Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Beyond the Floating Peaks

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Beyond the Floating Peaks

Category: Ecotourism / National Parks / Mountain Landscapes
Region: Central China — Hunan Province

About the Destination

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, part of the larger Wulingyuan Scenic Area (UNESCO World Heritage Site), is world-renowned for its surreal sandstone columns that seem to float among the clouds. These unique formations inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the film Avatar, drawing global attention to this once-hidden natural treasure in Hunan Province.

The park’s biodiversity is equally remarkable — home to endangered macaques, giant salamanders, and hundreds of native plant species. Eco-trails, glass skywalks, and well-maintained boardwalks allow travelers to explore the forest with minimal environmental impact. Zhangjiajie combines ancient geology, lush forests, and misty cliffs in an unforgettable eco-adventure, all while supporting sustainable practices and local communities.

Good to know

Best travel seasons: March–May and September–November (cooler temperatures, clear skies)

Access tips: The park uses eco-buses; private cars are not allowed inside main zones

Conservation focus: Well-defined trails and viewing platforms help prevent erosion and protect fragile flora

Wildlife notes: Macaques roam freely — keep a respectful distance and do not feed them

Local culture: The Tujia and Miao minority communities near the park often run homestays and eco-lodges — support local when possible

China

China

Online Guide:6-Day Eco-Hiking Adventure in Zhangjiajie

Day 1: Arrival in Zhangjiajie City and Introduction to the Region
Fly or take a train into Zhangjiajie City, the gateway to the park. Check in at a local guesthouse using eco-friendly practices. In the afternoon, stroll along the Tujia Folk Customs Park for cultural orientation and enjoy a local plant-based dinner.

Day 2: Golden Whip Stream and Rainforest Trails
Enter Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and begin your hike along Golden Whip Stream, a peaceful, forested trail at the base of towering sandstone pillars. Watch for playful macaques and rare bird species as you walk beneath the cliffs. Overnight in a lodge inside the scenic area.

Day 3: Avatar Mountains and Yuanjiajie Scenic Area
Take an eco-shuttle or hike up to Yuanjiajie, the area most famous for the “floating” peaks seen in Avatar. Cross the First Bridge Under Heaven and view Hallelujah Mountain. Use marked wooden walkways and scenic platforms for photography and peaceful reflection.

Day 4: Tianzi Mountain and High-Altitude Forests
Spend the day hiking around Tianzi Mountain, known for panoramic views over the entire Wulingyuan region. This area is less crowded and ideal for nature lovers. Enjoy a quiet lunch at a local farm café and visit smaller, lesser-known trails surrounded by rhododendrons and ferns.

Day 5: Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and Glass Bridge
Head to the nearby Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, where eco-paths lead down through cliffs and waterfalls to the famous Glass Bridge — the longest of its kind. Walk across (if you’re brave!) or enjoy the canyon’s forest trails below. Learn about erosion control and landscape preservation projects in the area.

Day 6: Baofeng Lake and Departure
Before departing, enjoy a gentle boat ride on Baofeng Lake, surrounded by vertical rock walls and subtropical vegetation. Wrap up the journey with a farewell meal at a local eco-restaurant, then transfer to Zhangjiajie airport or train station.

Follow our news