A Practical Guide to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Routes, Map & Travel Tips

If it’s your first visit to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, set aside at least two full days for a classic route: one day focusing on the peak forests in Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain, while the other dedicated to valley landscapes around the Golden Whip Stream and Huangshizhai.

If you have only one day, head to Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain. For a three-day itinerary, you can also include Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon for a longer hike.

There are five entrances plus several independent sights inside this scenic area. Visitors can easily get confused and spend a lot of time queuing, transferring, or even making detours without a well-planned route. This article seeks to guide you on which entrance to take, how to transfer between different sections, which sights require additional fees for transportation, and where to stay to guarantee the best travel experience.

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• At a Glance: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
• Which Area of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is Best for First-time Visitors?
• Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Map & Routes to Take
• Which Entrance Is Best for Zhangjiajie National Forest Park？
• How to Spend 1, 2, or 3 Days in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
• Ticket Price, Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
• How to Get to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park?
• Where to Stay in Zhangjiajie?
• Travel Tips for Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

At a Glance: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Located in Wulingyuan District of Zhangjiajie City, Hunan Province, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a key component of Wulingyuan Scenic Area.

The quartz sandstone peak forests are quite awe-inspiring. They are what most tourists come here for. The park is also the filming location of the Floating Mountains in the famous movie Avatar.

First-time visitors may easily get confused by the three scenic sights listed below:

Sights	What to See / Things to Do	Recommended Visiting Length
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park	The peak forests in Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, Golden Whip Stream, Huangshizhai	2 days
Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon	The Glass Bridge, hike through the canyon	0.5 – 1 day
Tianmen Mountain	Tianmen Cave, the long cableway, cliff-hanging walkway	0.5 – 1 day

They are three independent attractions, and not connected by the shuttle bus within the forest park. Besides, you need to get separate tickets for them.

Which Area of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is Best for First-time Visitors?

Basically, the park offers visitors two distinctive views. In other words, you can get a grand panoramic view of the peak forest from the mountain top and gaze up at the stone pillars and forests from the valley bottom.

On your first visit, don’t aim to check in at all sights. Start your trip with Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain. Add Golden Whip Stream and Huangshizhai onto your list if time permits.

Yuanjiajie – A Must-visit (★★★★★)

If your time only allows for visiting one area, do pick Yuanjiajie, where the iconic “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain” is located. It features the highlights of the mountain, the Lost Soul Terrace, and the First Bridge Under Heaven.

Multiple viewing terraces are available, presenting a stunning visual impact created by dense stone pillars rising from the ground. Apart from visiting the scenic spots, you can take the Bailong Elevator, which holds the Guinness World Record as the highest outdoor elevator. The cabin is made of transparent glass, offering a sweeping view of the quartz sandstone peak forest. Generally speaking, 1.5 to 2 hours is enough for the whole visit.

Tianzi Mountain (★★★★★)

Tianzi Mountain enjoys an advantageous location. Compared with other sights, it is blessed with a broader panoramic view of peak forests. What you should not miss are the Imperial Brush Peak, the Fairy Scattering Flowers Scenic Spot, and the viewing platforms around Helong Park.

Seasoned travelers usually combine Tianzi Mountain with Yuanjiajie for a one-day itinerary, for the two hilltops are conveniently connected by sightseeing shuttle buses.

Golden Whip Stream (★★★★☆)

Unlike the feeling of standing atop the forest peaks, the Golden Whip Stream offers the view of gazing up at the stone pillars from the bottom of the valley.

The entire trek is not difficult, with relatively even walkways spanning approximately 5.8 to 7.5 kilometers. Depending on the section you choose, it typically takes 2 to 3 hours to finish the walk. With deep shade and cool air in summer, the scenic area is ideal for hikers and family visitors. If the visibility is low at the summit due to thick mist, the Golden Whip Stream makes a perfect alternative.

Huangshizhai (★★★★☆)

Huangshizhai is a relatively independent peak that can be accessed either by cable car or on foot. It’s best to be visited together with the South Gate and the Golden Whip Stream. If you have only two days and wish to spare one day for Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain, decide whether to fully explore Huangshizhai based on your physical strength.

Ten-Mile Gallery (★★★☆☆)

This is a 1.7-kilometer-long valley route that can be completed on foot or by mini train. The journey is easy and enjoyable, making it a perfect choice for elder visitors and those travelling with kids. A classic combo goes like the East Gate + Ten-Mile Gallery + Tianzi Mountain Cableway.

Yangjiajie (★★★☆☆)

If you have three days and are fond of hiking, or you’ve already explored the classic sights in Zhangjiajie, Yangjiajie is a wonderful option with less crowds.

So, let’s sum it up: which area is the top recommendation for first-time visitors?

