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Laolike Lake is located in the northwest of Zengfeng Mountain in Helong, at the junction of Helong City and Antu County. It has an altitude of 1,470 meters and an area of more than 30 hectares. It is characterized by alpine wetlands and is rarely visited by people.
Laolike Lake is a seasonal alpine lake. It forms a lake during the flood season and becomes a swamp during the dry season. Due to the altitude and climate factors, Laolike Lake mostly appears in the form of an alpine swamp wetland, dominated by lush Ula grass.
On the towering piers at the edge of the wetland, clusters of precious blueberries, laden with red berries, grow. Old Rick Lake is a flat lake nestled on a mountaintop. If you weren't in this flat, expansive wetland, it's hard to imagine the boundless wonders of nature.
Because the surrounding areas are higher than the wetland and are covered with dense, dark green primeval forests, no mountains can be seen outside the wetland. In addition, it is rarely visited by people and there are many animal traces, making it feel very mysterious.
Best time to travel in winter
Recommended play time: 3-4 hours
128 yuan/person
Laolike Lake is a seasonal scenic spot. In winter, the scenic spot usually starts operating around November 20th and closes at the end of March of the following year.
7:00-15:30
Old Rick Lake is known for its natural beauty and cultural significance in Jilin. It has long been a tranquil retreat for locals and visitors, offering a glimpse of the region's traditional rural life and diverse ecosystems.
Old Rick Lake is located in Jilin, China. The best way to reach it is by taxi or private car from the city center, which takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Public buses are also available but may be less frequent.
The lake is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the scenery is particularly beautiful. The lake is also a great spot for birdwatching during the migration seasons (spring and fall).
The entrance fee is generally around 50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through local travel agencies and platforms online.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, though it is recommended during peak seasons (especially holidays) to avoid waiting in long lines.
A visit to Old Rick Lake typically takes 2-3 hours. If you plan to enjoy the boat tour or engage in activities like fishing or hiking, consider spending half a day there.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available with prior notice, but it's better to check ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Good photography spots include the lake's edge at sunrise or sunset, where the light reflects off the water, and the higher vantage points along the walking trails for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Start with a leisurely boat tour on the lake, followed by a walk around the scenic trails. Enjoy a picnic or relax by the water before heading to the birdwatching areas or exploring more remote spots along the lake's perimeter.
Currently, there are no specific night visits or light shows at Old Rick Lake. However, some guided tours may offer sunset or early evening outings to enjoy the changing light on the lake.
It is less crowded on weekdays outside of the summer holidays. The lake tends to be busier on weekends and during the spring and autumn months, especially during the bird migration periods.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are also small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs, but it's a good idea to bring your own water and snacks if you plan to stay for a while.
The main areas of the lake are accessible to elderly and children, though some of the walking trails may be more challenging. There may not be many specialized facilities for disabled visitors, but the lakeside areas are relatively flat and easy to navigate.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Some areas may still prefer cash, especially in smaller shops, but credit cards are rarely accepted.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some local restaurants, though options may be limited. Halal food may be harder to find, but larger towns nearby may offer more variety.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, including handmade jewelry, pottery, and embroidered items. Locally made fish products from the lake are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting Old Rick Lake, the best transportation options include taking a taxi or private car back to Jilin city or to nearby tourist attractions. Public buses are also available but may be slower and less convenient.
