Through the Throat of Gansu: Hiking Pingshan Grand Canyon
A compact canyon hike through Gansu’s geologic heart—close-up geology, steppe cultures, and bold photo opportunities.
The canyon opens like a held breath. One moment the landscape outside the bus is an austere sweep of steppe and scrub; the next, you are unclipped into a throat of stone where walls tower, light fractures through narrow skylines, and the air tastes faintly of mineral and sun-baked soil. At Pingshan Grand Canyon—an often-overlooked counterpoint to the more famous Zhangye Danxia—the geology is less rainbow stripes and more the slow, patient carving of deep cuts: sheer cliffs, amphitheaters of layered beds, sandy terraces and a surprising trace of forest that softens the canyon’s edges.
Trail Wisdom
Hydrate for the steppe
Bring at least 2 liters of water and top up in Zhangye before you go—there are limited services inside the canyon.
Sturdy footwear matters
Choose hiking shoes with good traction for loose scree and short steep sections that can be slippery.
Time your light
Plan your hike for early morning or late afternoon for the best light and cooler temperatures.
Respect local culture
If visiting a Yugur tent or grotto, ask before photographing people or sacred sites and follow your guide’s lead.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Horse Hoof Temple Grottoes—small carved niches and a local legend worth a pause
- •Adjacent viewpoints that link hikes to Zhangye Danxia for panoramic color contrasts
Wildlife
marmots, steppe birds and raptors (e.g., larks, eagles)
Conservation Note
The canyon’s fragile desert and semi-arid ecosystems recover slowly; stay on trails, pack out waste and use local guides who support conservation efforts.
Zhangye (historically Ganzhou) was a key garrison and Silk Road hub during the Han dynasty; the canyon sits within this ancient corridor.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: wildflower pockets, mild temperatures, birdwatching
Challenges: muddy trails after thaw, variable temps, windy days
Spring brings fresh growth and comfortable hiking temps but expect occasional muddy sections and brisk winds.
summer
Best for: long daylight hours, photography in soft evening light, combining with Danxia visits
Challenges: hot midday sun, strong UV exposure, limited shade
Summer offers long days ideal for extended tours, but avoid midday heat and carry ample sun protection.
fall
Best for: crisp air and clear skies, autumn colors, photography
Challenges: cool nights, shorter days, more visitors on holiday weekends
Autumn is arguably the best season—golden light, comfortable temps and clear visibility for long views.
winter
Best for: dramatic low-light scenes, snow-highlighted rock textures, fewer crowds
Challenges: cold temps, possible icy patches, limited services
Winter turns the canyon into a stark, photographic landscape; come prepared for cold and brief daylight windows.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Hiking shoes with grippy soleEssential
Provides traction on loose scree and uneven canyon steps.
2–3 L hydration bladder or bottlesEssential
Keeps you hydrated in dry, sun-exposed conditions.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)Essential
Essential for long hours in open, reflective rock environments.
Light layering system (fleece + wind shell)
Handles temperature swings between canyon shade and sunlit ridgelines.
Common Questions
How long is the hike through Pingshan Grand Canyon?
Most guided hikes take 2–3 hours and cover roughly 4–6 km with intermittent elevation change; exact distance depends on route choices.
Do I need a permit or a guide to hike here?
Permits are managed locally; many visitors go with licensed guides who handle access and logistics—recommended for first-time visitors.
How do I get to Pingshan Grand Canyon from Zhangye?
The canyon is typically reached by a 30–90 minute drive from central Zhangye depending on exact trailhead; private tours include transport.
Are there restrooms and food on the trail?
Facilities are limited; bring snacks and water and plan to eat in Zhangye or with a tour group who can provide a packed lunch.
Is the canyon suitable for children or older hikers?
Families and older hikers can enjoy the route with reasonable fitness, but narrow or steep sections may be challenging—consider a shorter guided route.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect steppe birds and small mammals—watch for marmots and raptors; larger mammals are rare in the canyon itself.
What to Pack
Hiking shoes (traction on scree); 2–3 L water (dry climate); sun protection (hat and sunscreen); layered jacket (temperature swings).
Did You Know
Zhangye, historically called Ganzhou, served as a major garrison on the Silk Road during the Han dynasty and helped secure trade along the Hexi Corridor.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a local guide for logistics; carry cash for small village purchases; avoid midday heat in summer; combine with a Danxia visit for varied scenery.
Local Flavor
Pause for a simple lunch in a Yugur tent to taste local lamb dishes and tea; the Yugur community adds living cultural context to canyon visits.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest base: Zhangye city. Typical visit length: half-day (2–3 hour hike). Best light: sunrise or late afternoon. Services: limited at trailhead—bring water and snacks.
Sustainability Note
Support local guides, stay on designated trails, and avoid single-use plastics; the canyon’s arid soils and sparse vegetation are slow to recover from disturbance.