Dalaoling National Forest Park (大老岭国家森林公园) is situated at the junction of Yiling District, Zigui County, and Xingshan County in Yichang City, Hubei Province, covering a total area of 6,667 hectares. Nestled in the eastern extension of the Daba Mountains, it boasts a remarkable 98% forest coverage. Positioned in the transitional zone between subtropical and warm temperate climates, the park features predominant vegetation including evergreen broad-leaved forests and a mix of evergreen and deciduous broad-leaved forests.
The park is home to an impressive botanical diversity, with 1,003 species from 500 genera across 140 families of vascular plants. Additionally, Dalaoling supports a rich fauna, hosting 418 species of terrestrial and aquatic vertebrates, along with a diverse insect population comprising 2,412 species from 1,499 genera across 269 families. The park offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, biodiversity, and ecological significance, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Dalaoling National Forest Park
- Vlog about Dalaoling National Forest Park
- Other Attractions in Yichang Suburbs
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | 80 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.30 – 17.00 |
Location and Transportation
Dalaoling National Forest Park is situated at the confluence of Yiling District, Zigui County, and Xingshan County in Yichang City, Hubei Province. Located on the northern bank of the Xiling Gorge in the Three Gorges region along the Yangtze River, the park is 108 kilometers away from the central urban area of Yichang and 50 kilometers from the Three Gorges Dam.
It shares its southern border with Dengcun Township, known as the “First Township of Organic Tea in China,” is adjacent to the hometown of Qu Yuan to the west, and faces the hometown of Lady Zhaojun to the north.
Unfortunately, because of the remote location of Dalaoling National Forest Park, there is no convenient public transport leading there. You have to drive yourself or sign up for a guided tour.
Highlights of Dalaoling National Forest Park
Zhucao Valley Pristine Forest
The Zhucao Valley Pristine Forest Scenic Area within the park covers over 50,000 acres of untouched forest. This area showcases rare plant communities like the Gongtong, Shuiqing, and Yinqiao trees alongside precious species like Baixin, Lianxiang, and Zijing, making it the park’s most diverse and concentrated region in terms of species richness.
Tianzhu Mountain
The Three Gorges Summit (Tianzhu Mountain) Scenic Area, located in the Tianzhu Mountain section of the park, features prominent attractions such as Tianzhu Peak, Lover’s Lake, Duige Tree, Hehuan Stone, Kiss Farewell Stone, and Regret the Sky Stone. This area stands out as the park’s highest and most majestic region, offering unique features like the thousand-year-old Lover’s Tree and an unparalleled vantage point to witness breathtaking sunrise views from the summit.
Medicinal King Creek
Nestled in the Gujiangping section of the park, the Medicinal King Creek Scenic Area seamlessly blends streams, waterfalls, forests, and vines. The nearly 1-kilometer-long waterfall cascade features multiple tiers, with the majestic Huxiao Falls plummeting 100 meters straight down, creating a spectacular display of splashing waves. Legend has it that Shennong, the Divine Farmer, once gathered medicinal herbs in this area, hence the name Medicinal King Creek.
Botanical Garden
Adjacent to the park’s reception center, the Botanical Garden Scenic Area comprises rare plant zones, ornamental plant areas, and natural plant regions. The garden houses nationally protected rare tree species such as Gongtong, Golden Money Pine, Qinling Fir, Maidenhair Fir, Seven Sons Flower, and Zhongemu. The upper part of the Botanical Garden features an artificial lake named Xiamachi. This lake enhances the scenic beauty of the area, providing a serene and picturesque setting within Dalaoling National Forest Park.
