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Mae Wang National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Chiang Mai, Thailand

Mae Wang National Park

Mae Wang National Park is a vibrant natural area in northern Thailand offering lush forests, scenic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, ideal for hiking and nature exploration.

National Park166,000 acres4+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

166,000 acres

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Mae Wang National Park

Mae Wang National Park is a vibrant natural area in northern Thailand offering lush forests, scenic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, ideal for hiking and nature exploration.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Mae Wang National Park is located in Chiang Mai Province in northern Thailand, covering part of the mountainous Western Thanon Thong Chai Range. The park features a varied landscape of dense evergreen and deciduous forests, rolling hills, and rushing streams. Its topography is characterized by steep slopes, providing habitat for diverse flora and fauna including wild boar, gibbons, barking deer, and a variety of bird species. The park is especially noted for its pristine waterfalls, such as Mae Wang Waterfall, which is a popular destination for visitors looking to enjoy cool, clear waters and natural pools. The region also supports several ethnic hill tribe communities, whose traditional lifestyles add cultural interest to the natural surroundings. Outdoor enthusiasts can access numerous hiking trails that range from easy nature walks to more challenging treks ascending the higher ridges. Key landmarks include viewpoints overlooking the Mae Wang River valley and several caves. Visitors are drawn by the tranquil forest environment and opportunities to experience northern Thailand’s unique biodiversity. The park is a well-regarded site for bird watching, trekking, and immersing oneself in the natural environment while learning about local conservation efforts.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Mae Wang National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Cascading Serenity at Wachirathan Waterfall★ 8.4⌖ 13 miPhotography
Wachirathan Waterfall

Cascading Serenity at Wachirathan Waterfall

Explore Wachirathan Waterfall in Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai. Ideal for photography and nature lovers, this stunning waterfall offers vibrant rainbows and rich biodiversity. Enjoy easy access via a drive-in route.

PhotographyView Details→
Golden Views at Doi Suthep★ 8.5⌖ 14 miHiking
Doi Suthep

Golden Views at Doi Suthep

Explore Doi Suthep near Chiang Mai, featuring moderate hiking trails and a historical temple. Enjoy biking and waterfall adventures in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. Best visited from November to February.

Waterfalls and Wonder in Doi Suthep-Pui★ 8.7⌖ 15 miHiking
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park

Waterfalls and Wonder in Doi Suthep-Pui

Explore the waterfalls and cultural sites of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. Enjoy diverse wildlife and stunning views on various hiking trails while visiting the sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Just a short drive from Chiang Mai, this spot is perfect for adventure seekers.

Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail: A Waterfall Wonderland★ 7.9⌖ 17 miHiking
Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail

Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail: A Waterfall Wonderland

Explore Pha Dok Sieo Nature Trail near Chiang Mai. This scenic trail offers views of a waterfall and is ideal for hiking and cultural exploration. Visit between June and November for the vibrant wildflowers.

Majestic Peaks of Doi Pha Ngam★ 8.3⌖ 17 miHiking
Doi Pha Ngam ผาแง่ม

Majestic Peaks of Doi Pha Ngam

Explore Doi Pha Ngam in Chiang Mai for a scenic hike to a summit with panoramic views. With moderate difficulty, it's ideal for hiking and bird watching. Visit during November to February for the best experience.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Mae Wang Waterfall – a multi-tiered waterfall with natural pools ideal for swimming✦ Ethnic hill tribe villages offering cultural insights and local crafts✦ Scenic viewpoints with panoramic views of the Mae Wang River valley✦ Dense evergreen forest providing habitat for gibbons and diverse bird species
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Mae Wang National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Mae Wang National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Mae Wang National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Mae Wang National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Mae Wang National Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Mae Wang National Park
Park Recreation

Cultural Tours

Available in Mae Wang National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Mae Wang National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee; no permit required for day use; small fees may apply for camping or guided tours.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Mae Wang National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Mae Wang Waterfall Campground

Located close to the main waterfall, offering basic facilities like restrooms and sheltered areas.

Hill Tribe Village Campsite

Near local Karen villages, providing an immersive cultural camping experience with minimal facilities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Mae Wang National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

San Pa Tong
⌖ 10.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

San Pa Tong, Chiang Mai

A peaceful town surrounded by rolling hills, fertile farmland, and cultural sites, offering a gentle blend of nature exploration and rural Thai charm.

November to FebruaryExplore Town
Hang Dong
⌖ 11.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hang Dong, Chiang Mai Province

A peaceful town offering natural beauty and outdoor activities with a cultural touch, perfect for explorers seeking gentle hiking, biking, and river adventures near Chiang Mai.

November to FebruaryExplore Town
Mae Chan
⌖ 14.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mae Chan, Chiang Rai Province

A quiet northern Thai town offering gateway access to lush hills, rivers, and tribal villages, perfect for travelers seeking authentic outdoor and cultural adventures.

November to FebruaryExplore Town
Chiang Mai
⌖ 17.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chiang Mai, Thailand

A vibrant cultural hub offering a gateway to exploration and outdoor adventures in the mountainous region of Northern Thailand.

November to FebruaryExplore Town
Mueang Chiang Rai
⌖ 18.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai Province

A vibrant gateway to Northern Thailand’s mountainous landscapes, combining cultural richness with outdoor adventure in a tropical, subtropical setting.

November to FebruaryExplore Town
Chiang Mai
⌖ 23.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai

A cultural hub with access to lush mountains, cascading waterfalls, and rich biodiversity, perfect for adventure seekers.

November to FebruaryExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Mae Wang National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.