Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking

Tiger Leaping Gorge is considered one of China's best hiking areas for its perfect adventurous and off-the-beaten routes, shining Naxi culture, and sheer gorge scenery. It is on the way from Lijiang (2 hours' driving) to Shangri-La (3 hours' driving) in Southwest China's Yunnan Province.
Winding around 22 km (14 miles) in total, Tiger Leaping Gorge provides various hiking routes, including something to meet your hiking level. Trekking for a half day, one day, or two days is available based on your preference.
Tiger Leaping Gorge hiking is suitable for most of the year, except during the rainy season from June to September, when landslides may occur.
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· Hiking Difficulty
· Recommended Hiking Routes
· Best Times to Hike in Tiger Leaping Gorge
· How to Get to Tiger Leaping Gorge
· Is It Safe to Hike Alone?
· What to Pack for Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking
Hiking Difficulty
Narrow Trail next to Cliff in Tiger Leaping Gorge
The Gorge consists of three parts: the Upper Gorge, Middle Gorge, and Lower Gorge. The first two are popular for hiking. The Upper Gorge (mainly from Qiaotou to Tina's) is easier than the Middle Gorge.
Tiger Leaping Gorge hike is generally suitable for energetic and adventurous hikers and people with a good level of fitness. The longer/steeper hikes are not recommended for kids less than 10 years old or those without hiking experience.
Hiking along Tiger Leaping Gorge isn't very strenuous except for the initial climb along a series of switchbacks called the 28 Bends. This track starts winding steeply upward. So, for about an hour, you would really be using your hamstrings and calf muscles.
The inns and hotels along the way make the trek comfortable as well. You can hike at your pace and fully take advantage of the accommodation. However, it is strenuous if you attempt to do the whole thing too quickly.
Trails are well-marked and easy to follow. But the path gets very narrow in some places, you have to walk carefully next to a cliff face. The path isn't really dangerous, except in the rainy season (June to September). Rain makes the rocks slippery and the path muddy. Walking over a fresh rockslide might be tricky.
The medical facilities in the immediate area are poor. Even in Lijiang, the hospital staff may not speak English. Foreigners may have a difficult time getting medical treatment. Therefore, a local English-speaking guide is helpful to suggest the best route, to enhance an unforgettable experience and, most importantly, to stand by for emergencies.
Recommended Hiking Routes
Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Map
Tiger Leaping Gorge has all the features of the best hikes: adventurous routes, fantastic views, flora and fauna, appealing geological features like waterfalls, and isolation.
Though it is one of China's popular trails, it is not crowded. Mainly foreigners take the high path above the river. Few Chinese tourists hike it, so it isn't a crowded tourist pathway. According to what some people say, you may pass about one group of hikers each hour.
The most popular 2-day trek is from Qiaotou to Tina's Guesthouse. It's called the High Trail Hike. It winds around 22 km (14 miles) at half way up Haba Snow Mountain, usually taking 1½ days. When hiking, you will encounter Naxi people grazing their goats, climb up the strenuous 28 bends, and have majestic gorge views from the rooftop terrace of Halfway Guesthouse.
If you prefer a shorter trek of 1 day, the route from 14-Km Point to Tina's Guesthouse with a stopover at Halfway Guesthouse is recommended. It is a shortened version of the High Trail. Unlike other villages along the High Trail with poor roads, the 14-Km Point (at the foot of the Haba Snow Mountain) can be accessed by driving via well-paved roads. You can still enjoy the essential highlights, like snow mountains, waterfalls, and the panorama of the Gorge, in a limited time.
A half-day hike from Tina's Guesthouse to the Middle Gorge unveils the beauty of the Gorge from the bottom with a quick, steep climb. Middle Gorge trails along the roaring Jinsha River offer unbeaten views of the sheer gorge. Climbing the steep Sky Ladder is a true adventure.
Other recommended Yunnan hiking tours that may interest you:
The 2-Day "High Trail" Hike
This hike is based on the very popular but most challenging route. The most challenging part is the 28 Bends. You have to zigzag your way up for 500+ meters (1,650+ feet) of elevation along the twisting, steep bends. You might feel out of breath when ascending. After that, most of the rest is relatively level or descending with few climbs, and you will be rewarded with heavenly scenery.
In peak season (October), local folks might offer a horse ride to the top of 28 bends.
If you want to stop your hike part way through, you just need to hike to the closest village and find a local truck back to the town. Due to the language barrier, you may want to