Taibai Mountain Forest Park (太白山森林公园) covers an area of 29.49 million square meters and ranges in elevation from 620 meters to 3,511 meters, making it the highest national forest park in China. The park is renowned for its stunning forest landscapes, towering peaks, and crystal-clear streams and pools. The mountain’s rugged terrain and majestic scenery make it a breathtaking destination. Even in the height of summer, the peaks are capped with snow, creating the famous view of “Taibai Snow in June,” one of the eight scenic wonders of Guanzhong Plain.
The park’s landscape is dominated by dense forests, with layers of mountain peaks that reach into the clouds and streams that cascade over jagged rocks. The significant elevation difference within the park creates distinct climate, plant, and animal zones, with vertical distribution of vegetation ranging from 620 to 3,511 meters. This results in the presence of climate belts, plant zones, and animal habitats typically found over thousands of kilometers, all within a single park. The vegetation includes three plant zones, seven sub-zones, and 15 vegetation formations.
Taibai Mountain National Forest Park is home to a rich diversity of life, with 1,850 species of seed plants and over 1,690 species of forest animals and insects. The park serves as a natural gene pool, preserving ancient species and offering a well-preserved natural environment. This pristine setting provides an ideal retreat for those seeking to reconnect with nature.
Travel Information about Taibai Mountain Forest Park
Ticket Prices and Opening Hours
Ticket Price: ¥150
Opening Hours:
- Peak Season: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
- Off-Season: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Taibai Mountain National Forest Park are during the summer and autumn. In the summer, the mountain offers a cool retreat, making it an ideal escape from the heat. In autumn, the weather is clear, and the mountainsides are ablaze with red leaves, providing a stunning landscape that invites visitors to pause and admire.
Getting to the Park
Location: Taibai Mountain National Forest Park is situated on the northern slopes of Taibai Mountain in Tangyu Town, Meixian County, at the junction of Zhouzhi and Baoji in the central Qinling Mountains, near Xi’an.
Transportation:
From Xi’an: Take the Taibai Mountain Tourist Line from Xi’an Bus Station to the Taibai Mountain Visitor Center.
From Baoji: Take the Taibai Mountain Tourist Line from Baoji West Station to the Taibai Mountain Visitor Center.
Scenic Ratings
- Cultural Significance: ★★★★
- Unique Features: ★★★
- Relaxation: ★★★
- Beauty: ★★★★
- Romance: ★★
- Adventure: ★★
Highlights of Taibai Mountain Forest Park
Longfeng Mountain Scenic Area
The Longfeng Mountain Scenic Area in Taibai Mountain National Forest Park is known for its unique geological features. Long Mountain (Dragon Mountain) lies on the west bank of the Tangyu River, rising to an elevation of 1,447 meters. From a distance, the mountain resembles a giant dragon lying across the land, with its head facing east as if ready to soar into the sky. The dragon’s body curves southwestward, extending all the way to Daye Sea on Taibai Mountain.
On the opposite side of the river, Feng Mountain (Phonenix Mountain) stands at an elevation of 1,427 meters. From afar, it looks like a majestic phoenix with full plumage spreading its wings. Together, Long Mountain and Phoenix Mountain create a stunning natural tableau symbolizing the auspicious pairing of the dragon and phoenix, a motif deeply embedded in Chinese culture as a symbol of harmony and prosperity.
Dongtian Fudi Scenic Area
The Dongtian Fudi Scenic Area is a part of a Taoist paradise, often centered around famous mountains and sometimes incorporating water features. Situated at an elevation of around 1,000 meters, the area is renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance. Surrounded by lush green mountains, the scenic area is both captivating and serene.
According to historical records, this location was once the retreat of Guiguzi, a legendary Taoist sage who is said to have practiced his teachings and mentored disciples here. Visitors can explore significant sites within the area, such as the Xuande Dongtian Gate Tower, Dushan, and the Dianjiang Platform, each steeped in history and adding to the area’s mystical charm.
Jiujiu Gorge Scenic Area
Jiujiu Gorge Scenic Area, also known as the “Twenty Mile Golden Soup,” is a breathtaking natural wonder characterized by its dramatic landscapes and ever-changing scenery. The area features towering peaks, layered mountain ranges, rushing streams, and deep pools fed by cascading waterfalls.
Among the highlights are the Copper Wall and Iron Wall, sheer cliffs that rise imposingly, exuding a sense of grandeur. The Lotus Peak Waterfall plunges down a thousand feet, creating a spectacular sight. A cliffside plank path winds its way along the steep rock faces, offering thrilling views. Pomo Mountain is a unique formation that appears as if it has been splashed with ink, with vivid, lifelike patterns adorning its surface. The area also features idyllic scenes of a hidden paradise, complete with quaint bridges over flowing streams, embodying a pastoral charm.
Notable landmarks within the scenic area include Penglai Lone Mountain and Jianpi Peak, both of which are towering and majestic, dominating the landscape with their imposing presence.
