My Life's Checklist Completed: A Complete Guide to the 2-Day, 1-Night Tiger Leaping Gorge High Trail

Some places make your heart race just by thinking about them. Tiger Leaping Gorge is exactly that kind of place.

When I stood on the mountain ridge at 2,600 meters elevation, with the roaring Jinsha River below and the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain across from me, I suddenly understood—some paths aren't meant to be walked; they're meant to be remembered.

This article is dedicated to everyone who has Tiger Leaping Gorge on their life's bucket list.

Why Tiger Leaping Gorge?

If you ask me which place in Yunnan is most worth hiking, I'll answer without hesitation: the Tiger Leaping Gorge High Trail.

This isn't just an ordinary hiking route. It's been named one of the "World's Top 10 Classic Hiking Trails" by National Geographic. But to me, it feels more like a conversation with yourself. Two days, one night, 28 switchbacks, 400 meters of elevation gain, countless moments when you want to give up—when you push through and stand at the summit of the mountains, you'll find that every drop of sweat was worth it.

10 Questions About the Tiger Leaping Gorge High Trail: Everything You Need to Know

1. How Do I Choose a Hiking Route?

The Tiger Leaping Gorge High Trail has two main classic routes:

Route 1 (Recommended): Naxi Family Inn → 28 Switchbacks → Tea Horse Inn → Halfway Inn → Longdong Waterfall → Teacher Zhang's Inn - Duration: 2 days, 1 night - Difficulty: Moderate to challenging - Highlights: A complete Tiger Leaping Gorge experience, including the most challenging 28 Switchbacks

Route 2: Tea Horse Inn → Halfway Inn → Longdong Waterfall → Teacher Zhang's Inn - Duration: 1 day - Difficulty: Relatively easier - Suitable for: Those short on time or with limited stamina

Important Note: Tea Horse Inn, Halfway Inn, and Teacher Zhang's Inn all have roads leading down the mountain, meaning you can exit at any of these points. Additionally, the "Daydreaming Rock" has been temporarily closed since May, and the two sky ladders are also inaccessible. If you want to visit Daydreaming Rock, keep an eye out for future updates.

2. How Do I Get to Tiger Leaping Gorge?

From Lijiang, there are two options:

Bus (45 RMB/person) - Boarding point: Lijiang Bus Station - Departure times: 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM daily, two trips - Drop-off point: Naxi Family Inn (requires purchasing a Tiger Leaping Gorge entrance ticket)

Shared Van (80 RMB/person) - Boarding point: Your hotel entrance (the driver will contact you the night before to confirm the time) - Drop-off point: Naxi Family Inn or Tea Horse Inn - Return trips: 3:30 PM and 5:30 PM, two departures - Advantage: No need to purchase a Tiger Leaping Gorge entrance ticket

3. Will I Get Altitude Sickness at Tiger Leaping Gorge?

The elevation at Tiger Leaping Gorge ranges from 2,300 to 2,600 meters. For most people, this height won't cause noticeable altitude sickness. However, if you're coming directly from a low-altitude area, it's recommended to spend a day or two in Lijiang to acclimatize first.

My Experience: I did get winded climbing the 28 Switchbacks, but that's normal physical exertion. As long as you slow down your pace and regulate your breathing, it passes quickly. There are also exit points along the way—if you're really uncomfortable, you can find a nearby inn to ask for help.

4. What Are the Trail Conditions Like? Which Section Is the Hardest?

In the absence of extreme weather, regular hiking shoes are sufficient. However, note that most of the trail is quite narrow—some sections are only wide enough for one person to pass. In these areas, it's best not to take photos, chat, or make large movements.

The Hardest Section: The 28 Switchbacks - Distance: Approximately 2.8 kilometers - Elevation gain: 400 meters - Time required: 2–3 hours - Characteristics: Continuous uphill climbing, easy to get winded

Once you're past the 28 Switchbacks, the rest is much more comfortable. The second day is mostly downhill, where your hiking shoes' "braking" ability really comes in handy.