The answer is simple: the first priority is given to Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain; for a 2-day schedule, consider the Golden Whip Stream and Huangshizhai as well.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Map & Routes to Take

Before looking at the map of Zhangjiajie Forest Park, be aware that the park is divided into the “hilltop” and “valley” sections.

The hilltop section mainly includes:

Yuanjiajie → Yangjiajie → Tianzi Mountain

The three spots are linked by mountaintop shuttle buses. Therefore, you can visit Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain in one go without descending and re-ascending.

The valley section mainly includes:

Golden Whip Stream → Ten-Mile Gallery

They are located at the mountain foot or in the valley.

How to travel between the hilltop and valley sections?

This is one of the most crucial things to know whenever you are planning a route for Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

Regular means of transportation (uphill/downhill) include:

• Bailong Elevator: connecting the mountain foot and the vicinity of Yuanjiajie.
• Tianzi Mountain Cableway: connecting the East Gate and the summit of Tianzi Mountain.
• Yangjiajie Cableway: connecting the West Gate and Yangjiajie.
• Huangshizhai Cableway: serving Huangshizhai exclusively.

Although the shuttle bus fare is covered by the entrance ticket, it cannot take you to all the mountaintops.

Classic Essence Route:

East Gate → Bailong Elevator → Yuanjiajie → Tianzi Mountain → Tianzi Mountain Cableway → East Gate

Hilltop +Valley Route:

South Gate → Golden Whip Stream → Shuiraosimen (Water Rapping Around Four Gates) → Bailong Elevator → Yuanjiajie

Forest Hiking Route:

South Gate → Huangshizhai → Golden Whip Stream → Shuiraosimen (Water Rapping Around Four Gates) → East Gate

It should be noted that: from the East Gate, the shuttle buses to Bailong Elevator and Tianzi Mountain Cableway go in different directions, so you can’t easily switch between routes inside the park. It’s best to decide whether to go uphill by the elevator or cableway before you enter.

Which Entrance Is Best for Zhangjiajie National Forest Park？

There are altogether 5 entrances to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, but most international tourists only enter through the East Gate or the South Gate.

Which Entrance to Take If It’s My First Time in Zhangjiajie?

The prior choice is definitely the East Gate, the most popular entrance to Wulingyuan Scenic Area. Visitors can easily find hotels, restaurants and entertainment facilities in the surrounding area. The Xibu Ancient Street is within walking distance of the East Gate. It’s also near the venue for the Zhangjiajie Romance Show. In addition, the East Gate provides easy access to the core attractions such as the Ten-Mile Gallery, Bailong Elevator and Tianzi Mountain Cableway.

A majority of Zhangjiajie 1-2 day classic itineraries start from the East Gate.

Under What Circumstances Should I Take the South Gate?

If you desire to go on a full-day hike to Huangshizhai and Golden Whip Stream, and want to avoid the big morning crowds at the East Gate, enter through the South Gate instead.

Plus, if you are on a multi-day tour for Zhangjiajie, it’s not necessary to take the same entrance everyday. For example, you can start with the East Gate on the first day to follow the classic tour route. On the next day, enter through the South Gate to explore the Golden Whip Stream and exit via the East Gate. This way, you won’t make extra detours.

How to Spend 1, 2, or 3 Days in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

A good plan is not about how to pack your day with as many attractions as possible. The key is to avoid repeated uphill-downhill trips and unnecessary bus transfers.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park 1-Day Itinerary

Since you only have one day, it’s recommended to skip the valley part.

Route: East Gate → Bailong Elevator → Yuanjiajie → Tianzi Mountain → Tianzi Mountain Cableway → East Gate

This way, you can take in the most iconic forests of peaks in Zhangjiajie in one go.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park 2-Day Itinerary – Top Recommendation

Day 1: Yuanjiajie + Tianzi Mountain

East Gate → Bailong Elevator → Yuanjiajie → Tianzi Mountain → Tianzi Mountain Cableway → East Gate

Day 2: Huangshizhai + Golden Whip Stream

South Gate → Huangshizhai → Golden Whip Stream → Shuiraosimen → Ten-Mile Gallery (optional depending on your physical strength) → East Gate

This route perfectly blends the hilltop and valley landscapes. It’s the best option for first-time visitors if they are pressed for time.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park 3-Day Itinerary

On the first two days, follow the above route. On the third day, engage yourself in an in-depth hike around Yangjiajie and Golden Whip Stream, rather than simply visiting these attractions again. You can also consider taking a photography tour to Yuanjiajie or Tianzi Mountain if the weather is fine.

The weather in Zhangjiajie changes quickly, so one of the biggest advantages of a 3-day itinerary is to leave a buffer day for bad weather.

Ticket Price, Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit

Buying a ticket to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park does not mean you’ll have free access to all the facilities inside the scenic area.

A common adult ticket for the Wulingyuan Scenic Area costs about CNY 236, covering the entrance fee and shuttle bus fare, excluding insurance.