Legend about Jianpi Peak:
Jianpi Peak (Sword-Cleaved Peak) is a towering rock formation with a legendary origin that adds to its mystique. According to folklore, this peak was cleaved by the immortal Lü Dongbin, one of the Eight Immortals of Chinese mythology. The story goes that Lü Dongbin had a son named Huilang with the Flower Fairy. Huilang was exceptionally intelligent but also arrogant, claiming the mountain as the highest peak in Zhongnan and disrespecting the Kitchen God, which angered the other deities.
In response, the Jade Emperor ordered Lü Dongbin to discipline his son. Despite his efforts, Huilang continued his unruly behavior. In a fit of anger, Lü Dongbin struck the peak with his sword, splitting it in two and creating the sheer, knife-like rock face that we see today. This dramatic peak, known as Jianpi Peak, stands as a testament to the legend and remains a striking feature of the landscape.
Tianqiao Xiangu Scenic Area
Tianqiao Xiangu Scenic Area (Heavenly Birdge and Immortal Valley Scenic Area) is situated on the eastern side of Jiujiu Gorge and is known for its impressive natural features like the Giant Immortal Bridge and Lotus Peak Waterfall.
Lotus Peak is located 16 kilometers into the park and is named for its resemblance to a blooming lotus flower. When viewed from the peak, the surrounding mountains form what appears to be the petals of a lotus, with Lotus Peak standing at the center, representing the flower’s pistil. The Lotus Peak Waterfall cascades down a dramatic 150-meter drop from the mountain’s summit. The waterfall resembles a white silk ribbon gracefully suspended in the air, or a vibrant rainbow arching between the mountains. Standing before the waterfall, visitors are enveloped in the mist, which brings a refreshing coolness and a sense of tranquility.
Guanyunhai Scenic Area
Guanyunhai Scenic Area (Cloud Sea Viewing Area) is located at an elevation of 2,300 to 3,511 meters, spanning two climate zones: the subalpine and alpine belts. The area features three distinct vegetation zones: Taibai Mountain fir forests, larch woods, and alpine shrub meadows. The high-altitude landscapes here are breathtaking, with constantly shifting weather patterns creating mesmerizing cloud seas, particularly in summer and autumn. Visitors often feel as though they’ve stepped into a fairyland, with the towering Qiniufeng Peaks offering a blend of beauty and peril. The distant mountains layer upon each other, evoking a sense of peace and awe. Additionally, the area is rich in Quaternary glacial relics, displaying an array of fascinating geological formations. With temperatures typically 5 to 15°C cooler than at the mountain’s base, the area is an ideal destination for summer retreats, vacations, and scientific research.
Baxiantai (Ascending Immortal Terrace)
Baxiantai is the highest peak of Taibai Mountain, standing at an impressive 3,767 meters above sea level, making it the highest summit in eastern mainland China. The peak is renowned for its stunning views, offering breathtaking scenes of sunrises and sunsets that fill the sky with vibrant hues and an aura of boundless beauty.
Baxiantai resembles an irregular triangular pyramid, towering majestically into the clouds with steep cliffs on three sides, presenting a formidable and awe-inspiring sight from below. The summit is marked by ancient temples, perched seemingly in the sky, adding to the peak’s dramatic and perilous appearance. However, once you reach the top, a different scene unfolds—a spacious and flat plateau where the Fengshentai (Deification Platform) and Leishendian (Thunder God Temple) are located. From here, a path leads directly to the Xipaomaliang ridge.
Standing atop Baxiantai, the view is nothing short of spectacular, with the surrounding peaks appearing dwarfed beneath you, and the vast expanse of the heavens opening up around you. The experience of gazing out over this panoramic vista evokes a profound sense of freedom and grandeur.
Watching Sunrise from Baxiantai:
Watching the sunrise from Baxiantai is truly a delightful experience. As the sun rises through the orange-yellow mist, emerging from behind the jagged mountain peaks, people often find themselves cheering and jumping for joy, marveling at the breathtaking beauty of the landscape. This magical moment captures the essence of nature’s splendor, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness it.
Taibai Mountain International Tourist Resort
Taibai Mountain International Tourist Resort features the largest ski resort in Shaanxi province, surrounded by mountains and nestled by water, creating a picturesque landscape. The resort has imported the world’s most advanced snowmaking machines and skiing equipment from countries like the United States and Canada. In addition to skiing, the resort offers thrilling activities such as snowmobiling and snow tubing, catering to visitors of all ages with options like snow discs and a children’s playground filled with winter fun. This makes it an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and families looking to enjoy winter sports.
Visitor Guide for Taibai Mountain Forest Park
Accommodation Options
The Taibai Mountain area offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors. Within the scenic area and its surroundings, you can find star-rated hotels with prices ranging from approximately 100 to 300 yuan per night. For those seeking standard inns, the cost typically falls between 80 and 160 yuan. Budget travelers can choose from individual small guesthouses, where beds range from 10 to 30 yuan.
For those staying on the mountain, wooden villas are available at prices between 150 to 300 yuan per room, while double rooms range from 100 to 160 yuan. Standard beds can be found for around 20 to 50 yuan each. With these diverse options, Taibai Mountain caters to all types of travelers, whether you prefer luxury, standard, or budget accommodations.
