Yunnan, China · Cliff paths above a roaring river
Tiger Leaping Gorge
China's classic two-day gorge trek
Distance
~22 km (High Trail)
Duration
2 days / 1 night
Max elevation
~2,670 m (28 Bends)
Difficulty
Moderate · one steep climb
One of the deepest gorges on earth, where the Jinsha River thunders between the 5,000m walls of Jade Dragon and Haba Snow Mountains. The High Trail traces terraced villages and waterfalls along the cliffs — a spectacular, very doable two-day walk that is the introduction to trekking in China for many travelers.
Along the trailStops
Qiaotou
The trailhead town where the High Trail begins its climb away from the road.
The 28 Bends
The trek's toughest stretch — a switchbacking climb to the highest point with huge gorge views.
Tea Horse Guesthouse
The classic overnight stop, with a terrace looking straight across at the snow peaks.
Tiger Leaping Stone
The narrow point where a tiger is said to have leapt the river, reached by steps down to the water.
Walnut Garden
The lower village where the trail ends and buses return to Lijiang or Shangri-La.
Good to knowTips
- Inns along the way will hold big bags; hike with just a day’s kit
- Rainy season (Jun–Aug) brings rockfall — confirm the road before you go
- Altitude is mild, but pack a rain jacket, torch and enough water
Getting thereLogistics
Reach Qiaotou by bus from Lijiang (~2.5 hrs) or Shangri-La. The High Trail is walked north-to-south; guesthouses are frequent so no camping gear is needed. A small entrance fee applies.
Next hike
Yubeng Village Trek