Wansheng Shizicao 2 Day Road Trip Itinerary
Wansheng Shizicao Highlights
Escape the sweltering heat of Chongqing with a refreshing retreat to Shizicao, a haven nestled at 1,974 meters atop Shiziding Peak.
Unlike the hot and humid Chongqing summer, Shizicao offers a cool respite, making it a favorite destination for locals seeking to escape the heat, hike, camp, and soak in breathtaking views.
Join our guide for an unforgettable journey from Chongqing to Wansheng District, just 101 kilometers from the city center. Wind through the scenic Black Mountain Valley Canyon, trek the invigorating Shizicao trail, and conquer Shiziding Peak for a rewarding adventure in nature’s embrace.
Wansheng Shizicao Road Trip Map
What to Pack for the Shizicao Road Trip
- Hiking Shoes: Gear up for Jinfo Mountain’s rugged trails with sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes. Choose waterproof, breathable designs to handle diverse terrains and keep your feet comfortable on long treks.
- Snacks and Food: While charming farmstay restaurants along the route offer authentic local dishes, pack your favorite snacks and easy-to-prepare meals for campsite picnics or quick bites on the trail. Energy bars, dried fruits, and instant noodles are perfect for convenience and fuel.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during extended hikes with a durable, reusable water bottle. Refillable and lightweight options are ideal for keeping you refreshed.
- Sunscreen and Sun Protection: Protect yourself from intense, high-altitude UV rays with broad-spectrum sunscreen. Pair it with a lightweight sun-protective jacket or a wide-brimmed hat to shield your skin and face from sunburn.
- Bug Repellent: Ward off insects on the mountain trails with a reliable bug repellent. Be cautious of snakes and other wildlife, and consider long sleeves or pants for added protection.
Day 1: Chongqing to Black Mountain Valley Canyon
The Black Mountain Valley Canyon, also known as Heishangu (黑山谷), is a cherished 5A-rated scenic destination adored by locals. This breathtaking canyon offers a unique trekking experience, especially refreshing during Chongqing’s hot and humid summer.
As you traverse the shaded trails, you’ll encounter sparkling streams and cascading water, creating a cool and invigorating journey through nature’s embrace.
Begin your adventure from Chongqing and head to the South Gate of the Black Mountain Valley Canyon Scenic Area. Convenient paid parking is available on-site for a hassle-free start to your exploration.
Budget
| 💰Ticket | ¥80 – 85/person |
| 🚌 Sightseeing Bus | ¥30/person |
| 🚍 Transit Bus | ¥20/person |
| 🚠 Cableway | ¥30/person |
💰 Scenic Area Ticket: Save on entry fees by checking for discounted tickets on the Meituan app or Douyin.Browse these platforms before your trip to snag the best deals and keep more cash for your adventure.
🚌 Sightseeing Bus: The sightseeing bus, which covers a 6-kilometer route, is optional. Seasoned hikers may prefer to skip the bus and trek this scenic stretch to reach the core attractions. If you’d rather save energy exploring, the shuttle bus offers a convenient ride to the main sights.
🚍 Transit Bus: The transit bus provides a handy connection between the South Gate and North Gate, making it easy to navigate the park.
🚠 Cableway: For visitors entering via the North Gate, the cableway is a recommended way to enjoy stunning views with ease. If you’re starting from the South Gate, the trail is a gentle downhill walk, allowing you to skip the cableway and save money while capturing Instagram-worthy shots of the majestic Shennong Waterfall.
Closed - Open Sunday at 8:30 AM
Operating Hours
| Monday | 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Thursday | 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Friday | 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Saturday | 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Sunday | 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
Information is provided for reference only. Do not solely rely on this.
Entering Black Mountain Valley Canyon from the South Gate?
