Jiayuguan-Ejina Populus Euphratica Round Trip

Travel in and out of Ejina from Jiayuguan, covering Heicheng, the Weird Forest, the Populus Euphratica Forest, and Juyan Lake in one go.

The most time-efficient way to see the Populus Euphratica. Jiayuguan is the closest major hub to Ejina, about a 4.5-hour drive one way, making it easy to connect with Hexi Corridor itineraries. Spend two nights in Dalaihubu. The first day is for traveling and visiting the Weird Forest, the second day is for the Populus Euphratica Forest, and the last day is for shooting the sunrise at Juyan Lake before returning via Jinta. The driving distance on the last day is long; if time permits, you can stay one more night in Ejina.

The Populus Euphratica leaves turn golden around early-to-mid October, and start to fall in late October.

Day by day

Day 1 · Cross the Gobi to Heicheng & Weird Forest

Ejin (Ejina)（Khara-Khoto Ruins、Weird Forest (Dead Populus Forest)）

Drive about 370 km from Jiayuguan to Ruoshui, taking around 4.5 hours; departing at 7:00 AM is recommended.

The sunset at the Weird Forest is the best; do not linger too long at the earlier attractions.

Stay: Dalai Hubu Town

Day 2 · 2nd Bridge & 4th Bridge Populus Euphratica

Ejin (Ejina)（Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest (Bridges 2-4)、Badao Bridge & Badain Jaran Desert）

Tour using the scenic area shuttle bus, covering an internal distance of about 50 km; spend the entire day inside the Populus Euphratica Forest.

Accommodation during peak season is basic and tight; book your room at least one month in advance.

Stay: Dalai Hubu Town

Day 3 · Juyan Lake Sunrise & Return to Jiayuguan

Ejin (Ejina)（Juyan Lake） → Jiayuguan（Jinta Desert Populus Euphratica Forest）

Drive from Dalaihubu Town to Juyan Lake, taking about 1 hour, then return to Jiayuguan via Jinta, taking about 7 hours in total.

You will be traveling all day and are expected to arrive in Jiayuguan in the evening; it is not advisable to connect with a night drive on the same day.

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