Tiger Leaping Gorge is where the Jinsha River, the upper Yangtze, squeezes between Jade Dragon and Haba snow mountains. The river drops through a series of rapids in a gorge roughly 3,800 metres deep at its highest point. The classic high trail runs from Qiaotou to Tina's Guesthouse over two days, with the option of descending to the river at Middle Tiger Leaping Stone.
In short
Two days, one night in a guesthouse, and about 22 kilometres of trail. Go north from Lijiang, start early, and do not attempt the whole thing in one day. The high trail is exposed, beautiful, and harder than the photos suggest.
Before you book
Prices and schedules change
Reserve the fixed-time items first, then build the rest around the weather. If you are deciding between two versions of the trip, send both.
Why go
This is the most dramatic day-and-a-half of walking in Yunnan. The trail is cut into the side of the gorge, with the river a vertical kilometre below and Haba Snow Mountain filling the far wall. Villages, walnut trees, and guesthouses break up the walking, and the light changes constantly.
It is also a real hike, not a stroll. The path is narrow in places, exposed in others, and the famous 28 bends climb steadily. If you want a taste without the full trek, you can walk the first section and return, or drive to a viewpoint and skip the trail.
The two-day route
Start at Qiaotou, walk through the village, and follow the high trail to Naxi Family Guesthouse for lunch. The afternoon climb over the 28 bends is the hardest part; take it slowly. Sleep at Tea Horse or Halfway Guesthouse, both with views across the gorge.
On day two, walk to Tina's Guesthouse, then descend to Middle Tiger Leaping Stone if the path is open and you are confident on steep steps. The return climb is strenuous. Alternatively, continue on the high trail to Walnut Garden and arrange a pick-up. Drivers usually wait at Tina's.
- Start before 9am to avoid the heat on the 28 bends.
- Carry water, sun protection, and cash for guesthouses.
- Pack light; your bag goes with you over the trail.
- Check river path conditions locally before descending.
Getting there and when
The gorge is about 130 kilometres north of Lijiang, a 2- to 2.5-hour drive. Buses run from Lijiang to Qiaotou, but a hired driver or a guesthouse-arranged transfer is easier and lets you start early. Ask the driver to wait at Tina's or arrange a pick-up for the second afternoon.
October to May is the dry season, with clear views and cool walking. June to September brings rain, slippery trails, and cloud that hides the peaks. Winter mornings are cold but the light is sharp. Avoid the trail during heavy rain or after snow.
Verdict
Go for the high trail, not the viewpoint; give it two days and start early.
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