Stunning Visual Impact! Huanglong After Snowfall at Five-Color Pond, Blue Ice and White Snow Are Amazing

🏔️In winter, Huanglong Scenic Area is covered with ice and snow, where colorful ponds and white snow intertwine, resembling a fairy tale world. Here is a detailed guide based on the latest information to help you plan your trip efficiently:
Best Time: Late October to early November (early snow period, moderate snow that does not affect walking on the boardwalk). After December, it enters the off-season with fewer tourists but lower temperatures.
Opening Hours: In November, peak season hours (8:00 AM - 6:00 PM); from December 16, off-season hours (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM). It is recommended to enter before 8 AM to avoid peak crowds.
❄️Ticket Policy:
November: Peak season full ticket 170 RMB, half price for students and seniors aged 60-64, free for those over 65 (advance reservation required on "Aba Tourism Ticketing").
After December: Off-season full ticket 60 RMB, cable car ticket 120 RMB (cable car stops operating after December 16, hiking required).
Altitude and Altitude Sickness: The main peak is 3,576 meters above sea level. It is recommended to take Rhodiola in advance. Oxygen bottles (10-15 RMB each) are available in the scenic area. Avoid strenuous exercise.
🧊Must-Visit Highlights:
Five-Color Pond: After snowfall, the pond surface is a mix of blue and white, with clearly layered travertine terraces. It is recommended to use polarized sunglasses to enhance color saturation.
Munigou Zhaga Waterfall: Water flow decreases in winter but the ice formations are spectacular. You can closely observe the ice crystal structures along the boardwalk.
Xuebaoding Viewing Platform: On clear days, you can see the main snow-capped peak in the distance. After the first snow, the clouds are thin, increasing the chance to capture “snow mountain + colorful pond” in one frame.
💧Essential Items:
Warm Layers: Down jacket, fleece-lined softshell jacket, waterproof gloves, knit hat (daytime around 5-8°C, nighttime can drop to -10°C).
Non-slip Shoes: Hiking boots or snow boots are recommended as some boardwalk sections have thin ice.
Photography Gear: Camera + tripod (for long exposure water shots), phone hand warmer (battery drains quickly in low temperatures), sunglasses (to prevent snow glare).
Others: Thermos (hot water available in the scenic area), sunscreen (strong UV rays at high altitude), power bank.
🌈Notes:
Civilized Touring: Strictly prohibited to climb over boardwalks or step on travertine pools. No fire sources or smoking inside the scenic area.
Safety First: Some sections are slippery after snow. It is recommended to rent trekking poles (10 RMB each) and avoid going alone.
Environmental Protection: Carry your trash down with you as there are few trash bins in the scenic area.