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Explore the stunning Heilong Gorge by hiking along the scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the cliffs, rivers, and lush forest. Visit the iconic waterfalls and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Photography enthusiasts will love the panoramic vistas available at several viewpoints along the trails.
Located in Shangnan County, Shangluo City, Shaanxi Province, Heilong Gorge stretches 7 kilometers, starting at Lingguan Temple and ending at Shuangxi Waterfall. It is the most typical section of Jinsi Gorge, integrating canyons, river valleys, wide valleys, narrow valleys, and narrow gorges. It is known as "China's Most Beautiful Grand Canyon." The saying "If you come to Jinsi Gorge and don't visit Heilong Gorge, your trip is in vain" perfectly captures this part of the gorge.
Black Dragon Gorge twists and turns, with water surging through rocky troughs and swirling in pools. Reflected by sunlight, it glitters like golden beads. It's both incredibly dangerous and incredibly beautiful. Black Dragon Pond boasts numerous bays, each with its own unique number: ninety-nine bends and ninety-nine pools.
Besides its breathtaking scenery, Heilong Gorge also boasts excellent air quality! The bay, the pool, and the lush greenery all around it form a vast natural oxygen bar. Taking a deep breath of the fresh air is like taking care of your lungs after years of breathing in the steel forest!
The warm temperate semi-humid monsoon climate features four distinct seasons, with rain and heat occurring in the same season, and distinct dry and wet seasons in the summer and winter. Avoid the cold winter and travel in spring, summer, and autumn.
The Black Dragon Gorge is narrow and long, with water surging through the stone troughs and swirling in the stone pools. Refraction of the sun makes it sparkle like golden beads. It is truly extremely dangerous and beautiful.
It is recommended to play for about 30 minutes.
Included in the ticket for the Golden Canyon, RMB 95 per person
07:30-16:30
Heilong Gorge is a natural wonder known for its dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity. The gorge is an important ecological site, providing a habitat for various plant and animal species. The area is also significant for its geological formations, having been shaped by centuries of natural processes.
Heilong Gorge is located in Shaanxi Province, China. It can be accessed from Xi'an by taxi or private car, with the journey taking about 2-3 hours. Public transport options are available, but they may require transfers and additional travel time. Walking is not a feasible option for reaching the gorge itself.
Heilong Gorge is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are most vibrant. Summer can be hot, while winter may offer a quieter experience but with colder temperatures.
The entrance fee is around 50-70 CNY, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on the day of your visit, and in some cases, online booking options are available through local travel websites during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during busy seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid long lines. A few days in advance is typically sufficient for most visitors.
A visit to Heilong Gorge typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you spend hiking and taking photographs. If you want to explore more remote areas or relax by the river, it may take up to 5 hours.
The must-see highlights include the Gorge's main waterfall, the surrounding forest trails, and several lookout points that offer panoramic views of the gorge. The rock formations along the riverbanks are also a notable feature.
Guided tours are available, particularly in Mandarin. Audio guides may be provided in Mandarin as well, but English-speaking guides and audio guides may be limited.
The best viewpoints are along the main hiking trail, particularly near the waterfalls and cliffside overlooks. These spots provide spectacular views of the river and surrounding mountains, making them ideal for photography.
A recommended route starts with visiting the main waterfall, followed by a hike along the river to explore the surrounding cliffs and rock formations. Stop at the designated viewpoints for photo opportunities and enjoy the natural surroundings before continuing along the trail.
Night visits are not available at Heilong Gorge. The attraction is primarily a daytime destination, where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the gorge during daylight hours. Special light shows or night tours are not currently offered.
Heilong Gorge can be crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn). To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon.
The gorge has basic amenities such as toilets and rest areas along the trail. There are small shops near the entrance that sell snacks, water, and souvenirs. It is advisable to bring your own water and food if you plan to hike for extended periods.
While the main areas of Heilong Gorge are accessible to elderly and children, some parts of the hiking trails may be challenging, particularly for those with mobility issues. Visitors with disabilities may face difficulty in reaching the more remote areas of the gorge.
Cash is still commonly used, but mobile payment systems like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Cards may also be used at some places, but it's best to have a mobile payment app for convenience.
There are local restaurants and cafes nearby that serve traditional Shaanxi dishes, such as noodles and dumplings. The food options inside the park are limited, so it's a good idea to eat before visiting or bring your own snacks.
Vegetarian food options are available at local restaurants, and there may be halal food options in nearby towns, given the region's Muslim population.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels in the nearby towns and cities, such as Baoji. These range from budget options to mid-range accommodations. For those looking for a more nature-centric experience, there are also options for staying in nearby eco-lodges.
Other nearby attractions include the Famen Temple, Qianling Mausoleum, and the scenic Mount Taibai. These can be easily visited in a day trip from Heilong Gorge.
Yes, souvenir shops are available at the entrance and near key viewpoints. Typical souvenirs include local handicrafts, traditional teas, dried fruits, and small figurines representing the area's natural beauty.
After visiting Heilong Gorge, the best transportation options are taxis or private cars. Public buses are available but may require multiple transfers. The nearby city of Baoji has a train station with connections to major cities in China.
