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Climbing Huashan's North Peak, turning south, passing the Ear-Crossing Cliff and ascending the Heavenly Ladder, a long ridge emerges before your eyes. Its vast, dark ridge reaches straight up into the sky, resembling a soaring dragon, hence the name "Canglong Ridge." The steps on this ridge are only a little over two feet wide, flanked by deep ravines and steep slopes as if cut by a knife or an axe. The ridge's elevation difference is approximately 500 meters, with a slope exceeding 45 degrees. From here, the distant views of lush pines and white clouds, accompanied by the roaring of the wind, are breathtaking and dizzying.
If you climb the mountain at night and look at Canglong Ridge from afar, you will see countless lights arranged in a straight line in the distance, slanting towards the sky and slowly moving upwards. These are tourists climbing the ridge with flashlights or headlamps, and it looks like climbing to the sky.
During the Ming and Qing dynasties, as the imperial court increased its frequency of offering sacrifices to the Huashan deity, Canglong Ridge gained 250 stone steps. This led to a popular story about Bi Yuan, the Shaanxi governor during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, carving the ridge. Legend has it that when Bi Yuan ordered the stonemasons to carve the ridge, a bloody rain fell in Chang'an for three days. It turned out that Canglong Ridge was once a living dragon, killed by Bi Yuan's chiseling. It was said that from then on, Huashan's dragon vein was severed, and no great figures like Yang Zhen or Yang Jian would ever emerge. To reduce congestion during peak tourist season, a climbing path was excavated in the spring of 1998 at Feiyu Ridge, east of Canglong Ridge, to ensure safe access for visitors.
The warm temperate continental monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
Canglong Ridge is the only way to reach Huashan West Peak. You can take the North Peak Cableway to the end point. After getting off, walk about 50 meters to the right, pass the Ear-Crossing Cliff and Woniu Stone to reach Dulong Temple, where you can directly see the entire Longling Ridge. Canglong Ridge is over 100 meters long and less than one meter wide. From a geographical point of view, it is a ridge, but there are smooth cliffs on both sides. Falling down is sure to kill you. And since this ridge is the only way to the other side, walking on it is indeed a bit scary.
It is recommended to play for about 4 hours.
Included in the Huashan Scenic Area and valid for Huashan Scenic Area tickets.
Open all day
Canglong Ridge is a natural landmark in Huayin, Shaanxi, known for its unique geological formations and scenic beauty. It is part of the Qinling mountain range and offers important ecological and recreational value to the region.
The ridge is located near Huayin city in Shaanxi Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or private car. Local buses may drop nearby, and some hiking access points require a short walk from the nearest road or parking area.
Open year-round, typically from early morning to late afternoon (around 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM). Spring and autumn offer the best weather and foliage for hiking and photography.
Entrance fees are moderate, usually purchased at the main gate. Online booking may be available via official tourist platforms, but many visitors buy tickets on-site.
Advance booking is recommended during weekends and holidays. A few days in advance is generally sufficient.
Exploring the ridge fully takes 3–5 hours depending on hiking pace and stops for photography or rest.
Guided eco-tours may be available in Chinese. Audio guides are generally not provided.
Night visits and light shows are generally not offered; the ridge is mainly a daytime hiking and sightseeing destination. Special guided tours may occasionally be arranged.
Weekends and public holidays attract more visitors. Weekdays are less crowded, especially early mornings.
Trails vary in difficulty; some sections may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can hike with supervision. Select shorter or flatter trails for accessibility.
Cash is commonly accepted for entrance fees and small purchases. Mobile payment may be available at main ticket counters.
Restaurants and local eateries are available in Huayin city near the entrance. Some small cafes or snack vendors may be found near parking or visitor areas.
Vegetarian options are usually available in local restaurants; vegan or halal options may require prior inquiry.
Several hotels and guesthouses are located in Huayin city within 10–15 minutes of the ridge entrance, ranging from budget to mid-range.
Souvenir shops near the entrance sell small local crafts, postcards, and hiking memorabilia.
