A complete guide to river tracing around Hangzhou: unlock this summer's cool outdoor experiences
Preface
In the hot summer, under the scorching sun, in addition to air conditioning, watermelon, mobile phone and fat house water, you also need a water feast in your spare time.
If you want to escape the heat of the city, dive into a pool of water without hesitation, and have a hearty water battle, just save this river tracing guide.
Summer hit
1. Lin'an Butterfly Valley (Advanced Route/Good Water Quality/Interesting/Team Interaction/No Supplies)
Butterfly Valley is located in Yuqian Town. On its left is Laoan Peak of Tianmu Mountain, and in its center is Longwang Mountain, one of the Seven Peaks of Jiangnan. The unique natural environment has nurtured a colorful landscape and diverse species.
Named after the colorful butterflies that flutter through the valley, the canyon is dozens of miles deep and over ten meters wide, with the highest peak nearly a thousand meters from the valley floor. The canyon is filled with boulders, gurgling water, and clear, pristine waters. The experience is incredibly challenging, requiring both hands and feet, as well as the ability to pull up and down. Compared to Jingkongli Canyon, the challenge is slightly higher, making it suitable for experienced hikers.
Tips:
Driving time: about 1.5 hours
River tracing: about 5 kilometers, usually about 4 hours
Notes:
Some sections require ropes to support and pull up, suitable for group travel
The canyon is extremely slippery, please pay attention to safety and it is not recommended to drive there by yourself
2. Shangyu Snow Flower Pond (Good Water Quality/Suitable for All Ages/Suitable for Water Fights/No Supplies)
Located in Hongxi Village, Chenxi Township, Shangyu District, in the heart of Siming Mountain, Snow Flower Pond is named for its snow-white waters. Stepping into the waters is a refreshing experience. Along the way, you'll encounter picturesque peaks and rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and numerous swimming holes. Hiking upstream amidst this pristine mountain scenery allows you to relax and embrace nature. An ancient trail runs alongside the stream within the canyon, which you can follow on your return journey down the mountain.
Tips:
Driving time: about 3 hours
River tracing: about 6 kilometers of return route, usually takes about 4 hours, with a bluestone road next to it
Notes:
Generally, buses stop at Xunxi Village. Cars can continue to drive forward to the parking lot at the plank road. There are toilets and you can go down to the stream at the wooden plank road.
There is a bluestone staircase next to the canyon. It is also the way back. Because there is a lot of moss in the bamboo forest and the shoes are slippery, be careful not to slip when going down the mountain and walk slowly.
Going up the parking lot, there are farmhouses and local aunties selling water, but there are not many choices.
3. Anji Longwang Mountain (Good Water Quality/Pool Jumping/Barbecue/Rafting)
Anji Longwangshan Canyon is a natural canyon upstream of Longwangshan Rafting. It is the source of the Huangpu River, with clear blue water and deep pools. The canyon has picturesque scenery and an average annual temperature of 18℃. It is an excellent place for summer vacation and water fun in northern Zhejiang. There are pools all along the way, the water quality is excellent, and there is also a natural swimming pool diving platform.
Tips:
Driving time: about 2.5 hours
River tracing: about 4 kilometers, 3-4 hours
Notes:
You need to warm up thoroughly before entering the water to make your body warm enough for entering the water.
Prevent sprains during river tracing and be careful on slippery rocks
When jumping into the pond, pay attention to whether there is anyone below you, and you need someone to remind you.
Introduction to River Tracing
1. Anji Jingkongli Grand Canyon (short drive/easy/no supplies)
Located at the junction of Anji, Yuhang, and Lin'an counties, this area boasts high mountains, vast rivers, deep greenery, and fresh air. The canyon cascades for dozens of miles, with streams cascading down from peaks over 1,000 meters above sea level. It is one of the most scenic and pristine mountain valleys around Hangzhou.
Because many places in the canyon require the use of hands and feet, pulling up and supporting down, it requires great teamwork and mutual help, and is also named "Team Heart".
Tips:
Driving time: about 2 hours
River tracing: about 6 kilometers, usually about 4 hours
Notes:
There are many farmhouses at the foot of the mountain where you can eat. If you drive, you can park your car at the farmhouse and wash and change clothes at the farmhouse after returning from the river tracing.
There are many places that require climbing and need to support each other, especially children
The canyon is slippery, don't jump on the rocks
2. Lin'an Dulin River Tracing (Short Drive/Good Water Quality/Fewer Crowds and Beautiful Scenery)
Our destination is at the foot of Qingliang Peak. After getting off the bus and taking a short hike, we arrived at the entrance of this river tracing. We walked along the river beach and soon we could see the clear shallow canyon stream. The Qingliang river tracing journey began.
