Geological Epic·Traces of Time: Longtan Grand Canyon

Longtan Grand Canyon·UNESCO Global Geopark

【Introduction】
Located 70km north of Luoyang City in Xin'an County, Longtan Grand Canyon is the core scenic area of Daimeishan UNESCO Global Geopark. Formed 1.2 billion years ago from ancient marine sedimentation, it’s renowned for its purple-red quartz sandstone cliffs and hailed as "China’s No.1 Zhang Valley." Highlights include geological wonders like "Water Flowing Uphill" and "Stone Book of Heaven," with cascading waterfalls, emerald pools, and a unique blend of northern grandeur and southern elegance.

🕘【Opening Hours】
Peak season (Mar–Nov): 7:30–17:30 (last entry 16:00)
Off-season (Dec–Feb): 8:00–17:00 (last entry 15:30)
Recommended visit: 4–5 hours (7km walking trail)

⚠️ Key Notes:
- Trails may close temporarily after heavy rain.
- Ice cleats required during winter icefalls (Jan–Feb).

💴【Ticket Prices】
Full ticket: ¥90 (includes canyon + Geology Museum)
Discount ticket: ¥45 (students/seniors over 60/children above 1.4m)

Optional transport passes:
- Shuttle bus (one-way): ¥20 (Entrance → Wulong Pool)
- Feilong Cableway: ¥50 (Tianbei Station → Longyin Valley, panoramic views)
*From July 2024: Real-name ticketing; ID required for entry.

⛺【Activities】
1. Classic Hiking Route (downstream, east to west)
• Geological Wonders (2.5hrs):
Wulong Pool → "Water Flowing Uphill" (optical illusion) → "Stone Book of Heaven" (wave-patterned cliffs) → Arhat Cliff (800 natural stone Buddhas) → Yinlian Waterfall (best in summer).
• Waterfront Section (1.5hrs):
Black Dragon Pool (bamboo rafting, ¥20/person) → Reed Beach (photo spot) → Feilong Glass Walkway (200m high, ¥30 extra).

2. Unique Experiences
• Geology Museum (free, exhibits 1.2-billion-year-old stromatolites).
• Stargazing Camping (summer-only at Longyin Valley, booking required).

3. Safety Tips
• Avoid deep pools during rainy season.
• No running on glass walkway; children must be accompanied.

🚌【Transport】
• Self-drive (recommended):
Luoyang → Lianhuo Expressway (Xin'an exit) → S246 → Shijing Town (1.5hrs).
Parking: ¥10/day (arrive before 9am in peak season).
• Public transport:
Luoyang Bus Station → Xin'an County bus (¥12) → Shijing Town bus (¥8) → Taxi to park (¥15).
*2024 update: Direct tourist shuttle from Luoyang Longmen Station (weekends, ¥35/way).

👉【Itinerary Ideas】
1. Nearby Attractions
• Day trip: Longtan Canyon + Jingzixian Mountain (Yellow River viewpoint, 20min drive).
• 2-day tour:
Day 1: Longtan Canyon + overnight stay
Day 2: Daimeishan Geopark (alpine meadows + flower terraces).

2. Accommodation
• Inside park: Longtan Villa (¥300/night, canyon views).
• Budget: Shijing Town homestays (¥80/person, try Yellow River carp).

🧡【Packing List】
Essentials:
- Non-slip water shoes | Quick-dry clothes | Backpack
Recommended:
- Foldable trekking poles | Waterproof phone case
Seasonal:
• Summer: Mosquito repellent + UV sleeves (strong reflections).
• Winter: Gloves + ice cleats.

📌 Pro Tips:
• Families: Take shuttle to Longyin Valley first for downhill hike.
• Photographers: Visit after rain—canyon turns crimson with misty vistas.