Northwest Family Trip｜Complete Guide to Exploring Chaka Salt Lake, the Mirror of the Sky with Kids

Chaka Salt Lake is a must-visit family spot on the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop! Known as the "Mirror of the Sky" in China, it was also listed by National Geographic as one of the 55 places to visit in a lifetime. Bring your kids to experience the lake’s dreamlike scenery—perfect for photos!

🌤 Weather Tips for Viewing the "Mirror of the Sky" with Kids

✅ Best in summer on sunny days: less precipitation, light wind, complete salt crystals, and super clear reflections

✅ Always choose cloudless sunny days with plenty of light, so the lake surface shines like a mirror

❌ On cloudy or overcast days, the lake surface looks dull and murky, greatly reducing the mirror effect

✅ Try to pick calm or light wind days; a still lake surface is key for perfect reflections

❌ Strong winds cause ripples on the water, ruining the mirror effect

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Suggested Family Itinerary

🌞 If the weather is good: take the small train directly to the last stop at the "Mirror of the Sky" area for photos, then explore outward slowly

🌥 If the weather is average but might clear up: start near the entrance with the salt sculptures and walk while waiting for the weather to improve

🚂 Small Train Station Guide

Chaka Salt Station: the world’s largest outdoor salt sculpture group, spectacular and impressive

Chaka Xia Station: beautiful lake sunset views in the evening

Chaka Wind Station: photo spots including the crystallized love viewing platform, Mirror of the Sky stones, swings, and more

Chaka Snow Station (key stop):

Water train like in Spirited Away

Old railway industrial relics

Various photo props like the Mirror of the Sky sign, hot air balloon, piano, etc.

Great spot to capture Gangshika Snow Mountain and the salt lake together

💡 Practical Tips for Family Trips

Tickets: 60 RMB in peak season, 30 RMB in off-season

Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 9:30 PM in peak season

Recommended visit time: 2-4 hours

Small train: 50 RMB one way (can get on and off midway), runs every 10-15 minutes

Electric cart: 5 RMB one way, but only covers 1 km so not necessary

Shoe cover rental: 10 RMB (50 RMB deposit), a must if the weather is good

Altitude: about 3059 meters, watch for altitude sickness in kids

👟 Should you rent shoe covers?

If the weather is good and you plan to step into the water for reflections, definitely rent! The shoe covers are thick and waterproof. If you only walk on the shore or the weather is bad, no need.

🚂 Is the small train recommended?

Highly recommended with kids! The stations are far apart, the salt ground is rough and hard to walk on, and the train saves energy by taking you directly to the best spots.

🧂 Free salt souvenirs available outside the park (with ticket package purchase over 108 RMB)

🚗 For self-driving, park in Zone E for closest access, parking fee 10 RMB

🏡 Accommodation recommended in Chaka Town for convenient dining and proximity to the park