Mount Baishishan National Geopark, located in Laiyuan County, Hebei Province, China, is a breathtaking natural wonder that offers a stunning blend of geological marvels, scenic beauty, and outdoor adventure. Approximately 200 kilometers southwest of Beijing, this geopark is part of the Taihang Mountain range and is renowned for its white marble peaks, dramatic cliffs, and lush vegetation. Designated as a national 5A-level scenic area and a UNESCO World Geopark, Baishishan is a perfect destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking an escape from urban life. Here’s a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your visit.
A Travel Guide to Mount Baishishan National Geopark
Why Visit Mount Baishishan?
Baishishan, or “White Stone Mountain,” gets its name from the white marble and dolomite that dominate its landscape, formed over a billion years ago. The geopark spans over 64 square kilometers and features more than 100 peaks, with the highest reaching 2,096 meters above sea level. Often compared to Anhui’s famous Mount Huangshan and nicknamed “Little Huangshan,” Baishishan boasts unique peak forest landforms, cascading waterfalls, and serene springs like Jumayuan. Its glass skywalks, perched on cliffs at dizzying heights, add a thrilling modern twist to the natural splendor, making it a standout destination in northern China.
How to Get There
Mount Baishishan is accessible from Beijing, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway:
From Beijing:
By Bus: Take a highway bus from Beijing’s Yongdingmen Bus Station to Laiyuan County. The journey takes about 2.5–3 hours and costs around 50–70 CNY. From Laiyuan, local buses or taxis can take you to the geopark’s entrance in about 30 minutes (15 kilometers south of the county).
By Train: High-speed trains from Beijing West Station to Baoding take about 1 hour, followed by a 2-hour bus or taxi ride to Laiyuan. Total travel time is roughly 3.5–4 hours.
By Car: Drive southwest from Beijing via the G5 Beijing-Kunming Expressway. The trip takes about 3 hours, offering flexibility and scenic views along the way.
Park Entrances:
The geopark has two main gates: the East Gate (primary entrance) and the West Gate. The East Gate is more developed with better facilities and is recommended for first-time visitors.
Best Time to Visit
Year-Round Appeal: Baishishan is stunning in all seasons—spring brings mountain flowers, summer offers cool temperatures and cloud seas, autumn showcases vibrant red birches, and winter blankets the peaks in snow.
Optimal Season: Summer (June to August) is ideal, with average temperatures around 21°C, providing a refreshing escape from the heat of nearby cities. Autumn (September to October) is equally popular for its colorful foliage.
Weather Tip: Check forecasts, as fog and clouds enhance the mystical atmosphere but can reduce visibility on the glass skywalks.
What to Do
Hiking and Scenic Trails: The park features well-maintained trails ranging from moderate to challenging. The main trail to the summit (via cable car and footpaths) takes 4–7 hours round-trip, depending on your pace. Highlights include bizarre rock formations, steep cliffs, and panoramic views of Laiyuan County, with distant glimpses of Langya Mountain and Mount Wutai on clear days.
Glass Skywalks: Baishishan boasts China’s highest glass skywalk, built at 1,900 meters above sea level on a cliff edge. The transparent platform offers heart-pounding views of the abyss below and is a must for thrill-seekers. A second glass path near the summit adds to the adventure.
Cable Car Rides: Two cableways ease the ascent: one takes you halfway up, and another reaches near the observation deck. A round-trip ticket costs about 100–120 CNY, saving energy for exploring the peak.
Explore Shipuxia Canyon and Jumayuan Springs: Beyond the main peak, visit Shipuxia Canyon for its waterfalls and rugged beauty, or the tectonic Jumayuan Springs, known as “Pearl Springs” for their bubbling waters.
Photography and Sunrise/Sunset: The sea of clouds at dawn or dusk, framed by jagged peaks, is a photographer’s dream. Plan an early morning or late afternoon visit for the best light.
Practical Information
Admission: Entry to the geopark costs around 115 CNY (prices may vary seasonally), with additional fees for cable cars and shuttle buses within the park.
Hours: Typically 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though times adjust seasonally. Check the official website or local updates before your trip.
Duration: A full day (6–8 hours) is recommended to explore the main attractions, though overnight stays allow for a more relaxed pace.
What to Bring
Clothing: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layered clothing, as temperatures drop at higher elevations. Bring a light jacket even in summer.
Supplies: Pack water and snacks, as food options inside the park are limited and expensive. Sunscreen and a hat are useful for summer visits.
Gear: A camera or smartphone for photos (the glass skywalk’s effect is hard to capture but worth trying), and a small backpack for essentials.
Where to Stay
In Laiyuan County: Budget hotels and guesthouses like Laiyuan Qingliang Villa offer affordable stays 15–20 minutes from the park (50–200 CNY per night).
Near the Park: Limited accommodations exist near the East Gate, such as basic lodges or the Baishishan Hot Spring Resort, ideal for relaxation after hiking.
Camping: Not officially permitted within the geopark, but nearby areas like Xianrenyu Scenic Area (17 km west) offer camping options.
Dining Tips
Local Eats: In Laiyuan, try Hebei specialties like donkey burgers (驴肉火烧) or handmade noodles. Restaurants near the park are scarce, so eat beforehand or bring your own food.
Park Vendors: Snacks and drinks are available but overpriced—expect to pay double or triple the usual cost.
Additional Tips
Preparation: Start early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends or holidays. The glass skywalk can get busy, so time your visit for quieter moments.
Safety: Stick to marked paths, especially near cliffs and the glass platforms. The trails can be steep and slippery after rain.
Combine Your Trip: Pair Baishishan with nearby attractions like the Wulonggou Great Wall (a less touristy section) or Xianrenyu Canyon for a multi-day adventure.
Final Thoughts
Mount Baishishan National Geopark is a hidden gem in Hebei, blending rugged natural beauty with adrenaline-pumping features like its glass skywalks. Whether you’re hiking through its peak forests, gazing into the abyss, or simply soaking in the tranquility of its springs and canyons, Baishishan offers an unforgettable experience. Plan ahead, embrace the journey, and let this northern Chinese marvel captivate you.
Happy exploring!