Anti-Getting-Lost Guide: Most forks in the trail have signs, but some aren't very obvious. I've included a few photos of confusing intersections—save them before you set out.

5. Are There Small Animals on the Mountain?

Yes! And you'll be accompanied by a "swarm of flies" throughout your hike, especially near food and accommodation. Occasionally, a small spider might crawl onto your table or bed—don't panic, just brush it away. That's mountain life.

The cutest animals are the sheep. They're either eating grass or being fed grass. But remember: try not to interact with animals on dangerous sections of the trail. Keep your distance and prioritize safety.

You're unlikely to encounter large animals. There are no cats or dogs, but plenty of birds.

6. Is There Food on the Mountain?

Water and Drinks: There are many small shops along the trail selling bottled water, cola, sports drinks, fruit, grilled sausages, and ice cream.

Full Meals: Tea Horse Inn and Halfway Inn are popular dining spots. For my first day, I ate a packed lunch on the trail and treated myself to a proper dinner at the inn in the evening.

7. Can I Hike Alone?

While you'll see quite a few solo hikers on the trail, I still recommend going with a companion. Tiger Leaping Gorge retains its original, rugged conditions. Having a buddy to look out for each other significantly increases your safety.

8. Is Accommodation Easy to Book?

Accommodation at Tiger Leaping Gorge is now quite well-developed. You won't have trouble finding a place to stay, even if you book on arrival—except for the famous inns.

If you absolutely must stay at a popular inn like Halfway, book at least a week in advance, even during the off-season, or keep refreshing to snag a cancellation.

9. What Gear Do I Need to Bring?

Essential Checklist: - Waterproof jacket or rain poncho (regardless of season) - Hiking shoes (highly recommended) - Quick-dry clothing or spare T-shirts - Long pants (for insect protection and sun protection) - Neck gaiter (more practical than a sun mask, and protects the back of your neck) - Hiking socks or thick cotton socks (ideally one pair per day) - Sunscreen, arm sleeves, wide-brimmed hat - Trekking poles (single or double, depending on preference) - Knee braces (for downhill sections)

Special Reminder: The stretch from Longdong Waterfall to Teacher Zhang's Inn involves several hours of continuous downhill hiking. Your shoes' grip and ankle support are crucial here. Sneakers simply won't stop on the gravel paths—don't ask me how I know.

10. Can I Ride a Horse?

Yes, but only on the 28 Switchbacks section, which is a continuous uphill climb. Horse services are not available beyond that. However, I recommend walking the entire route yourself—the path you choose only truly counts when every step is planted on the ground.

Day 1: Peak from the Start, the Trial of the 28 Switchbacks

Setting Out from Naxi Family Inn

I chose to start from Naxi Family Inn rather than Tea Horse Inn because I didn't want to miss the 28 Switchbacks. Skipping that section felt like it would leave a regret.

Right from the start, it was a continuous 400-meter climb, and I was definitely winded. I'd walk a bit, then stop to rest. Gradually, I found my rhythm, and my breaks became less frequent.

I met a fellow hiker on the trail who said he'd seen me in Lijiang. Fate works in mysterious ways—that's one of the joys of hiking. You meet different people and share your stories.

Climbing Tips

1. Acclimatize to the altitude: Even though 2,670 meters isn't extremely high, if you're coming from low elevation, take it slow
2. Control your breathing: Try not to talk while walking; use short, small steps instead of stopping to rest
3. Use your trekking poles: Adjust them to a height that provides good leverage
4. Hydrate in small sips: Don't gulp down large amounts of water

Once you're past the 28 Switchbacks, the trail gets much easier. The joy of hardship first, reward later—that's what it's all about.

Tea Horse Inn: A Mark of Time

The walls are covered with outdoor flags and signatures, instantly transporting you back to another era. According to records, Tea Horse Inn was built in 2012, but it feels older. Back then, young people were busy on weekends, and their motto was "painful but happy."

