Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon & Glass Bridge Travel Tips
By Martina
Having explored the breathtaking landscapes of this incredible region multiple times, including crossing the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge several times, I’m thrilled to share my insights on navigating this truly awe-inspiring marvel. Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon offers a unique blend of natural beauty and exhilarating experiences that you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
When is the Best Time to Experience Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon?
The best times to visit Zhangjiajie in general are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is mild, and the canyon is at its most beautiful, with lush greenery and vibrant colors. Specifically, mid-September to early November offers peak clarity, dry, mild conditions, and fewer storms, which is ideal for bridge views. March to April mornings after rain can also offer a photogenic mist, though views from the bridge might be obscured.
Avoid visiting during the rainy season (May to August), as the trails can get slippery, and fog and rain can obscure views, even shutting down the bridge due to safety risks.
From my experience, timing is everything in Zhangjiajie. The Grand Canyon is beautiful year-round, but you’ll want to avoid China’s major holidays like National Holiday (October 1-7) and Labor Day (around May 1st). These times see immense crowds, making the experience less enjoyable.
The Glass Bridge Experience in Zhangjiajie
Imagine standing 300 meters high, with nothing but a layer of crystal-clear glass between you and the canyon floor. The bridge is nearly half a kilometer long (430m), floating between the cliffs. It’s not just a walk—it’s a heart-pounding experience.
Preparing for the Glass Bridge Experience
- Bags and Personal Items: This is crucial! Only small bags (wallets, waist packs, handbags) and cell phones are allowed on the bridge. Leave, backpacks, and other larger items in a locker.
- Shoe Covers: Before stepping onto the glass bridge, all visitors are required to put on shoe covers. These are usually provided at the entrance.
- Safety First: The glass panels are triple-layered and were tested to withstand a 25-ton truck. It’s safe and engineered to withstand earthquakes, so focus on the views, not the cracks!
- Motion Sickness: For motion-sick travelers, standing on the frosted strips at the bridge edges can help; looking directly through the clear panes can be dizzying.
Thrilling Activities in Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
After walking across the bridge, you can choose to take an elevator down to the canyon floor, or for an added rush, opt for the zipline! You can also choose the bungee jumping from the bridge itself, which is touted as the world’s highest bungee jump.
You can also explore sections like “A Strip of Sky,” a narrow gorge near the entrance, and the “Sky Ladder,” a wooden walkway along steep cliffs that truly feels like it’s leading to the heavens.
Another popular option involves entering through the southwest gate, crossing the Glass Bridge, and then touring the canyon downhill, exiting through the north gate, which typically takes about 2.5-3 hours for the full loop including attractions like the slide elevator and a bamboo raft ride on Rainbow Lake.
Route Options for Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
A typical visit to the Grand Canyon can take 2-4 hours. While some try to combine it with Zhangjiajie National Forest Park or Tianmen Mountain in one day, I advise against it if you want to truly soak it all in. Give the Grand Canyon its dedicated time. Here are the recommended routes:
Route A: Grand Canyon Hiking Only
Path: Visitor Center → One Line Sky (a narrow sky strip) → Rainbow Plaza → Touch Cave → Shenquan Lake Boat Ride → Scenic Area Exit (Canyon Exit)
This route lets you immerse yourself in the canyon’s natural beauty—the misty walls, dense vegetation, and the serenity of the descending paths and boat ride are genuinely peaceful. It’s great for travelers who want to enjoy the landscape without facing heights.
Route B: Canyon + Glass Bridge (Adventure Combined)
Path: Visitor Center → Glass Bridge → Glass Plank Road → Optional thrill activities (zip line, One Line Sky slide, VR experiences, elevators) → Rainbow Plaza → Touch Cave → Shenquan Lake Boat Ride → Scenic Area Exit (Canyon)
This route lets you conquer the world-famous glass bridge, walk along cliffside glass planks, try heart-pumping activities, and end with a peaceful boat ride. It’s thrilling in just the right ways and offers a rich variety in about 3–4 hours.
Where to Stay in Zhangjiajie
- Wulingyuan Scenic Area: If you want to stay close to the Grand Canyon and Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Wulingyuan Scenic Area has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Staying here, especially near the east gate, can cut commuting time significantly.
- Zhangjiajie City: Staying in Zhangjiajie City is also a great option, with easy access to the Grand Canyon and other attractions like Tianmen Mountain. It offers a wider range of dining and shopping options, though it requires a longer commute to the Grand Canyon.