Recommended hike in Jiuzhaigou over 2 days

Question

I am planning to be Jiuzhaigou at the end of October. We are planning to spend 2 full days in Jiuzhaigou. I was wondering how best to do a combination of hike and buses for the 2 days. I was reading that it is suggested that we start with Rize valley and some of Shuzheng lake for Day 1 and Zechawa Valley + rest of Shuzheng Valley for Day 2. Does anyone have a itineary for these 2 days ?

Thanks

Answer

Jiuzhaigou National Park is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site with crystal-clear lakes, waterfalls, and lush forests. Visiting in late October offers beautiful autumn colors, although it can be chilly in the mornings and evenings. With two full days, you can cover the main valleys using a combination of the park’s shuttle buses and short hikes.

The park has three main valleys: Rize, Shuzheng, and Zechawa. The shuttle buses connect all the main entrances and scenic spots, but walking along certain trails allows for a more immersive experience. Here is a suggested 2-day itinerary:

Day 1: Rize Valley and Shuzheng Valley

Start early at the park entrance near Shuzheng Village and take the shuttle bus to Rize Valley.
Walk along Rize Valley to see highlights such as Five Flower Lake, Five Color Pond, and Swan Lake. These areas have well-marked trails and boardwalks, perfect for gentle hiking.
After exploring Rize Valley, take the shuttle back towards Shuzheng Valley.
Walk around the Shuzheng Lakes area, including Shuzheng Lake and Nuorilang Waterfall, which is one of the park’s most famous spots. You can do short hikes around these areas depending on your energy levels.
Return to Shuzheng Village in the late afternoon for rest and dinner.

Day 2: Zechawa Valley and remaining Shuzheng areas

Take the shuttle bus to Zechawa Valley early in the morning.
Hike along Zechawa Valley, visiting Long Lake, Mirror Lake, and Pearl Shoal Waterfall. This valley is longer and less crowded, so allow more time for walking and photography.
Return to Shuzheng Valley in the afternoon to cover any areas you missed on Day 1, such as Shuzheng Lakes or smaller side trails.
Finish the day by taking the shuttle back to the main entrance or your hotel area.

Additional tips:

Wear comfortable hiking shoes as some trails are uneven or slippery in autumn.
Bring layers to adjust for cool mornings and warmer afternoons.
Start early each day to avoid crowds and maximize daylight, as the park closes around 5 PM in October.
Carry water and light snacks; there are small food stands near main lakes but limited options deeper in the valleys.
Follow shuttle bus schedules carefully, as buses run on a loop with stops at major scenic areas.

This combination of shuttle buses and moderate hiking allows you to see the park’s highlights without rushing, giving you a balance of exploration and relaxation over the two days.

Recommended hike in Jiuzhaigou over 2 days

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