Niubeiliang National Forest Park

Written by Clementine | Updated September 04,2025

Niubeiliang National Forest Park is located at the south foot of Qinling Mountain and it is about a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Xian through Qinling Tunnel. The thick virgin forest, the sequestered creeks, the unique canyon scenery, the seldom-seen stone forest landscape, the Qinling firs, the azalea belt, the alpine meadow, and the ruins of quaternary glacier together contribute to the complicity and uniqueness of the national forest park.

Content Preview

• Travel Information
• Things to Do and See in Niubeiliang National Forest Park
• Best Time to Visit Niubeiliang National Forest Park
• How to Get There
• Travel Tips for Niubeiliang National Forest Park
• FAQs about Niubeiliang National Forest Park
• Travel with China Xian Tour to Discover Niubeiliang National Forest Park

Travel Information

• Location: Zhashui County, Shangluo City, Shaanxi Province (陕西省商洛市柞水县)
• Chinese name: 牛背梁国家森林公园
• Entrance fee: CNY 110 per person; Children under 1.2m could visit for free; Children 1.2-1.4m could visit with half price
• Opening hours: 08:00-18:00
• Public transportation: Take the inter-city bus to Zhashui at South Bus Station of Xian. Get off the bus at the county of Zhashui and take the bus to Niubeiliang National Forest Park. The total transportation cost would be at around RMB40 per person.
• Time Needed: 6 hours to a full day

Things to Do and See in Niubeiliang National Forest Park

The whole Niubeiliang Nature Reserve was divided into four scenic areas and three function areas. At present the ones open to the public are: the comprehensive service area at the park entrance, Lingniugu Sightseeing and Recreation Area, Liuchiling Peak Forest Scenery Area, and Niubeiliang Alpine Scenery Area.

Unique Southern Scenery and Charm in the Park

When you enter the tranquil forest, you will see the verdant hills and green waters which is typical scenery of southern China. Also, there are chances to experience the unique local folk cultures like language, food habit, and folk dwellings. All of these are quite different from what on the north side of the Qinling Mountain. Qinling Mountain is the dividing line of southern and northern China. So the highest spot of the forest park is also called the “Geographical Backbone of China”.

Lingniugu (Takin Valley)

Among all sub scenic area, Lingniugu (Takin Valley) is the most accessible one because here the path is relatively flat so visitors of all ages can enjoy some leisurely time here. The whole valley looks like a natural paradise. The lacune of the mountain massif is filled with a strip of clear blue sky. The cool and torrential waterfalls make the valley the best place to escape from burning summer days. Moreover the creeks and mini water pond on roadside or lying beneath rows of plants make there a picturesque place.

Liuchiling Scenic Area

Liuchiling Scenic Area is steeper and there are much stairs. Young guys and mountain climbing lovers may find it is an ideal place to climb. When climb upstairs visitors will have chance to appreciate Qinling firs, Alpine azalea, Forest growing in rocks and many other landscapes. The ones most worthy of seeing are: Tiangongshi (Rock of Heaven), Dimufeng (Peak of Earth), Lengshanwang (King of Qinling firs), Wanshougui (Longevity Turtle), and Huazhonggui (Queen if Flowers).

When one arrives at Alpine scenery area, taking a walk on the “Geographical Backbone of China” he will find himself in a huge miniature garden. The groves of alpine trees do not grow higher. Instead they grow faster into various postures which just like being designed by a miniature master. The unique climate and wind affected each things growing on the mountain top.

Niubeiliang Alpine Scenery Area

Niubeiliang Alpine Scenery Area possesses boundless alpine meadow, Fir belt, continuous azalea, and ruins of glacier. Only the visitors of strongest will and enough energy could arrive there. Of it is sunny and clear, one could have a bird’s view of the southern part of Xian.

Best Time to Visit Niubeiliang National Forest Park

The best time to visit Niubeiliang National Forest Park is arguably May to October. In spring and early summer, the beauty of scenery will go beyond your imagination when the azaleas and alpine flowers bloom across the slopes. July and August are especially popular as the park will become as a perfect retreat for locals to escape Xi’an’s cruel summer heat.

Autumn (September to October) paints the park into a wonderland in gold and red, many people will come here during this time for hiking or photography. Winter is less recommended due to the trails are likely to be covered by snow and ice, though it does offer a quiet and secluded atmosphere for experienced adventurers.

How to Get There

For a long time the Niubeiliang National Forest Park is hard to get from Xian, because it locates in mountain area of south foot of Qinling Mountain Ranges while Xian is in north side of the mountain ranges. In past it takes at least 4 hours from Xian to the forest park and once it rains or snow, the driving could be dangerous. Before the Qinling Tunnel opens, people have to drive along the way on wait of Qinling Mountain and that is the only highway that connecting two sides of Qinling Mountian. Now as it is much easier to get there, the Niubeiliang National Forest Park becomes a regular summer resort of local people.

Travel Tips for Niubeiliang National Forest Park

• If you want to escape the city and enjoy nature, it’s recommended add one day to your Xian trip to explore main areas of Niubeiliang National Forest Park. If one want to see all highlights of the forest park, 2 days will be good.
• For visitors who want to explore the forest park with less walk, he could take the cable car up/down the mountain.

FAQs about Niubeiliang National Forest Park

Is public transportation available to the park?

Yes. You can take direct shuttle bus from Xi’an to the scenic area, which would take you an hour for one way (depending on the road condition). Ticket for a round trip costs CNY 68 per person.

The bus will depart from Xi’an at 7:50 am and return from the park at 5:00 pm.

What kind of activities can visitors enjoy in the park?

The park is extremely beautiful with its unparalleled natural scenery. So that hiking, sightseeing, photography, or exploring alpine meadows are all popular activities that often practiced by locals. Choose some that suit you the best.

Are there cable cars or other facilities to assist with sightseeing?

Yes. You can take cable cars to reach the higher areas in the park without long climbs. However, the fee for cable car is not included in the entrance ticket, you’ll have to purchase it separately.

What is the weather and temperature like in the park?

The park has a cool mountain climate. Summer is much refreshing compared to Xi’an’s pervasive heat, and spring and autumn also see mild temperatures. Winters can be super cold and snowy, with the trails become icy and difficult to climb.

Is Niubeiliang primarily a day-trip destination, or are there overnight options?

While most people would visit it as a day-trip destination, stay overnight in nearby Zhashui County is still possible. And this would allow you more time in exploring the park while also take a look in nearby areas.

Travel with China Xian Tour to Discover Niubeiliang National Forest Park

The charm of Niubeiliang National Forest Park, indeed, lies not only in activities like hiking through lush forests, there’s far more gems fr you to discover. And to comprehensively understand its environmental and cultural significance, traveling with China Xian Tour would be the best choice.

After professionally helping people plan tours in China for over a decade, we have made our name through offering all high-standard services including reliable transfers, professional guides, and personalized itineraries. With us taking care of the details and being there for you 24 hours a day, the only thing you need to do is enjoy the wonderful days along the way.