The ticket is usually valid for 4 days.

The following transit options require additional payment (one-way price for reference):

Service	One-Way Price
Bailong Elevator	CNY 65 (USD 10)
Tianzi Mountain Cableway	CNY 72 (USD 11)
Huangshizhai Cableway	CNY 65 (USD 10)
Yangjiajie Cableway	CNY 76 (USD 11)
Ten-Mile Gallery Small Train	CNY 38 (USD 6)

So keep in mind that your entrance ticket is not an all-inclusive pass. It covers the shuttle bus fare, but not the cable cars, Bailong Elevator, or the small train.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Opening Hours

The scenic area is normally open between 7am and 6pm, and the last entry time is 5pm.

The service hours of the cable cars and Bailong Elevator may differ from this.

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

To seek a balance of weather and scenery, April, May, September, and October are the best months to visit.

The mountains are covered by lush greenness from April to May. The sea of clouds is easy to see after rain.

In September and October, it’s always sunny, ensuring consistently good visibility.

Try to avoid: May 1-5, October 1-7, and the Chinese summer vacation from mid-July to the end of August. These are the peak periods when you may face long queues for popular cable cars and Bailong Elevator.

Can I Still Visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park If It Rains?

Yes, but you need to adjust the travel route. Actually, it becomes easier to see clouds and mists swirling around the peak forests during or after light rain.

The real issue is that thick fog may completely block your view of the mountaintop scenery at Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain. If the visibility at the mountaintop is poor on the day of your visit, consider changing your destination to the Golden Whip Stream and Ten-Mile Gallery. Go uphill until it clears up.

By the way, the Golden Whip Stream is inherently a good fit for rainy days.

How to Get to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park?

If you’re here mainly to visit the forest park, the location of your hotel is much more important than its reputation. Most first-time visitors will stay near the East Gate of Wulingyuan Scenic Area for its convenience.

How to Travel From Zhangjiajie West Train Station to Wulingyuan?

High-speed rail passengers usually arrive at Zhangjiajie West Railway Station. Then take a taxi directly to the East Gate. It takes about 30 minutes, at the price of CNY 60 – 70.

Or you can take a tourist bus to Wulingyuan Bus Station. The whole ride lasts about 40 minutes. The ticket price is CNY 13. After getting off the bus, walk for 10-15 minutes to the East Gate.

How to Travel From Zhangjiajie Airport to Wulingyuan?

Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport is about 30km from Wulingyuan. The most convenient way to get to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is taking a taxi or using ride hailing services.

Airport → East Gate: about 40 minutes, CNY 90 – 100

Airport → South Gate: about 35 minutes, CNY 70 – 80

If you choose to get there by public transportation, the cost is lower, but it’s not recommended because you have to go to Zhangjiajie Central Bus Station first and then transfer to a tourist bus.

Where to Stay in Zhangjiajie?

It’s best to stay near the East Gate if you visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park for the first time.

Pros:

• Within walking distance of the park.
• A rich selection of restaurants and hotels.
• You can enter the park early in the next morning to avoid crowds.
• Close to Wulingyuan Bus Station.

Top-rated hotels near the East Gate:

• Hampton by Hilton Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: 5-star, approximately 700 yuan/night (shoulder season)
• Lanting Elegant Restaurant Hotel: 4-star, approximately 450 yuan/night (shoulder season)
• Yun Shang De Jia Homestay: 3-star, approximately 400 yuan/night (shoulder season)

The South Gate area is more suitable for hikers, especially those who plan to visit Huangshizhai or the Golden Whip Stream in the morning, but there are fewer dining and accommodation options.

The downtown area is a better choice for those planning to explore Tianmen Mountain, catch an early flight, or arrive late at night. If you are planning a 2-day itinerary to Zhangjiajie Forest Park, it’s not recommended to stay overnight in the city center.

Travel Tips for Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

You may walk more than 20,000 steps a day in the park, even with the extensive use of cable cars and shuttle buses. Please wear comfortable non-slip sneakers. It’s more important than looking good for photos.

Signals in mountainous areas may not be stable. Please save an offline E-map in advance or carry a paper map with you.

You may encounter wild macaques every now and then around the Golden Whip Stream, Huangshizhai, and Yangjiajie. Do not feed them. Avoid holding snacks or plastic bags in your hands, as macaques may snatch them away.

Be sure to book tickets in advance during peak season. Confirm the admission time slot everyday for multi-day tours. Purchase tickets through official channels. Bring your original passport for entry into the park, as passport photos may not work.

Pay attention to the operating hours of the last cable car and shuttle bus. They may differ from the last entry time of the scenic area. Confirm in advance the last operating hours of the cable cars and Bailong Elevator if you visit the hilltop sections in the afternoon.