Tiger Leaping Gorge Guide
Conquer the Gorge: Hike the Majestic Tiger Leaping Gorge Guide
Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest and most spectacular river canyons in the world. Located near Lijiang in Yunnan Province, China, it's a breathtaking natural wonder carved by the Jinsha River (the upper reaches of the Yangtze River) as it flows between the towering Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain. The gorge offers stunning views, challenging hikes, and a chance to experience the raw power of nature. Legend has it that a tiger once leaped across the narrowest point of the gorge to escape a hunter, hence the name. The gorge has been a significant trade route for centuries, connecting Yunnan with Tibet. The local Naxi people have lived in the area for generations, maintaining their unique culture and traditions. The hiking trails along the gorge offer glimpses into their rural way of life, with opportunities to stay in guesthouses run by local families. The main activity at Tiger Leaping Gorge is hiking. There are two main trails: the High Trail and the Middle Trail. The High Trail is the more popular and well-maintained route, offering panoramic views of the gorge. It typically takes 2-3 days to complete. The Middle Trail is more challenging and less traveled, requiring some scrambling and offering closer views of the river. Regardless of which trail you choose, be prepared for steep climbs, uneven terrain, and breathtaking scenery. You can also visit the Tiger Leaping Stone, the legendary spot where the tiger is said to have leaped. Local guesthouses offer simple but hearty meals, often featuring local ingredients like yak cheese and wild mushrooms.
Transportation
Buses to Tiger Leaping Gorge depart from Lijiang Bus Station. You can take a bus to Qiaotou (桥头), the starting point for the High Trail. From Qiaotou, you can hire a local driver to take you to the trailhead or start hiking directly. Alternatively, you can take a bus directly to Walnut Garden (核桃园) or Tina's Guesthouse, which are located further along the gorge.