Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
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Geology
The park’s famous sandstone pillars are the result of thousands of years of erosion by water draining through crevices. This water becomes acidic when it comes in contact with the carbon dioxide in the surrounding soil and atmosphere. Over time, this water drains through the fractures in the rock, gradually dissolving it away into the unique and iconic karst landscape seen today in Zhangjiajie. This process is further assisted by the expansion of ice within the crevices over Zhiangjiajie's chilly winter months, creating ever-wider spaces between the karst pillars.One of the park’s most famous sandstone pillars is the 1,080-meter tall Southern Sky Column. It was recently renamed ‘Avatar Hallelujah Mountain’ as it is believed that it inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the movie, Avatar. Tianzi Mountain, also known as ‘Heaven Son Peak’, is the park’s highest mountain and from its peak you get a fantastic view over the clouds which hover below.

Forest Microclimate
One of Zhangjiajie’s most notable features is the unique forest microclimate which is exhibited in the region, being naturally cool in summer and warm in winter under the forest canopy. The result is a diverse array of both flora and fauna which have adapted to these conditions, including dawn redwood, maidenhair trees, Chinese yews, dove trees, and Chinese tulip trees. Whilst exploring the beautiful forests of Zhangjiajie you may also have the opportunity to spot giant salamanders, rhesus monkeys, and a huge array of birds which comprise its faunal residents.Visiting Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park offers a network of trails which traverse the region, allowing you to explore the natural vegetation and impressive karst features, while spotting wildlife along the way. There is everything from short strolls to full day hikes to suit all trekking experience levels, and the further you venture from the cable car stations or bus stops, the fewer crowds you will encounter, offering a greater appreciation of this natural wonder. Some of the major highlights which should not be missed include braving the precarious 'First Bridge of the World' and 'Bridge of the Immortals', as well as walking along the picturesque 'Golden Whip Stream'.The park is extensive and has been divided into five scenic areas - Huangshizhai, Golden Whip Stream, Yaozizhai, Yuanjiajie, and Yangjiajie – which all offer their own, unique highlights. While most of the trails are well signposted, maps are available from the nearby village, and there are public transport options to get you in and out from your start/end point. It is best to decide on one area to explore in depth each day, allowing you the time to access some of the park's less explored areas.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park has a museum within its boundaries which details the geology of the park, the fauna and flora it houses, as well as the ethnic culture which is indigenous to the region. There are also displays of Chinese landscape painting depicting the forest park, which has been a popular subject for artists since ancient times.
When to Visit
The forest park is open year round (except for one week in February when routine maintenance is conducted) but it is best to avoid the peak winter months of December through to February when temperatures plummet and there is often snow cover. The roads can be very slippery during this period and frost is common. The peak tourist period is during China’s holiday months of July and August when domestic tourists descend, as well as Labor Day (May 1-3) and National Day (October 1-7). If you want to enjoy the park without the crowds and be able to easily access the cable cars, then avoid visiting during these periods. April through to June sees more rain and high humidity which result in a heavy fog layered over the mountains and a mysterious atmosphere, while September and October see cooler temperatures and fewer other visitors.Accommodations
Budget
$ 7.00 USDZhangjiajie Destination Youth Hostel
$ 5.00 USDBajie Youth Hostel
$ 21 USDZhangjiajie Bajie Ren Wen Hotel
$ 24 USDTuniu Hotel Wulingyuan Biaozhimen Branch
$ 12 USDZhangjiajie Meet Themed Inn
$ 23 USDJinjiang Inn Zhangjiajie Ziwu Branch
Comfortable
Luxurious
$ 89 USDQinghe Jinjiang International Hotel
$ 82 USDHotel Pullman Zhangjiajie
$ 56 USDSunshine Hotel & Resort Zhangjiajie
$ 44 USDDa Cheng Shanshui Hotel
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Author: Pip Strickland. Last updated: Apr 29, 2015
Pictures of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park











