Tiger Leaping Gorge high trail

A footpath high above the Jinsha River, between two snow peaks over 5,300 m, through Naxi hamlets.

• Treks and routes
• Landscapes

What you do there

• Hike the high trail from Qiaotou over two days, about 15 km then 5 km, including the 28 Bends.
• Stay in trekkers' guesthouses on the trail; they are poorly heated.
• Climb down to the river at Tiger Leaping Stone.

When to go

1. Jan
2. Feb
3. Mar
4. Apr
5. May
6. Jun
7. Jul
8. Aug
9. Sep
10. Oct
11. Nov
12. Dec

September and October are the best months to walk; April and May are good too. June to August is the rainy season, and heavy rain can close the trail.

Getting there and permits

Getting there

Trailhead at Qiaotou, roughly a 1.5-2 hour drive (about 86 km) from Lijiang Ancient Town.

Permits

Not confirmed in our sources; ask the operator before you book.

Tickets

An entrance fee applies at the gorge; ask the operator for the current price.

Altitude

The high trail tops out at about 2,670 m. The gorge runs between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (5,596 m) and Haba Snow Mountain (5,396 m).

Page last checked 28 Oct 2026. Rules, roads and ticketing change; the operator confirms everything before you book.