Area
Tiger Leaping Gorge
One of the world's deepest gorges, carved by the upper Yangtze
World's deepest river gorge (3,790m peak to river)Classic 2-day high trail trekJade Dragon and Haba snow mountain viewsNaxi minority trail guesthousesUpper Yangtze (Jinsha River) turbulent white water
Best Time to Visit:March–May and September–November are ideal; June–August rainy season with landslide risk; December–February cold but possible
Asia/Shanghai
CNY
Mandarin, Naxi, Tibetan
About Tiger Leaping Gorge
The gorge plunges 3,790 metres from mountain summit to river — deeper than the Grand Canyon — and the Yangtze narrows to just 30 metres at the "Tiger Leaping Stone" where, according to legend, a tiger leaped across to escape a hunter. The classic 22-km high trail traverses dramatic switchbacks and cliff-edge paths, passing through Naxi minority villages where simple guesthouses offer beds and home-cooked meals with views of the snow peaks. The lower road is accessible by vehicle for those who prefer not to hike. The gorge begins 60 km from Lijiang.
Highlights
1
2-day high trail hike (Qiaotou to Walnut Garden)
2
Tiger Leaping Stone at the narrowest point
3
The 28 Bends (steepest section of the trail)
4
Naxi family guesthouses with mountain views
5
Viewpoint of Jade Dragon and Haba mountains facing each other
6
Lower gorge scenic drive option
Climate & Best Time to Visit
Variable with altitude: warm at river level (1,800m), cold in the high mountains. Summers bring significant rainfall with landslide risk on the trail. Spring and autumn offer the best combination of clear skies and walkable conditions.
Getting There
From Lijiang: 60 km north to Qiaotou village (trail start), approximately 1.5 hours by local bus or minivan from Lijiang bus station. Buses depart daily. Walnut Garden (trail end) connects onward to Shangri-La (70 km north) — many trekkers continue there rather than returning to Lijiang.
Practical Tips
The 2-day high trail is one of Asia's best hikes — book Halfway Guesthouse or Sean's Spring in advance
Trekking poles and solid footwear are essential — sections involve steep loose scree
Carry emergency cash — there are no ATMs anywhere on the trail
Check trail conditions with Lijiang hostels before departing — the path can be dangerous after heavy rain
The gorge trail is NOT technically difficult but requires reasonable fitness; total elevation gain is significant
Quick Facts
Best Time to Visit
March–May and September–November are ideal; June–August rainy season with landslide risk; December–February cold but possible
Timezone
Asia/Shanghai
Currency
CNY
Language
Mandarin, Naxi, Tibetan