Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon

Hi everybody, it is not clear to me if to descend to the Grand Canyon and walking along the river (about 3 km.walk) it is absolutely necessary to cross the glass bridge or if the stairs/path starts before the bridge. Thanks

Visiting Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon and walking along the river does not necessarily require crossing the Glass Bridge. The path to the canyon floor begins separately from the bridge area, so visitors who prefer to avoid the bridge can still access the riverwalk and enjoy the canyon scenery.

1. Access to the Grand Canyon Path

The Grand Canyon walking path starts near the main entrance area of the Grand Canyon scenic zone. From there, visitors descend via stairs, ramps, and designated trails down to the canyon floor. The route is well-marked and provides clear access to the river and surrounding viewpoints without needing to step onto the Glass Bridge.

  • The main descent begins at the canyon entrance, not at the bridge.
  • Stairs and paths are maintained and safe, offering scenic views along the way.
  • Walking the path to the river is approximately 3 km one way, allowing a complete canyon experience.

2. Glass Bridge Details

The Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge is a separate attraction that spans across the canyon, offering panoramic views from above. Access to the bridge is optional and requires a separate ticket. Visitors can enjoy the bridge without descending to the canyon floor, and vice versa.

  • Bridge ticket is not required for the riverwalk.
  • Bridge crossing is optional for those who want the aerial view experience.
  • Both the bridge and canyon floor trails can be visited independently.

3. Tips for Visiting

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the canyon path involves stairs and uneven terrain.
  • Plan for about 2–3 hours to walk along the 3 km river path, plus additional time for photos and rest.
  • Check weather conditions before visiting, as the canyon path can be slippery after rain.
  • If you wish, you can combine the riverwalk and bridge visit for a complete experience, but crossing the bridge is not mandatory.

In summary, you can fully enjoy the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon riverwalk without stepping onto the Glass Bridge. The stairs and paths to the canyon floor start before reaching the bridge area, making the bridge an optional highlight rather than a necessary part of the route.


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