
Ganshan National Forest Park, located at the junction of Henan, Shaanxi, and Shanxi provinces, is renowned for its breathtaking peaks, secluded valleys, picturesque forests, and captivating scenery. Rich in flora and fauna, the park offers a unique landscape that changes with each season. Five scenic areas have been established: a forest recreation area, a red leaf viewing area, a water recreation area, a butterfly valley, and a Ganshan cultural area.
The park has a wide variety of animal and plant resources, with a forest coverage rate of over 98%. The air is rich in negative oxygen ions, reaching 4,000 to 10,000 per cubic centimeter. There are more than 2,100 plant species and more than 110 animal species, including 8 national protected animals.
temperate monsoon climate;
The best time to visit is in autumn, when the mountains are covered with red leaves and the forests are dyed red.
Red leaf viewing area
Located around Tangyin Square, the area spans approximately 12 square kilometers. In autumn, the ravines stretching across dozens of square kilometers are ablaze with a vibrant riot of color, from deep red and light red to dark red and deep green. The vibrant colors create a magnificent and vibrant atmosphere. The main tree species that display red leaves include lacquer trees, cotinus coggygria, nandina domestica, chinaberry trees, and maple.
Butterfly Valley Scenic Area
Located 23 kilometers south of the main gate and approximately 2 kilometers long, this scenic spot is a dazzling display of vibrant colors, adorned with tens of millions of butterflies dancing here from early spring to late autumn. Experts have verified that there are as many as 156 butterfly species here, eight of which are world-rare. Among the prized species visitors can see are the Chinese Tiger Swallowtail and the Great Purple Admiral. The most common species include the Blue Swallowtail, the Silk Swallowtail, the Leopard Admiral, the White Admiral, the Snake-Eye, the Cabbage White, and the Fishing White.
Ganshan Ski Resort
Located in the water recreation area of the scenic area, it covers an area of 150,000 square meters. It has a 600-meter advanced slide, an 800-meter intermediate slide, a 400-meter beginner slide, a 6,000-square-meter training ground and a 3,000-square-meter snow play area. Snow activities such as snow saucers, snow bikes, and dog sleds are available. It is suitable for tourists of all ages and consumption levels to ski, enjoy the snow, and play in the snow.
It is recommended to spend half a day
20 yuan/person
8:00---18:00
Ganshan National Forest Park is a protected natural area in Sanmenxia, Henan, showcasing the region's rich forest ecosystems, biodiversity, and scenic landscapes. It serves both recreational and ecological conservation purposes.
Located in Sanmenxia, Henan Province. Accessible via taxi or private car from the city center. Local buses may reach nearby entrances, and walking is recommended to explore the trails inside the park.
Open daily from 7:00 to 18:00. Best visiting periods are spring and autumn for pleasant weather and vibrant foliage.
Tickets usually cost around 50 RMB per person. They can be purchased at the park entrance or through official tourism websites and local travel apps.
Advance booking is recommended during weekends, holidays, or peak tourist seasons, ideally 1–2 days prior.
About 4–6 hours, depending on the trails taken and sightseeing stops.
Guided tours are usually available in Chinese; English-speaking guides may be arranged in advance.
Entrance → Main forest trail → Waterfalls and streams → Observation decks → Picnic/rest areas → Exit.
Night visits and light shows are not generally available; daytime visits are recommended.
Weekdays are less crowded. Holidays and weekends may see more visitors.
Facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, water fountains, and small food stalls near the entrance or main trailheads.
Some trails are steep or uneven. Elderly and disabled visitors should exercise caution; children should be supervised on hiking paths.
Tickets and shops generally accept mobile payments and cards, though small vendors may prefer cash.
Several local restaurants and small cafes are located near the park entrance, serving regional cuisine and snacks.
Vegetarian options are commonly available; vegan or halal options may be limited.
Hotels and guesthouses are available in Sanmenxia city and near the park entrance, suitable for overnight stays.
Souvenir shops sell local crafts, postcards, and small traditional items representing Henan culture.
Taxis, ride-hailing services, and local buses connect to Sanmenxia city, nearby attractions, or train and bus stations.