Altay–Hemu Highway (G681)
阿禾公路
The G681 scenic highway from Altay to Hemu, crossing the Altai Mountains past snowy peaks, forests, grasslands and river valleys; a popular self-drive route.
The Altay–Hemu Highway is the scenic road on the G681 route from Altay City to Hemu Village, about 209 km long. It officially opened on 30 June 2025 and has greatly shortened the drive from Altay City to Hemu. The road leaves Altay City heading north, follows the upper Kelan River through the heart of the Altai Mountains, and reaches almost 3,000 metres above sea level. Along the way are snowy peaks, primeval coniferous forest, alpine meadows and pastures. In autumn the golden larches are especially photogenic. It serves as a self-drive route to Hemu and Kanas, with several scenic lay-bys along the way. Mountain weather changes quickly, and temporary traffic controls are often imposed in rain or snow (for example on the Kanas section), so check the traffic authority's real-time road conditions before setting out. Winter driving requires snow tyres. The coordinates refer to the section of the road on the Altay City side.
Opening hours
Open all day (dynamic traffic control in rain or snow; follow traffic notices)
Nearby sights
- Yekaxia Ski Resort
- Dundebulake Cave Paintings
- Kelan Grand Canyon & Xiaodonggou
- Wuzhiquan Spring
- Jiangjunshan Ski Resort
- Birch Forest Park (Shalifuhan Park)
- Kelan Riverside Scenic Area
- Camel Peak