Zhangjiajie National Forest Park | (Official GANP Page)

About

Zhangjiajie National Park is located in the central-eastern area of China in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area which features multiple protected areas. The national park encompasses an area of 18.59 square miles (48.15 sq km).

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The larger Wulingyuan Scenic Area covers 153.5 square miles (397.5 sq km). The collective Wulingyuan area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is probably the most coveted part of the area.

The park is comprised of dense forests, deep ravines, deep canyons, unusual peaks, caves, and pillar-like rock formations blanketed throughout the park. These pillar rock formations are what the park is renowned for around the world.

The pillar rock formations are not typical limestone-eroded pillars. The pillar rock formations are comprised of quartz-sandstone and formed from physical erosion caused by the abundant rains.

The landscapes created by the mountains, pillar rock formations, dense forests, and clouds are the epitome of Chinese landscapes that inspire so many different types of artwork.

The Bailong Elevator and Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge are two record-holding features that help visitors experience the splendor of the national park.

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The landscapes created by the mountains and pillar-like rock formations are the highlight of the national park. The Bailong Elevator, affectionately known as “hundred dragons sky lift,” is the world’s tallest outdoor lift. It carries around 50 people at a time up 1,070 feet (326 m). It makes the journey less than 2 minutes.

The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge stretching across 1,410 feet (430 m) at a height of 980 feet (300 m) is the longest and highest pedestrian glass bridge in the world.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Trails

An astounding forest and mountain landscape with striking views almost every step of the way. Come explore the captivating terrain of Zhangjiajie.

Zhangjiajie Scenic Area Trail

This is a difficult trail that travels 8.8 miles (14.16 km) with an elevation change of 3,812 feet (1,161 m). This trail requires good physical conditioning; however, it is worth the endeavor with bountiful views of the stunning landscapes and rock formations.

Wulong Trail

This is a 3.7-mile (6.0 km) trail that ascends up steep steps with an elevation change of 2,313 feet (705 m). It is a difficult trail with views of the landscape and wildflowers.

Yellow Stone Village Trail

This 5.1-mile (8.2 km) one-way trek is considered a moderate effort. Some may rate it higher because it features an elevation change of 2,929 feet (892.7 m).

Golden Whip Trail

This 3.9-mile (6.27 km) trail takes hikers to Avatar Mountain. Rated as a moderate level trail, this is a great way for visitors to experience the landscapes, wildflowers, and the stunning Avatar Mountain.

Golden Whip Stream Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 7.5 kilometers one way, with minimal elevation gain.

Description: This scenic trail follows the meandering Golden Whip Stream, flanked by towering sandstone peaks and lush vegetation.

It’s known for its gentle path, making it suitable for hikers of all levels. Visitors will enjoy the serene beauty of the stream, the occasional sightings of wild monkeys, and the impressive views of formations like the Golden Whip Rock.

Huangshi Village Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 3.6 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of about 400 meters if taking the stairs, otherwise, a cable car is available.

Description: Huangshi Village offers one of the best panoramic views of Zhangjiajie’s quartz-sandstone pillars. Hikers can choose to ascend by a challenging stairway or take a cable car.

The top provides breathtaking views of the park’s iconic landscape, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Yuanjiajie Scenic Area Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies, but generally about 2 to 3 kilometers with some steep sections.

Description: Home to the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, Yuanjiajie is accessible by the Bailong Elevator or hiking trails.

This area features stunning natural bridges, towering peaks, and dense greenery, offering a surreal experience.

The terrain can be steep and uneven in places, but the ethereal views are well worth the effort.

Tianzi Mountain Trail

Rating: Moderate to Difficult

Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies based on route, up to 5 kilometers with significant elevation changes.

Description: Tianzi Mountain provides spectacular views of the karst formations, particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset.

The trails here can be steep and challenging but reward hikers with views of the “imperial brush” peaks and dense mists that envelop the landscape, creating a mystical atmosphere.

Ten-Mile Gallery Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 5 kilometers one way, with minimal elevation gain.

Description: This leisurely path is more like a flat walkway that takes visitors through a scenic valley adorned with natural and culturally significant rock formations, resembling a natural art gallery.

Highlights include formations named after animals and legendary figures, offering a relaxing hike with plenty of photo opportunities. It’s suitable for families and those looking for a less strenuous way to appreciate the park’s beauty.

Golden Whip Stream Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 7.5 kilometers one way, with minimal elevation gain.

Description: This scenic trail follows the meandering Golden Whip Stream, flanked by towering sandstone peaks and lush vegetation.

Huangshi Village Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 3.6 kilometers round trip, with an elevation gain of about 400 meters if taking the stairs, otherwise, a cable car is available.

Description: Huangshi Village offers one of the best panoramic views of Zhangjiajie’s quartz-sandstone pillars. Hikers can choose to ascend by a challenging stairway or take a cable car.

The top provides breathtaking views of the park’s iconic landscape, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Yuanjiajie Scenic Area Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies, but generally about 2 to 3 kilometers with some steep sections.

Description: Home to the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, Yuanjiajie is accessible by the Bailong Elevator or hiking trails.

This area features stunning natural bridges, towering peaks, and dense greenery, offering a surreal experience.

The terrain can be steep and uneven in places, but the ethereal views are well worth the effort.

Tianzi Mountain Trail

Rating: Moderate to Difficult

Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies based on route, up to 5 kilometers with significant elevation changes.

Description: Tianzi Mountain provides spectacular views of the karst formations, particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset.

The trails here can be steep and challenging but reward hikers with views of the “imperial brush” peaks and dense mists that envelop the landscape, creating a mystical atmosphere.

Ten-Mile Gallery Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 5 kilometers one way, with minimal elevation gain.

Sources

China Culture Tour, Wulinguyan, https://www.chinaculturetour.com/zhangjiajie/wulingyuan.htm, retrieved December 2019.
China Highlights, Wulingyuan Scenic Area, https://www.chinahighlights.com/zhangjiajie/attraction/wulingyuan-scenic-spot.htm, retrieved December 2019.
China Highlights, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, https://www.chinahighlights.com/zhangjiajie/attraction/zhangjiajie-national-forest-park.htm, retrieved December 2019.
Pilot Guides, Wulingyuan National Park, https://www.pilotguides.com/articles/wulingyuan-national-park/, retrieved December 2019.
Travel China, Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area, https://www.travelchinaguide.com/attraction/hunan/zhangjiajie/wulingyuan.htm, retrieved December 2019.
UNESCO, Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area, https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/640/, retrieved December 2019.