Tiger Leaping Gorge Trek
One of Asia's greatest hikes — two days through one of the world's deepest gorges
Intro
Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the world's deepest river gorges — 3,900 metres from the Jinsha River (upper Yangtze) to the summit of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain above. The 2-day high trail from Qiaotou to Walnut Grove is one of the finest hikes in Asia: a well-marked path traversing the gorge wall with extraordinary views, punctuated by guesthouses where trekkers stay overnight. The gorge gets its name from a legend that a tiger once leaped across the narrowest point — a rock in the river below. The hike is self-guided, moderate in difficulty, and requires no technical equipment.
Best Time to Visit
April to June and September to November. Avoid July–August monsoon season.
Highlights
Getting There
From Lijiang: bus or minibus to Qiaotou (2 hours, ¥25) — the starting point of the high trail. Return from Walnut Grove to Lijiang by minibus.
Tickets & Entry
Practical Tips
Start the high trail early on day one — the first section is the steepest. Guesthouses at the halfway point (28 Bends Guesthouse area) are basic but good. Trekking poles helpful. Best months: April–June and September–November. Avoid July–August (rain and landslide risk).
More in Yunnan
Lijiang Old Town
The living heart of Lijiang Old Town — cobblestone lanes, Naxi music, and mountain streams at dawn
Dali Old Town & Erhai Lake
Dali Old Town and Erhai Lake — Bai minority culture beside a mountain lake
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
The snow-capped peak that defines the Lijiang skyline — cable car to 4,506 metres
FAQ
Quick Facts
| Best time | April to June and September to November. Avoid July–August monsoon season. |