Led by our guide, we walked along the creek, playing and having water fights from time to time. There are places to get on and off the water along the creek, and if you get tired of playing, you can walk on land!
We arrived at the end of our creek trek just in time. There were plenty of shade trees and a large pool of water, with smooth, rounded pebbles underwater. We rested and had a meal there, sitting in the cool stream, enjoying the cool shade of the trees. After lunch and a short break, we walked and played, slowly returning to our starting point that morning. We could swim and dive along the way, which was a lot of fun!
3. Anji Sanbushi (Entry-Level Route/Highly Cost-Effective/Deep Clear Water Pools Suitable for Swimming/Rafting/Farmhouse Fun)
The bamboo forest is quiet, the green lake is everywhere, the scenery is beautiful, the intensity is just right, it is cool and relaxing. There is a highway next to the canyon, so newlyweds and parents and children can participate without worry.
The canyon boasts a constant stream year-round, crystal clear, with fish swimming leisurely in the spring water. Huge rocks are stacked in disorder, forming one pool after another. The canyon is lined with lush bamboo and steep cliffs, making it an ideal place for wading. Deep stream rafting is also available, offering both thrilling and refreshing experiences.
Tips:
Driving time: about 2 hours
River tracing: 3 hours of river tracing, the water is clear, and the rafting is about 1.5 hours. You can shower and change clothes.
Notes:
As the name suggests, there are many large stones in the Three Steps Stone, which requires both hands and feet.
There are many deep pools where you can swim, and there is one where you can jump into the pool. It is recommended to wear a life jacket throughout the whole process.
There is a farmer's house in the middle where you can eat and there is a toilet.
Deep Creek Rafting has a large flow of people, so you may need to queue up. You can also choose to raft in Tianmu Mountain, Anji nearby.
When rafting, be careful not to stick your hands or head out of the kayak or outside of the kayak, as this may cause collisions and injuries.
4. Lin'an Longmen Secret Realm (Gourmet Cooking/Parent-Child Leisure)
The Longmen Secret Land's natural stream, with its wide, gently undulating channel and easy access to both the water and the shallows, is a perfect summer trekking adventure. The water is crystal clear, revealing countless small, willow-shaped fish with clear backs, white bellies, and white bellies, nibbling on the rocky cliffs, their movements creating a silvery glint. China-TravelNote provides groups of ten with stoves and gas canisters. Each participant prepares their own instant noodles, ham, and other delicacies, and the tour leader will teach everyone how to cook a delicious meal outdoors.
Tips:
Driving time: about 2 hours
Creek Tracing: It takes 3-4 hours to hike 3 kilometers upstream. You can take a detour through the deep pool, which is not a must-go route.
Notes:
The team leader will teach you how to use the stove gas cylinder. Please pay attention to forest fire prevention when using it yourself.
You can prepare some food yourself. It's hot, so be careful not to spoil it.
You cannot take the subway with a gas canister
5. Lin'an Tiaoyutan (deep pool swimming/family leisure/farmhouse fun)
Tiaoyu Pond, located in the backyard of the farmhouse, is a deep, clear pond, with a crystal-clear stream flowing smoothly between the rocky beaches. You can hike upstream along the pond, a relatively easy hike down the stream, catching fish and shrimp, or simply enjoy some water play and diving in the pond, a truly enjoyable experience for all ages.
6. Hangzhou Nine Creeks and Eighteen Streams (Parent-Child Leisure/Longjing Tea)
The scenery of the Nine Creeks and Eighteen Streams is naturally natural, lacking any artificiality. The streams meander along the mountain, sometimes left and sometimes right. Six of these streams flow through the mountain path, marked by stone steps. Visitors can wade through the streams or walk across them on the rocks, each offering its own unique charm. The immersive experience is truly refreshing, giving the impression of wandering within a painting. The waters of the Nine Creeks originate from Yangmeiling and merge along the way with the Qingwan, Hongfa, Fangjia, Foshi, Baizhang, Tangjia, Xiaokang, Yunqi, and Zhutou streams. This gives them the name Nine Creeks, as they flow through verdant mountains and valleys, joining countless smaller streams.
Tips:
The transportation is convenient. You can choose to enter from Longjing Village or from Jiuxi Bus Station on Zhijiang Road in the downtown area of Hangzhou.
