Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiao Gorge) / 虎跳峡
One of the deepest and most spectacular river canyons in the world, carved by the Jinsha River (upper Yangtze) between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain. The gorge is approximately 16 km long with a maximum depth of 3,790 meters. It consists of Upper, Middle, and Lower sections, with the famous Tiger Leaping Stone where a tiger allegedly leaped across the river.
Category
Nature
Why Visit
- World-class hiking trails with breathtaking gorge views, dramatic cliffs, and roaring river rapids. The 2-day High Trail is considered one of the world's great treks. Even non-hikers can enjoy the Upper Gorge viewing platforms accessible by road.
Suggested Duration
Day trip (Upper Gorge) or 2 days (High Trail hike)
Best Visiting Time
April-June and September-November for best weather. Avoid July-August (heavy rains, landslide risk) and winter (cold, some trails closed).
Suitable For
- Adventure seekers, hikers, nature lovers (Upper Gorge suitable for all ages)
Tips
- Buses depart from Lijiang Bus Station at 8:00, 8:30, and 9:30 AM (CNY 30-50, 2 hours). The Lixiang Railway (opened Nov 2023) offers a scenic 40-minute train ride to Tiger Leaping Gorge Station. The 168 Steps Sky Ladder is not for the faint-hearted!
Admission Type
Paid Ticket
Reservation Required
Yes
Price Estimates
Upper Gorge: CNY 45; Middle Gorge access: additional CNY 15-20; Bus from Lijiang: CNY 30-50
Reservation Max.
7 days in advance
Opening Hours
08:00-18:00
Address (English & Chinese)
Hutiaoxia Town, Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Lijiang City, Yunnan Province 中国云南省丽江市玉龙纳西族自治县虎跳峡镇