Huangling National Forest Park | Ziwuling Forest Hidden Gem, Yellow Emperor Culture Forest Wellness Destination
Huangling National Forest Park is located in Diantou Town, Huangling County, Yan'an City, in the heart of the Ziwuling Mountains. It is divided into two main areas: the North Area (Xuanyuan Wellness Valley) and the South Area (Zi'e Temple). With a high forest coverage rate, it combines Yellow Emperor culture, ancient temple history, canyon forests, and mountain activities. It is cool and pleasant in summer, making it a well-known destination in northern Shaanxi for summer retreats, educational tours, and leisure vacations.
Core highlights
North Area: Xuanyuan Wellness Valley
Dan Lake: Legend says it is where the Yellow Emperor refined elixirs and drew water. The lake is green and clear, with quiet lakeside trails. The bridge on the lake is a popular photo spot.
Ten-Mile Pine Corridor: Ancient pines tower overhead, with shaded trails winding through. Walking here, you can feel the cool breeze and enjoy the abundant negative oxygen ions—a natural forest oxygen bar. Along the way, you will find waterfalls, popular treehouses, and flower swings, which are great for photos.
Feilong Ridge: The highest point of the scenic area at 1,547m. Climb up to overlook the vast forest. You can see the sunrise on clear days, and after rain, a sea of clouds often rolls over the mountains, offering a vast and magnificent view.
Forest Camp: Features a lawn camping area, water activities, a petting zoo, and a nature science museum. It is suitable for family trips and team building, and outdoor camping activities can be held here.
Treetop Walk: An elevated walkway above the trees that allows you to walk among the canopy and immerse yourself in the primitive forest landscape.
South Area: Zi'e Temple Area
Zi'e Temple: An ancient temple with a history of 1,000 years, nestled in the cliffs. The temple is built along the mountain, with a well-organized layout of the main hall and zen courtyards. It has a long history of incense and deep cultural heritage.
Suspended Plank Road: Built along the cliffs of Zi'e Mountain, it is over 2,000 meters long and winds along the cliff. There is also a section of glass plank road. Walking on it to overlook the valley is thrilling and expansive, making it a landmark experience in the South Area.
Zi'e Temple Grottoes: Cliff grotto remains. The ancient carvings have weathered the years, creating a quiet and simple atmosphere suitable for meditation and reflection.
Hushan Slide: A mountain slide over 300 meters long. You can experience the fun of a fast descent and save energy. This is an optional paid activity.
Recommended routes
Full-day loop (6–7 hours, visiting both North and South areas)
Enter from the North Entrance > Dan Lake > Ten-Mile Pine Corridor > Treetop Walk > Feilong Ridge > Take the sightseeing bus to the South Area > Zi'e Temple > Suspended Plank Road > Hushan Slide to descend.
Half-day easy route (3–4 hours, choose one)
Visit only the North Area Wellness Valley, stroll through the pine forest and lakeside, and climb to the top of Feilong Ridge; or visit only the South Area to explore the ancient temple and walk the Suspended Plank Road. The intensity is moderate, suitable for short trips.
Combined area tour
Huangling National Forest Park > Mausoleum of the Yellow Emperor. You can plan a one-day root-seeking tour in Huangling, combining cultural ancestor worship with forest leisure for a complementary itinerary.
Practical information
Tickets: Full ticket including sightseeing bus is about CNY 112. After 2:00 PM, you can purchase a half-ticket to visit only one area. Students and seniors enjoy discounts according to policy. Private vehicles are limited to 50 per day, with a vehicle fee of CNY 50/day. This must be handled offline, and a safety liability agreement must be signed. Ticket prices are subject to the scenic area's daily announcement.
Opening hours: Peak season (Apr–Oct) 8:30 AM–6:00 PM, ticket sales stop at 5:00 PM. Off-peak season (Nov–Mar) 9:00 AM–5:30 PM, ticket sales stop at 4:00 PM. Full tickets stop selling at 2:00 PM.
Transportation: For self-driving, navigate to "Huangling National Forest Park". It is about 40 minutes from Huangling County, 2 hours from Xi'an, and 2.5 hours from Yan'an. The scenic area has a parking lot. If arriving by public transport, you will need to transfer to reach the scenic area; self-driving is recommended.
Travel tips
1. Mountain temperatures are lower than in the city. Even in summer, it is recommended to bring a light jacket. There are many hiking sections, so wear non-slip sports shoes and bring drinking water and sun protection.
2. The Suspended Plank Road is on a cliff; visitors with a fear of heights should assess their ability. Open flames are strictly prohibited in the forest area. Camping and barbecues are only allowed in designated campsites.
3. The best time to visit is June–August for summer retreats, and September–October for autumn colors, when the forest is vibrant and the scenery is beautiful.
4. The scenic area is very large, and the North and South areas are far apart. Be sure to take the scenic sightseeing bus; do not walk between the two areas to save energy.
5. There are few dining options in the scenic area. You can bring simple meals. For accommodation, you can choose the Wellness Valley hotel in the scenic area or return to Huangling County.