Culinary Delights
Visitors to Taibai Mountain can indulge in a variety of local delicacies that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage. Among the most popular dishes are Saozi Noodles, a traditional Shaanxi snack known for its diverse varieties, featuring thin, chewy noodles with a delightful mix of sour, spicy, and fragrant flavors. The famed Qishan Saozi Noodles stand out for their strong local character, particularly their sour and spicy profile.
Another must-try is Liangpi, a cold noodle dish that can be enjoyed in various ways, whether mixed with sauces, served hot, or stir-fried like a noodle dish. The vibrant red Liangpi is especially refreshing, leaving a trace of chili oil around your lips, reminiscent of a lipstick stain.
Other notable dishes include Jiangshui Noodles, Chuo Mian (pulled noodles), Liangfen (cold jelly noodles), Mianyu (noodles with fish), and Mashi (fried dough). For those craving snacks, there are Jianbing (Chinese pancakes), Guokui (baked flatbreads), and Roujiamo (meat sandwiches). Don’t miss trying local specialties like Cufun (vinegar noodles), Qiaoge (a type of sweet cake), and Douhua (tofu pudding).
Additionally, you can sample Maifan Rice, Scallion Pancakes, Tea Cakes, and various mountain teas that enhance the culinary experience. With such an array of flavorful options, Taibai Mountain promises a delightful journey for food lovers.
What to do
Taibai Mountain National Forest Park offers a range of exciting activities for visitors to enjoy amidst its stunning natural scenery. One of the highlights is the Taibai River Rafting, located at the foot of Taibai Mountain. This thrilling experience is set against the backdrop of the Qinling mountain range, with meltwater from the snow-capped peaks serving as the source. The rafting route stretches 9.6 kilometers and lasts about 2 to 3 hours, combining excitement, safety, and comfort. As you paddle through the clear waters, you can revel in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape, with the cost for this adventure at 158 yuan per person.
In addition to rafting, the Taibai Mountain Phoenix Hot Springs provide a perfect opportunity for relaxation. This unique outdoor geothermal hot spring is the first of its kind in the Northwest region, featuring water sourced from deep beneath the earth’s surface, over 2,000 meters down. The mineral-rich waters are renowned for their health benefits, making it an ideal spot for rejuvenation and wellness.
Each year, the Taibai Mountain Temple Fair takes place on the first day of the seventh month of the lunar calendar, drawing crowds from near and far. This lively event transforms the area into a bustling hub of activity, with visitors celebrating and exploring the culture and traditions of the region. However, during the winter months, heavy snowfall can lead to the closure of cable cars and restricted access to certain areas of the park, so it’s advisable to check ahead for specific conditions.
Routes for Climbing Taibai Mountain
North Slope Routes:
- The route from Zhouzhi County’s Tangyu to Taibai Mountain includes Shangban Temple, Dayehai, and ends at Baxiantai. This well-maintained climbing path covers approximately 40 kilometers. There is also a cable car that takes visitors to the mid-mountain area, making it a convenient option for casual tourists. Taking the cable car allows for an easier ascent, making it possible to complete the visit within a day.
- Starting from Yingtou Town, this route leads through Zhongshan Temple, Baiyun Temple, Doumu Palace, Dadian, Ping’an Temple, Wengong Temple, and finally to Baxiantai, with a total walking distance of about 90 kilometers. Along this path, visitors can explore temples from the Ming and Qing dynasties and even older periods. This route is ideal for those interested in historical sites and serene landscapes. The trek usually requires two days for a one-way journey.
- The third route begins at Yingge Town and goes through Yangpigu, Ping’an Temple, Wengong Temple, and reaches Baxiantai, covering approximately 90 kilometers. This journey typically takes two days.
South Slope Routes:
- The classic climbing route from Zhouzhi County’s Houzhengzi Township leads through Liangshui Well, Nantianmen, Yuhuang Pond, Sanyehai, Eryehai, and culminates at Baxiantai, with a walking distance of over 30 kilometers.
- Alternatively, the route through Houzhengzi Township includes Sanhe Palace Waterfall, Nantianmen, Yuhuang Pond, Sanyehai, Eryehai, and ends at Baxiantai. This newer route overlaps with the old path but is about 5 kilometers shorter. It follows a small creek, requiring hikers to cross the stream multiple times, which can be challenging during rainy weather. The scenery remains quite similar to that of the older path.
- The route from Dudumen includes Taibaishan Temple, Lingguan Hall, Paoma Liang, and concludes at Baxiantai, covering around 90 kilometers. This longer route primarily ascends along ridges, offering expansive views and scenic beauty.
Typically, climbing Taibai Mountain requires 3 to 5 days. Hiring a local guide is recommended for a smoother experience, with a fee for their services. Other than the Tangyu tourism route, accommodations are limited to Taoist temples along the way, though bringing your own food, tent, and sleeping bag allows for more flexibility in your itinerary or the option to stay at hotels lower down the mountain.