They'd catch a bus after work on Friday, and by Monday, they'd be back in the same wrinkled clothes, rushing from the train station to the office. The idea of "just go" actually has roots much further back in time.

I bought a drink at Tea Horse Inn and sat at an outdoor table. A wave of indescribable emotion suddenly washed over me. I realized that life needs to accumulate to a certain point before such moments of rawness arrive so suddenly.

Halfway Inn: The Spiritual Home of Hikers

Surviving the 28 Switchbacks feels like passing Tiger Leaping Gorge's test. From here on, it's time to enjoy the mountain scenery.

The "Kill-You-Dead" Balcony: No one wants to miss this balcony. While other inns have balconies too, Halfway's exudes a unique hiking spirit—freedom and confidence.

The World-Famous Toilet: It's genuinely the most scenic toilet I've ever used. But it's also home to quite a few "friends," so I recommend wearing a mask.

The Coffee Room: If I had the time, I'd stay an extra day just to spend it in the coffee room. When you get tired of sitting, step out onto the balcony to stretch.

Dinner: Watermelon, organic vegetables, and chicken—all arranged. I especially recommend Halfway Inn's rice noodles. They're cheap and delicious—you won't find them at this price back in Lijiang.

Day 2: Sleep Well, Eat Well, and Continue Onward

Longdong Waterfall: A Little Surprise on the Trail

From Halfway, it takes about 45–60 minutes to reach Longdong Waterfall. The trail is relatively easy, with almost no uphill climbing, though there's quite a bit of loose gravel.

In early June, the waterfall's water volume isn't huge, but the joy of being near the water and playing in it is real. My pants were soaked through, and my shoes filled with water, but I was still happy—until I discovered huge blisters on my feet after descending.

Friendly Reminder: The trail is narrow in some spots. When you encounter other hikers, proactively give way to avoid a "traffic jam."

The Downhill Challenge

From Longdong Waterfall to Teacher Zhang's Inn, it's downhill all the way. My feet were constantly "braking," and the soles felt like they were on fire. It took about 2–2.5 hours.

There were many small branching paths along the way. My brother was feeling brave and led me onto a cliff edge. The guy behind us thought for two seconds and said, "I'd rather stay alive," so we climbed back up. These hilarious moments are the ones you remember for a lifetime.

Teacher Zhang's Inn: The Moment of Farewell

Since Daydreaming Rock was temporarily inaccessible, we arrived at Teacher Zhang's Inn before 2:00 PM. The café had a Scandinavian design—floor-to-ceiling glass windows, a fireplace, and tables and chairs arranged in a circle. Hanging in the center were numerous team flags, layering history and the present together.

If you're not in a hurry to return to Lijiang, you can have lunch before checking out and catch the 5:30 PM van.

Final Thoughts: The Mountains Love You

In 2008, it came with me to Yunnan, and we completed the Yubeng trek together. After that, we traveled to many places, and it accompanied and protected me, bringing me home safely.

In 2025, it chose to say goodbye to me in Yunnan. Twenty minutes short of our destination, it had given everything it had. So let's say a proper farewell—thank you for all the years of companionship.

Tiger Leaping Gorge was the birthday gift I wanted to give myself this year, and also a special memory I wanted to create for my family. I treasure these moments. I hope that in the future, our group will be bigger, and we can spend several days in the mountains.

On the first day, my brother said, "Deep down, I just want to get out of here quickly." When we left, I didn't ask. After 30 hours of valley life, the words you want to say are enough for yourself.

But this grown man went back to the inn and told our mom, "I knew it would be tough, but I didn't expect it to be this tough." Ha! No matter how old you get, you're still a child around your parents.

If life doesn't show you love, go climb a mountain—the mountains love you.

Final Tips: - If you only have one day, you can take the short route from Tea Horse Inn to Teacher Zhang's Inn - After the hike, remember to treat yourself to a good meal - Bring plenty of sunscreen—the UV rays on the mountain are no joke - Most importantly: enjoy the journey, don't just focus on the destination

Tiger Leaping Gorge is waiting for you. Are you ready?