Huashan Plank Walk is a steep and narrow wooden path installed on the Eastern side of the South Peak of Mount Hua, located near the city of Huayin in Shaanxi Province, about 75 mi (120 km) east of Xi'an. Tourists who dare set foot on Huashan Plank Walk have only a safety rail to clench to while walking over the abyss. The height of the wooden plank walk is about 985 feet (300 m). The best time to try this challenging activity is during spring and fall, which offer the best weather conditions for hiking.
Huashan Plank Walk is about 328 ft (100 m) long, however, hikers have to walk back the same way they came, so they actually walk the trail two times. The last section of the walk is the steepest and the most dangerous. If you are not ready for the extreme experience, you can walk just on the first section, which leads to the west of Chaoyuan Caves. This trail in this section is 2 feet wide (0.7 m) and guarded with an iron fence, so it's quite safe.
The last section of Huashan Plank Walk is just 1 ft (0.3 m) wide, and hikers have to move slowly with their face against the cliff. People with a height under 4.9 ft (1.5 m) and over the age of 55 are not allowed on Huashan Plank Walk. Visitors can get to the dangerous attraction by a cable car to the West Peak and a 30-minute hike up to South Peak.
Practical info
When is the best time of year to hike Huashan Plank Walk?
The ideal time to hike the plank walk is during the months of September to October and April to May when the weather is pleasant and not too cold or hot. During peak tourist seasons, such as Chinese New Year and National Day, the trail may become crowded with increased wait times for cable cars and longer lines. Planning ahead and scheduling accordingly could make for a better, well-planned experience. Show more
Where is Huashan Plank Walk located?
The Huashan Plank Walk can be found in Mount Hua, close to Huayin, Shaanxi Province, China. To get to the path, hike from the West Peak after taking a cable car. After reaching the South Peak, continue on the trail to the East Peak, which houses the plank walk. Visiting this incredible location provides an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of China while getting in touch with your adventurous side. Show more
What are the safety measures provided to walkers?
To safeguard hikers from falling, a harness is provided to walk attached to a steel cable anchored to the cliff face. On the lower portion of the trail, there are wider planks, better guardrails, and a stable set-up. Furthermore, emergency platforms are positioned at specific intervals equipped with safety nets and oxygen to ensure the safety of walkers. Although the path is secure, a sense of adventure should not overshadow the importance of following the guidelines and ensuring safety at all times. Show more
How high up is the plank walk from the ground level?
The frightening, yet thrilling Huashan Plank Walk resides at an elevation of about 985 feet (300 meters) over the ground level. As you traverse the path, you experience a bird’s eye view of the beautiful landscape of China. Proper hiking footwear, with excellent grip, is highly recommended to help avoid accidents on the trail. Caution should always be exercised as safety should never be overlooked, especially when walking on planks less than 1 foot wide in places, which can be daunting, even for experienced walkers. Show more
Who are not allowed on Huashan Plank Walk?
For safety purposes, individuals below 4.9 feet (1.5 meters) in height and above the age of 55 are not permitted to hike the plank walk. This is an essential rule to prevent accidents because of the height and nature of safety harness cables, which match the height and weight of taller walkers. Although it may seem challenging, those who can hike the plank walk are in for a unique experience that should not be missed if you're fit enough to do so. Show more
