Cili County, Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province, China
Walking on the world-famous glass bridge in Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is a "can't miss" experience
Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon (Chinese name: 张家界大峡谷) is located in Sanguan Township, Cili County, Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province, China. It is quite closed to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Wulingyuang Scenic Area. Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is a recently-developed natural wonderland that is famous for beautiful natural landscape and cultural sites. It incorporates green mountains, mild streams, intrigued caves, steep cliffs, and thick forest. Here is the museum of landform of Zhangjiajie. You can see the unique Karst topography scenery of the North Temperate Zone.
Glass Bridge of Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
In the bottom of Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is a clear and beautiful stream. Beside and along the stream are wooden trails for tourists to walk and hike. Visitor need to hike in the bottom of the Grand Canyon to admire its beauty. The hike for the start point to the end in the canyon usually takes 3 to 4 hours. It is a long walking time and requests good physical condition.
The hike in the canyon start with a long and narrow vertical gap between two mountain cliffs known as a Strip of Sky (一线天), with the sunlight shining through the gap. You need to walk a 700-meter-long trail with steep stairs lined with the iron railings leading down the Canyon. The elevation difference between the gap on the top and the canyon on the bottom is over 300 meters. As you descend, some stairs are so steep that they look nearly vertical. However, you will find it is most rewarding when passing through the beautiful, tranquil sceneries, despite the wobbly legs.
Pass through the Strip of Sky, you will reach a trestle road between cliff. The trestle has a steep slope like a high ladder. You need to walk up along the stair steps. Travelers who walk for about 3 minutes will get to the point where they can have a panoramic view of the Strip of Sky. Continue to hike in the canyon. In the halfway, there is a 600-meter-long marble slide, winding its way down to the bottom of the valley. It is optional and may be a funny trip for kids or young people. You can also choose to hike down. After that, continue you hiking trip along the plank road or mountain trail.
In the last portion of the canyon is a small reservoir used for hydropower station. So you need to take a short boat ride from the Upper Pier of the Cruise to the Down Pier. After you get off the boat, the hiking tour ends.
【Best time to visit】 April, May, September and October is the best time to visit Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, when is cool and comfortable. It is a little cold in winter.
【How to get there】
If you travel from Wulingyuan, the most convenient way to get to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is to take bus at Wulingyuan Bus Station to Cili(慈利). It is about 15 kilometers and take about 30 minutes. Upon your arrival in Cili, it would be very convenient to reach the entrance of Grand Canyon.
If you travel from Zhangjiajie downtown, it is suggested to take bus at Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station to Wulingyuan first, then transfer to the bus that leaves for Cili. It is about 50 kilometers and takes more than 1 hour to get there.
It is recommended to spend 4 to 5 hours to visit inside the scenic area.
4 Days Zhangjiajie Highlight Tour
Huangshi Village, Golden Whip Stream, Tianzi Mountain, Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, Tianmen Mountain
1. Check the Weather Before You Go
The best time to visit the glass bridge is on a clear, sunny day. Rain, fog, or strong winds can significantly reduce the transparency of the glass and impair visibility. In such weather, not only is the view less impressive, but safety concerns may also lead to temporary closure of the bridge. Always check the local weather forecast before your visit to avoid disappointment.
2. Wear the Right Shoes and Clothing
Avoid wearing high heels, flip-flops, or any footwear that may slip off easily. Comfortable sneakers or walking shoes are highly recommended for safety and ease of movement. Oversized or flowing clothing is also not advised, as it may interfere with walking or get caught on railings.
3. Mind What You Carry
For safety reasons, sharp objects, flammable items, liquids, and other potentially hazardous materials are not allowed on the bridge. If you are carrying any of these, make sure to store them in the designated lockers at the entrance. Selfie sticks are also prohibited to prevent accidental damage to the bridge or disturbance to other visitors.
4. Be Mindful with Children and Seniors
The experience of walking on a transparent glass floor suspended 300 meters above ground can be intense, especially for young children or older adults. It’s advised that they are accompanied by family members and only attempt the walk if they are in good physical condition. People with high blood pressure, heart conditions, or fear of heights should exercise caution and carry any necessary medication.
5. Respect the Rules and Other Visitors
While on the bridge, please follow all posted rules and staff instructions. Running, jumping, pushing, or climbing the railings is strictly prohibited. Keep your voice down to maintain a peaceful atmosphere and avoid disturbing others. Photography is allowed, but always be aware of your surroundings and don’t block pathways.
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