Heihe National Forest Park (黑河国家森林公园), located in the heart of the Qinling Mountains and at the source of the Heihe River in Xi’an, is a natural wonderland that encompasses four major scenic areas and over 100 attractions. This park is characterized by its dense forests, magnificent rock formations, and picturesque landscapes, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
One of the park’s most notable features is its diverse and rich wildlife. It is home to rare and protected species such as giant pandas, golden snub-nosed monkeys, and Tibetan antelopes, offering a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Heihe National Forest Park is not only a sanctuary for wildlife but also a repository of cultural and historical significance. The park is dotted with cultural landmarks, including the Tanglu Ancient Trail, a historic route that was once used for trade and transportation, and Diaoyutai, a serene fishing platform. These sites provide insights into the region’s cultural heritage and history, adding a layer of depth to the park’s attractions.
The forest conservation efforts within the park are commendable, with an impressive forest cover of 94%. The area around Houzhanzi and Tiejia trees features over 800 hectares of pristine forest, while the stretch between the Dadong River, Fuziling, and the main course of the Heihe River boasts around 1,600 hectares of untouched wilderness, primarily dominated by pine, oak, alder, and birch trees. The forested landscapes are so dense that they resemble an endless sea of green, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the enchanting beauty of nature.
Water is another focal point of the park’s charm, with its rivers, ponds, and waterfalls adding to the overall allure. Heihe National Forest Park’s water features include enchanting pools, cascading waterfalls, clear mountain springs like Juwengtan Waterfall, Yueyutan Lake, and the serene Yuanyintan Lake. The 50-meter-drop Juwengtan Waterfall, with its grandeur and power, rivals the famous Hukou Waterfall at the Shaanxi-Shanxi border. Black Dragon Pool, on the other hand, offers a tranquil and harmonious blend of natural and cultural beauty, while the clear and lovely Moon Crescent Pool, as its name suggests, is a delight to behold. Qingyan Feixue appears like a cascade of flying snowflakes, resonating with the roar of thunder, and Yuexutan features vibrant green waters, infusing the landscape with life and energy.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Heihe National Forest Park
- Vlog about Heihe National Forest Park
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Sceneries near Xi’an
Basic Information
| Website | http://heihepark.com/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | Over 3 hours |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 18.00; Last adimission: 17.00 |
| Ticket Price | 50 RMB (1st March – 30th November) 30 RMB (1st December – 28th February) |
| Best Time to Visit | March – May and September – November |
| Telephone Number | 0086-029-85102008 |
Location and Transportation
Heihe National Forest Park is located to the south of Xi’an, the capital city of Shaanxi Province in China. Specifically, it is situated in the Zhouzhi County, which is about 100 kilometers from the downtown area of Xi’an. The park covers an area of 58 square kilometers and is surrounded by beautiful mountains, including the Qinling Mountains to the south and the Taihang Mountains to the north.
To get there, you can take coach at Xi’an Fengqinglu Bus Station (丰庆路汽车站) and then transfer to shuttle to Shuiyuan Shanzhuang (水苑山庄) at Zhouzhi County. The whole journey takes about 3 hours.
Highlights of Heihe National Forest Park
Heihe River
Heihe River runs through Heihe National Forest Park. The river is approximately 110 km long and provides a crucial water source for the park’s ecosystem. It also serves as a popular attraction for visitors, who can enjoy the scenic beauty of the flowing water and the lush surrounding forests. Tourists can explore the river by hiking along its banks or taking a boat ride, while nature enthusiasts can observe a diverse range of wildlife, including fish, birds, and aquatic animals.
Scenic Landscapes
Heihe National Forest Park is a picturesque destination with stunning natural landscapes. The park is nestled in the Qilian Mountains and features lush forests, steep mountains, and flowing streams. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery, which includes rugged cliffs, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls.
Hiking Trails
Heihe National Forest Park offers a network of hiking trails that wind through the lush forests and steep mountains of the area. These trails are designed for hikers of all levels, from beginners to experienced adventurers, and lead visitors to scenic spots, such as the Black Dragon Pool, the Holy Mountain Temple, and the Fairy Waterfall. Along the way, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, observe a diverse range of flora and fauna, and experience the tranquility of nature.
Vlog about Heihe National Forest Park
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Avoid Holidays: It’s advisable to avoid visiting during holidays as the park tends to be overcrowded. Additionally, accidents on the road are more common during peak times. If possible, plan your visit for weekdays or non-holiday periods to enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Limited Attractions: The park’s attractions may not be as impressive as expected. The “One-line Sky” at the entrance and the waterfall at the end are highlights, but the journey between them mainly consists of long mountain roads. Overall, the park may not be worth the visit for some visitors.
Consider Driving Around the Reservoir: If you’re still interested in exploring, consider driving around the Heihe Reservoir area. The scenic mountain roads offer picturesque views, and you can enjoy the natural beauty without entering the main park area.
Safety Precautions on Rainy Days: If you visit on a rainy day, prioritize safety. Be cautious of potential landslides and falling rocks, especially along steep slopes or cliff edges. It’s essential to stay on designated paths and follow any safety instructions provided by park staff.