Follow this scenic walking route to experience the park’s highlights at a leisurely pace, with mostly downhill trails to keep your journey comfortable and enjoyable:
- South Gate Entrance
- Cableway (Optional)
- Shennong Waterfall
- Fengxiang Bridge
- Lingbotai
- Chongqing-Guizhou Rift Valley (Canyon)
- Eagle Claw Rock
- Chongqing-Guizhou Border Bridge
- Shaking Bridge (De’er Huang Qiao)
- Preying Tree
- Diecui Pavilion
- South Gate Sightseeing Bus Station
The Black Mountain Valley Canyon trail spans 12 kilometers, split evenly between a 6-kilometer core sightseeing section packed with stunning landmarks and a 6-kilometer stretch covered by the optional sightseeing bus.
Plan to spend around 4 hours exploring this scenic route, immersing yourself in the canyon’s refreshing beauty.
For adventure seekers, Black Mountain Valley Canyon offers an exhilarating water rafting experience along a 2-kilometer river course, taking approximately 40 minutes to complete. Priced at ¥158 per person, the rafting package includes park entry and the sightseeing bus, making it a thrilling and convenient addition to your visit.
Next up, we’ll drive to Heishan County.
Heishan County lies at the intersection of Nanchuan’s Jinshan County, home to the popular Route 178 road trip, and Guizhou’s Tongzi County, where the stunning Shuiyinhe Grand Canyon awaits.
Its prime location makes Heishan County an ideal base for exploring a variety of nearby road trip destinations, offering endless opportunities for adventure.
Settle into Heishan County for your stay and take time to wander its charming streets. Visit the historic Jingye Temple, originally built in 1889, to soak in its cultural and architectural beauty.
Cruise around town to discover a range of local restaurants serving authentic flavors, then find cozy accommodation for a restful night, readying you for the next leg of your journey.
Day 2: Shicizao and Shizi Peak
Start your day with a hearty breakfast in Heishan County before setting off for Shizicao Hiking Trail.
Your drive follows the breathtaking Route 866, a scenic country road carved along the cliffs of Black Mountain Valley.
Exercise caution on this winding, narrow road, as some sections are tight, and passing oncoming traffic can be tricky.
Avoid traveling during rainy weather due to the risk of falling rocks.
The reward?
Stunning vistas that make every turn unforgettable.
As you trace the serene Liyu River, you’ll find plenty of pull-off points to park and soak in the spectacular scenery.
Feel free to launch your drone for jaw-dropping aerial shots or stop at charming farm stay restaurants for a taste of local cuisine.
Numerous hiking trails branch off along the route, inviting spontaneous exploration.
With pleasantly cool temperatures and high oxygen levels, you can roll down your windows, skip the AC, and breathe in the crisp, refreshing air.
After a 23-kilometer drive, you’ll reach the starting point of the Shizicao Hiking Trail. This 8-kilometer, beginner-friendly trail features a gentle 300-meter elevation gain, winding through dirt paths and stone steps.
The first half meanders through shaded bamboo forests, offering respite from the sun, while the latter half opens to expansive, unobstructed views.
Allow about 3 hours to reach Shizi Peak, the trail’s crown at 1,900 meters—the highest point in the former Chongqing area.
The panoramic views from the summit are nothing short of spectacular.
Note that there are no supply stations along the trail, so pack ample water and snacks tostay energized.
If hiking the full 8 kilometers isn’t for you, you can drive directly to Shizi Peak for a quicker visit to the summit’s awe-inspiring lookout.
Continuing Your Road Trip After Shizicao
After soaking in the breathtaking views and serene trails of Shizicao, you have several exciting options to continue your adventure or wrap up your road trip.
Return to Chongqing to complete your journey, or extend your exploration with these captivating destinations.
Drive to Nanchuan’s scenic Route 178, a stunning loop around the majestic Golden Buddha Mountain, offering dramatic landscapes and winding roads perfect for road trip enthusiasts.
Head to Shuiyinhe Grand Canyon in Tongzi County for an adrenaline-pumping water rafting experience, where you can navigate thrilling rapids amidst spectacular scenery.
For those eager to explore more of the region, consider driving to Qijiang District to wander the charming streets of Dongxi Ancient Town, steeped in history and culture.
Alternatively, venture to Gaomiaoba for a magical stargazing and camping experience under a pristine night sky, perfect for nature lovers and dreamers alike.
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