Wulingyuan Scenic Area
Zhangjiajie is where the floating mountains from the movie *Avatar* come to life. Gigantic sandstone peaks rise straight up from the green forest. The Avatar Mountains form the most famous part of the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Wulingyuan Scenic Area. This vast nature park consists of several distinct areas, each with its own unique character. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is home to the iconic sandstone pillars that served as the inspiration for the floating mountains. Here you’ll find famous viewpoints such as Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain, where thousands of rock formations rise from a sea of greenery and mist.
Tianmen Mountain and Heaven's Gate
In addition to the famous Avatar Mountains, the region offers much more natural beauty. Tianmen Mountain features spectacular cliff trails, a glass skywalk, and the impressive Heaven’s Gate arch. The Yangjiajie Scenic Area is known for its rougher mountain landscapes and less-visited hiking trails, while Golden Whip Stream takes visitors through a green valley alongside crystal-clear water and towering rock walls. Together, these areas form a diverse destination where panoramic views, adventurous hikes, and unspoiled nature alternate.
Hiking trails and spectacular cable cars
Throughout this vast area—where you can easily spend several days—there are many spectacular hiking trails; the elevation changes are bridged by dozens of cable cars, escalators, and shuttle buses. One of the most iconic structures is the Bailong Elevator, a massive outdoor glass elevator that ascends directly up a cliff over 300 meters high.