
Pingshan Gorge, also known as Dodge Gorge, is located in Pingshan Village, Rongmei Town, Hefeng County, Enshi City. It's home to the centuries-old natural moat of the Rongmei Tusi Mansion. The gorge, over a hundred feet deep and less than six or seven feet wide, stretches 18 kilometers. Once known as the "Semporna of China," its crystal-clear waters, like emerald green, are breathtakingly beautiful. Rafting on the river creates the illusion of floating in mid-air, as if you're on a boat sailing through the air. A visit to Pingshan Gorge is a must-see in Enshi. Join China-TravelNote for a leisurely tour or hike to this popular spot.
Summer: Canyon Boat Rides Are Perfect
Pingshan Gorge is approximately 10 kilometers east of Hefeng County. Successive Tusi kings built their mansions there, and many ruins of these mansions still remain. Pingshan, surrounded by cliffs, juts out over the canyon's waters. Looking up, one is struck by towering cliffs and surrounded by flowing streams.
Peak season (March 27-November 30): 170 yuan
Off-season (December 1st - March 26th): 130 yuan
8:00-18:00
Pingshan Canyon is known for its striking karst landscapes and deep gorges. It is a natural geological site of scenic and ecological significance in Enshi, Hubei, and attracts nature lovers and geologists alike.
Pingshan Canyon is located in Enshi Prefecture, Hubei Province. Visitors can reach it by bus or taxi from Enshi city center. Hiking and walking trails connect the main scenic points inside the canyon.
The canyon is generally open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for visiting due to pleasant weather and scenic views.
The entrance fee is approximately 80–120 CNY depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance ticket office.
Booking in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons, usually 1–3 days ahead.
A full day is recommended to explore the main canyon trails and scenic viewpoints completely.
Guided tours are mostly available in Chinese; limited English-language guides may be arranged through private operators.
Start from the main entrance, follow the marked canyon trail to key viewpoints and waterfalls, explore caves along the path, and return via a loop trail for a complete experience.
Night visits and light shows are generally not available; daytime visits are recommended.
Weekdays and non-holiday periods are less crowded. National holidays and weekends can be busy.
Public toilets, rest areas, small snack stalls, and souvenir shops are available near main viewpoints and trailheads.
Some steep and rugged trails may be challenging; elderly and disabled visitors should take caution. Children should be supervised along the trails.
Mobile payments and credit cards are generally accepted; carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors.
Local restaurants offering Hubei cuisine are available near the canyon entrance, along with small cafes and snack stalls at scenic areas.
Vegetarian options are usually available; vegan or halal options are limited and may require prior inquiry.
Accommodations range from guesthouses to mid-range hotels in Enshi city and nearby villages close to Pingshan Canyon.
Souvenir shops sell local crafts, postcards, and specialty products from Hubei, including handmade items and small mementos of the canyon.
Buses and taxis connect the canyon to Enshi city center and nearby attractions. Private cars or ride-hailing apps are convenient for flexible travel to other scenic areas.