Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon (平山湖大峡谷), located in Zhangye, stands as one of China’s most accessible natural wonders, blending awe-inspiring landscapes, canyon adventures, geological exploration, ethnic cultures, and off-road driving into a comprehensive tourist destination. Praised by “China Geographic” magazine and renowned geologists and tourists alike, it has been likened to “Zhangjiajie” and “the Grand Canyon of Colorado.” Here, deep and precipitous gorges cut through uniquely shaped peaks, showcasing nature’s unparalleled artistry in vibrant hues, creating breathtaking mountainous panoramas.
Located at an altitude ranging from 1500 to 2550 meters, Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon is characterized by its red sedimentary geology, formed over 180 to 240 million years during the Jurassic to Tertiary periods. The terrain features deep ravines sculpted by flowing water, with gentle slopes and sandy mountains forming the backdrop.
The canyon’s irregular shape, snaking roughly east-west, is a result of millions of years of crustal uplift and erosion processes, including wind, water, and chemical weathering. During erosion, harder rock layers on the plateau formed the raised areas between the valleys, while the active erosion within the valleys created plateau-shaped mountains or fortress-like hills. The rocks in the canyon vary in color from red to other shades, with clear stratification displaying fossilized remains from various geological epochs, making it a “living geological history textbook.”
Historically, Pingshan Lake was an important gateway for ancient minority ethnic groups entering the Hexi Corridor and a significant barrier against invasions for the Han Chinese. It lies at the crossroads of agricultural and nomadic cultures, with a diverse population including Mongolian, Han, Tu, and Yugur ethnicities. The predominant culture is Mongolian, evident in their bilingual fluency in Mongolian and Chinese, and their preservation of traditional customs in etiquette, folk dances, attire, cuisine, crafts, and religious beliefs.
Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon offers visitors not only spectacular natural landscapes but also a rich cultural tapestry woven from centuries of interaction between diverse ethnic groups. It serves as a testament to both geological evolution and cultural diversity, inviting exploration and appreciation from visitors seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 130 RMB including admission and sightseeing bus 328 RMB including admission, sightseeing bus, camel riding, canyon exploration vehicle, and camel-drawn carriage. |
| Opening Hours | 7.30 – 20.30; Last admission: 18.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0936-8830066 |
Location and Transportation
Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon is located in Menggu Township, Ganzhou District, Zhangye City, Gansu Province, approximately 60 kilometers from Zhangye city center. To get there, you can go to the first floor of Zhangye Power Building (Electric Power International Travel Agency) and take a commuter bus. Buses depart at 8:30 and 14:30 daily, with a ticket price of 14 RMB. The journey takes about half an hour, and return buses depart around 16:40, arriving back at the entrance of Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon Scenic Area.