Children must be supervised by adults when playing, and be careful not to slip
7. Daming Mountain Wild Tracking (Entry-level route/Good water quality/Lots of shade trees/Suitable for all ages/Highly interesting/High cost-effective/No supplies)
Lin'an's Daming Mountain, renowned for its skiing in winter, is back in style in summer! Summer river tracing at Daming Mountain begins with a truly ceremonial ice bucket challenge—no one wants to leave without a clean slate!
Crossing the rolling rocks of the mountain stream and climbing up the canyon, just when I was thirsty and sweating profusely, the splashing water of the blue lake along the way beckoned me, and I couldn't hold back the water gun in my pocket...
There are levels like Sheep in the Tiger's Mouth, Journey to the End of the World, Making Dumplings, and Bubble War. Helmets, life jackets, knee pads, elbow pads, and waterproof backpacks are all available. Under the waterfall, there are internet-famous inflatable cushions, swimming rings, crystal boats, and iced watermelons waiting for you to taste.
Tips:
Driving time: about 2 hours
River tracing: mainly for water play, estimated to be about 2.5-3 hours
Notes:
The scenic area is fully equipped and suitable for newcomers and outdoor enthusiasts. The water quality is very good.
There is no food at the end, so you need to bring your own food
After the river tracing, there is enough time to walk along the plank road to visit the scenic area and climb the mountain.
Advanced River Tracing
1. Ningbo Charming Valley (River Tracing + Hiking/Deep Pool Waterfall/No Supplies)
Charming Valley is located in Longguan Township, Yinjiang Town, Yinzhou District. Entering the mountains from Lipailou Reservoir, you follow the stream up to Jiaokeng. Hiking up the stream from Jiaokeng leads to Guanding Lake. Due to its excellent experience, Jiaokeng has become a top hiker route in Ningbo in recent years, and local hikers have nicknamed it "Charming Valley" for its beautiful scenery.
This route has beautiful scenery and moderate intensity. It is a perfect combination of hiking and river tracing. It is a refined loop line that is refreshing to the end. The more tired you are, the more you will love it!
Tips:
Driving time: about 3 hours
River tracing: about 10 kilometers, hiking + river tracing, usually takes about 6 hours
2. Yuyao Black Dragon Pool (Good Water Quality/Deep Pool Swimming/No Supplies)
Heilongtan, nestled at the southern foot of Siming Mountain, boasts three waterfalls, each distinct and arranged along the mountain's slopes. Their secluded, tranquil, and tranquil nature attracts numerous visitors. Due to the dramatic drop in height, jagged rocks, and cascading waterfalls, each is more challenging to reach than the last. The path from the Second to the Third Pool is particularly steep, making it a rare and unvisited destination. Along the way, visitors will encounter shallow waterfalls, pristine forests, and the tranquility of birdsong. The canyon, brimming with boulder-lined cliffs and gurgling water, is filled with clear, crystalline waters, and teeming with small fish. Snorkeling, diving, and swimming are also possible, making this a scenic, medium-to-high-intensity outdoor trekking route.
Tips:
Driving time: about 2.5 hours
River tracing: round trip is about 7 kilometers, the river tracing section is 3 kilometers, and it usually takes about 4 hours
Notes:
Keep your personal valuables safe
Waterproof electronic products
3. Tiantai Baishui Creek (Rafting/River Tracing/Waterfalls/Farmhouse Fun)
The Baishui River Gorge is long, narrow, and steep, with connected pools and waterfalls. The streambed is relatively flat, with no distinct deep gullies. The stream is dotted with large, smooth, smooth rocks, jumbled stones, and mountain sand. The stream is characterized by its abundance of flat, soft, yellow sand, which is free of impurities. The valley is secluded, the water is picturesque, the pools are numerous, the mountains are clear, and the rocks are unique. The water is so clear that you can see fish swimming in the pools. The stream flows over the rocks and transforms into waterfalls. The waterfalls are visible year-round, and their shape changes with the flow of water and the seasons.
Tips:
Driving time: about 3 hours
River tracing: about 8 kilometers of loop, taking about 6 hours, with a total climb of about 400 meters
Notes:
River tracing requires climbing up and down the pool, which requires a certain amount of physical strength and river tracing experience
Prepare your river tracing equipment and pay attention to waterproof, sunscreen and mosquito repellent
It is recommended to travel in a group and have someone to take care of you.
4. Longtantou, Xianju (deep pool swimming/excellent water quality/farmhouse fun)
Nestled in the valley, Longtantou and Shangjing Village are shimmering with emerald green bamboo forests and flowing streams. Along the way, waterfalls cascade, mist shrouds the air, and waves roar. Here, we can snorkel, swim, and even try deep-pool diving to see where the depth charge lands. Our team leader brings a stovetop pot to brew coffee and ginger tea, bring your own fruit and snacks, and fully enjoy the lush greenery. We'll savor farmhouse dishes like free-range chicken, homemade bamboo shoots, and farm-raised vegetables—just thinking about it makes you savor!
