Wansheng & Heishan Gorge

A canyon playground on Chongqing's southern outskirts, with the long, shaded Heishan Gorge, the cliff swings of Wansheng Ordovician Park and the Wansheng Stone Forest: Chongqing's own "grand canyon on the doorstep."

The Wansheng Economic and Technological Development Zone lies about 100 km south of central Chongqing and is now administered by Qijiang District. Set on the northern foothills of the Dalou Mountains near the Chongqing–Guizhou border, it is classic karst country of high peaks, deep valleys and dense forest, and a favourite weekend escape for Chongqing locals seeking cool air and family outings. The main sights fall into three areas: in the southeast, Heishan Gorge is Chongqing's longest pristine canyon, best explored on plank walkways past streams and waterfalls, or by bamboo raft; around Shilin Town in the south are Wansheng Ordovician Park (cliff swings, a glass bridge and other high-altitude thrills) and Palaeozoic marine stone forests such as the Wansheng Stone Forest and Longlin Stone Sea; Banliao Lake lies to the west, Conglin Qingshan Lake to the north, and Jiuguoqing Forest Park near Guanba Town to the southwest. To the west, Mount Gujian and Dongxi Ancient Town in Qijiang make easy add-ons. Summer temperatures average 5–6°C lower than in central Chongqing; Jun–Aug is the best time to beat the heat, while Sep–Oct is pleasant for autumn trips, and some mountain areas occasionally see snow in winter. From central Chongqing, take the Chongqing–Guiyang Railway, an intercity train or a coach to Wansheng town (about 1.5–2 hours); tourist shuttles and local buses run from town to Heishan Gorge, Ordovician Park and the Stone Forest. Driving via the Chongqing–Guizhou or Qijiang–Wansheng expressways is the most convenient option. Allow 2 days: one for Heishan Gorge, and one for Ordovician Park and the Stone Forest. The full Heishan Gorge walk takes about 4–5 hours with many steps, so bring rain gear and non-slip shoes. The high-altitude attractions at Ordovician Park have height, age and health restrictions; check the park's official notices. Local food to try includes Wansheng barbecue, Qingnian pork and Wansheng clear-broth mutton.

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