Bayi Glacier
八一冰川
A large glacier at the source of the Heihe River in the middle Qilian Mountains; self-driving via Yeniugou brings you to the foot of the glacier tongue, where snowy peaks and alpine meadows share one frame.
Bayi Glacier lies at the source of the Heihe River in northwestern Qilian County. Its terminus sits at about 4,500 m, making it one of the Qilian glaciers closest to a road. From the Qilian county seat in Babao Town, drive west along the Heihe through Yeniugou and the upper Heihe pastoral areas for about 170 km (roughly four hours one way), passing endless alpine meadows and herds of livestock. There is no entrance fee and no visitor facilities, so you need an off-road vehicle or a hired car, and should bring your own food, warm clothing and altitude medication. The glacier area lies within the national park, and access is restricted at certain times. Check with the county culture and tourism department before setting out, and do not climb the ice.
Opening hours
Open all day (subject to road conditions and controls)