Located in Guzhang County, Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan Province, Red Stone Forest National Geological Park is the world's only Cambrian-period red carbonate stone forest, hailed as the "First Wonder of Wuling". Formed 480 million years ago, this crimson stone forest is a natural museum of Earth's evolution.
Geological Wonders
Formation History
- Geological age: Formed in Cambrian period, about 480 million years ago
- Rock type: Red carbonate rock rich in iron
- Development process: Shaped by crustal movements, dissolution and weathering
Landscape Features
- Scale: Core area covers about 20 square kilometers
- Color variation: Purple-red in sunshine, dark red after rain
- Diverse forms: Tower-like, sword-like, mushroom-like formations
Main Attractions
Core Area
- Heavenly Pool: Natural pool atop stone forest, never dries
- Canyon Crevice: 100-meter-deep red rock fissure
- Red Stone Forest: Rolling crimson stone peaks
Special Landscapes
- Undersea Maze: Unique stone forest preserving seabed sedimentary structures
- Giant's Garden: Tall stone pillars resembling human figures
- One-Line Sky: Narrow, deep red rock crevice
Travel Experience
Special Activities
- Geological study: Decipher Earth's evolutionary history
- Photography: Ideal for sunrise/sunset shots of red stone forest
- Ethnic culture: Participate in Tujia and Miao ethnic activities
Best Seasons
- Spring/Autumn: April-May & September-October, pleasant weather
- After rain: Stone colors are most vibrant
Local Cuisine
- Guzhang Maojian Tea: Famous local tea
- Cured Meat: Western Hunan specialty
- Sour Fish: Traditional Tujia preserved dish
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Open year-round 8:00-17:30 (last entry 16:30)
Ticket Prices
- Adult ticket: ¥120/person
- Shuttle bus: ¥30/person (optional)
Transportation
- Self-drive: About 1.5 hours from Zhangjiajie
- Public transport: Shuttle buses from Guzhang County
- High-speed rail: Take train to Jishou East Station then transfer to tourist shuttle
Notes
- Some trails are steep - recommend anti-slip shoes
- Protect geological heritage - no climbing or carving
- Mountain weather changes quickly - recommend rain gear