Don't go river tracing
1. Dayewa Waterfall Rappelling (One-Day Rappelling Experience/No Supplies/Canyon Crossing)
Dayewa, also known as Dayewa and Tianlong Valley, is located at the western foot of Longwang Mountain, the highest peak in Ningguo County. Dayewa is the collective name for the canyon area and the source of the Maotan River. Geographically, it is located entirely within Yunti Township, a She ethnic minority township in Ningguo County, Anhui Province. This area forms the border between Anji, Ningguo County, and Lin'an. From this point, the Tianlong Ancient Trail leads south to Xitianmu in Lin'an, east to the main peak of Longwang Mountain, and north to Changtan Village in Zhangcun Town, a popular rafting destination in Anji. Nestled within pristine forests, the canyon's core stretches approximately 10 kilometers, with an average elevation ranging from 460 to 1,350 meters. The canyon boasts abundant water resources, dotted with deep pools and waterfalls. During high water season, the water from the waterfalls swirls through the deep pools, polishing the rocks into round shapes. Observing the crystal-clear pools, the round rocks nestled at the emerald green bottom resemble dinosaur eggs.
2. Yandang Mountain Jukeng'an Waterfall Rappelling (Technical Route/Deep Pool Waterfall/Excellent Water Quality/Thrilling Experience/Via Ferrata)
Jukeng'an Canyon is known for its narrowness, only about one meter at its narrowest point, and its steep, curving cliffs rising over a hundred meters high, resembling a battle between a dragon and a tiger. This route is renowned in the outdoor world for its short distance and dense rappelling points. The entire route is less than two kilometers long, with four to six rappelling points. From the start to the finish, there's virtually no hiking involved, with rappelling, water skiing, diving, and swimming all along the way. The winding route offers scenic views and is a perfect spot for summer escapes and water play. It's a well-known route for Wenzhou hikers, a beloved classic for seasoned hikers and a popular spot for many new hikers to experience rappelling.
3. Jiaolong Gorge Waterfall (Technical Route/Deep Pool Waterfall/Excellent Water Quality/Thrilling Experience)
Jiaolong Gorge (Granite Gorge) is a classic V-shaped canyon, 50 meters wide at the base and 50 meters wide at the top, with a depth of approximately 500 meters. Originally located 2-3 kilometers below the surface, the granite now rises 1.5 kilometers above the surface. This dramatic tectonic uplift has provided favorable conditions for river incision, shaping the canyon's current landscape over time. Begin your trek up Jiaolong Gorge, then journey to Jiaolong Cave and Danzi Lake. Then, enter the highlight of the outdoor trekking section, where you'll be greeted by towering volcanic formations, towering cliffs of bizarre rock formations, and cascading waterfalls. Escape the summer heat and experience the refreshing coolness of Zhejiang Green Valley. Wading through streams, traversing rocks, and scaling steep cliffs, you'll experience the thrill of the outdoors while enjoying the scenery along the way.
River tracing equipment
River trekking shoes
A must-have for river tracing. Do not use beach shoes, slippers, or hole shoes. Choose river tracing shoes that are non-slip, quick-drying, and have good drainage performance. They can be used for both hiking and wading, ensuring safety and comfort during the river tracing process. Remember to wear socks when tracing the river, and change them when you get ashore. Remember to clean the river tracing shoes on the same day after returning home and dry them in a cool place.
Leggings
Prevent your legs from being bumped, scratched or cut by weeds and rocks.
helmet
River tracing often involves traveling through canyons and climbing rocks. If possible, you can carry a lightweight rock climbing helmet or mountaineering helmet to protect your head.
clothing
Choose sweat-wicking and quick-drying long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and keep clean clothes as spares. Wash them on the same day after the river tracing.
River tracing package
Choose a waterproof river tracing bag that is suitable for the number of days you travel, test the waterproofness of the waterproof bag and mobile phone waterproof bag before use, and pay attention to damage during use.
life jacket
A must-have for river tracing. It is recommended to choose a life jacket with gaiters to prevent the life jacket from falling off the body when swimming or jumping into the pool.
Conclusion
Don't miss this summer's water battle. Get close to nature while paying attention to safety. When you are well prepared, choose the reliable China-TravelNote team, trust the reliable China-TravelNote tour leader, and travel with these funny, professional, or enthusiastic friends. You will be filled with laughter and happiness wherever you go.
