majestic region.

Cable Car Ride to Glacier Park

One of the most spectacular ways to experience Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is by taking a cable car ride to Glacier Park. The ride offers breathtaking views of the mountain’s rugged terrain and the sprawling landscapes below.

At over 4,500 meters, the cable car reaches one of the park’s highest accessible points, providing visitors with a near aerial view of the glacial formations and stunning panoramic vistas. It’s a must-do for anyone wanting to appreciate the mountain’s grandeur without the strenuous hike.

Hiking

Hiking through Ganhaizi Meadow presents an opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The meadow serves as a starting point for many trails and offers picturesque views of the mountain against lush grasslands.

Hikers can enjoy a relatively easy walk or choose more challenging trails that ascend into the mountain, exploring diverse flora and encountering wildlife along the way.  There are many different trails and walkways to explore this majestic region.

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park Trails

There are hikes along the Tiger Leaping Gorge and up parts of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.  Reaching the summit of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain involves technical climbing.  The majority of visitors take the cable car to the lower observation area and then hike up the stairs to the higher observation area.

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Tiger Leaping Gorge

The entire trail along the gorge is well-maintained and stretches a distance of 14 miles (22 km).  There are guest houses along the way to stop and rest, however, they are not heated.  Hikers who engage the trail will experience the magnitude of the canyon and gorge in full as well as micro-ecosystems and waterfalls.

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Ganhaizi Meadow to Glacier Park Cable Car

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: The trail itself is a short walk, but the cable car takes visitors up to 4,500 meters.

Description: Starting from Ganhaizi Meadow, visitors take a cable car ride up to the Glacier Park. The journey offers stunning aerial views of the mountain and ends near the glacier’s edge.

At the top, a boardwalk allows for easy exploration, offering close-up views of the glacier and the surrounding peaks. This is an accessible way to experience the high-altitude landscape without a strenuous hike.

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Yak Meadow Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies, with some paths only a few kilometers long and minimal elevation gain.

Description: Yak Meadow is named for the herds of yak that graze here. Trails through this area offer peaceful walks with panoramic views of the mountain and opportunities to see wildlife and wildflowers.

The area is known for its serene beauty and is a less crowded spot for those looking to enjoy the natural surroundings quietly.

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Blue Moon Valley

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: The walk around Blue Moon Valley is relatively flat, covering about 3 to 5 kilometers.

Description: Blue Moon Valley is famous for its stunning turquoise-colored lakes, fed by glacier meltwater.

The easy walk around the lakes provides ample opportunities to take in the breathtaking views of the water against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountain. Wooden walkways and paths make it accessible to most visitors.

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Baishui River Walk

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: The river walk is flat, extending about 2 kilometers along the river.

Description: This gentle walk follows the Baishui River as it flows from the glacier down the valley. Visitors can enjoy the crystal-clear waters and views of the mountain above.

Along the path are traditional Naxi culture totems and markers, offering insight into the local culture amidst the natural beauty of the park.

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Tiger Leaping Gorge Trek

Rating: Difficult

Distance and Elevation Gain: The full trek is about 22 kilometers with significant elevation changes.

Description: While technically not within the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park, the Tiger Leaping Gorge Trek is closely associated with the mountain and offers spectacular views of its peaks.

This challenging trek takes hikers through one of the deepest gorges in the world, with dramatic cliffs, rushing rivers, and remote villages. It’s a multi-day hike that requires preparation but rewards with unforgettable experiences and views.

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Ganhaizi Meadow to Glacier Park Cable Car

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: The trail itself is a short walk, but the cable car takes visitors up to 4,500 meters.

Description: Starting from Ganhaizi Meadow, visitors take a cable car ride up to the Glacier Park. The journey offers stunning aerial views of the mountain and ends near the glacier’s edge.

At the top, a boardwalk allows for easy exploration, offering close-up views of the glacier and the surrounding peaks. This is an accessible way to experience the high-altitude landscape without a strenuous hike.

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Yak Meadow Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies, with some paths only a few kilometers long and minimal elevation gain.

Description: Yak Meadow is named for the herds of yak that graze here. Trails through this area offer peaceful walks with panoramic views of the mountain and opportunities to see wildlife and wildflowers.

The area is known for its serene beauty and is a less crowded spot for those looking to enjoy the natural surroundings quietly.

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Blue Moon Valley

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: The walk around Blue Moon Valley is relatively flat, covering about 3 to 5 kilometers.

Description: Blue Moon Valley is famous for its stunning turquoise-colored lakes, fed by glacier meltwater.

The easy walk around the lakes provides ample opportunities to take in the breathtaking views of the water against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountain. Wooden walkways and paths make it accessible to most visitors.

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Baishui River Walk

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: The river walk is flat, extending about 2 kilometers along the river.

Description: This gentle walk follows the Baishui River as it flows from the glacier down the valley. Visitors can enjoy the crystal-clear waters and views of the mountain above.

Along the path are traditional Naxi culture totems and markers, offering insight into the local culture amidst the natural beauty of the park.

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Tiger Leaping Gorge Trek

Rating: Difficult

Distance and Elevation Gain: The full trek is about 22 kilometers with significant elevation changes.

Description: While technically not within the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain National Park, the Tiger Leaping Gorge Trek is closely associated with the mountain and offers spectacular views of its peaks.

This challenging trek takes hikers through one of the deepest gorges in the world, with dramatic cliffs, rushing rivers, and remote villages. It’s a multi-day hike that requires preparation but rewards with unforgettable experiences and views.

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