This attraction introduction is compiled from historical materials in the "Zhangjiajie Tour Guide Network" (33519.com · Scenic Spots section). Ticket prices, opening hours, transportation, and contact information mentioned in the text may be outdated. Please refer to the latest official announcements from the scenic area before traveling; some content consists of historical background/cultural introductions and is for reference only.
Gaowangjie is a state-owned forest farm established in 1958, with a total area of 200,000 mu, a forest area of 153,000 mu, and a forest coverage rate of 88.4%. The average annual temperature is 12.5°C, with a distinct microclimate. When the temperature is high, it does not feel hot; when the temperature is low, it does not feel piercingly cold.
Gaowangjie has 70,000 mu of virgin secondary forest distributed across seven places—Daxi, Jinlongxi, Heidongxi, Gezhuxi, Changshadong, Maxi, and Chunmuya—forming diverse plant communities. To date, 863 species of woody plants in 100 families have been discovered, including more than 30 tree species under state protection such as dove tree, dawn redwood, red-flowered manglietia, and emmenopterys. Rare wildlife includes the fruit civet, Temminck's tragopan, and Wuling rock frog. Standing at the Wangta Tower on Gaowangjie's highest peak, one can view the green hills of Luxi to the south and the emerald waters of Qifeng to the north.
Due to the towering mountains, steep terrain, and rich vegetation, there are numerous streams and cascading waterfalls. Major streams such as Daxi, Jinlongxi, Gezhuxi, and Heidongxi flow into Qifeng Lake. Each stream is formed by many smaller brooks converging together—streams within streams, all interconnected. Walking along the streams, one can see ancient trees hanging upside down against sheer cliffs and flying waterfalls startling the fish below. Even better is the vast sea of forest at Gaowangjie: in spring, mountain flowers bloom in brilliant colors, filling the air with fragrance and vitality; in summer, the trees are lush and verdant, stretching green for miles, cool and pleasant; in autumn, branches are laden with fruit, fallen leaves dance in the autumn breeze, carpeting the ground in brocade; in winter, heavy snow falls, trees are adorned with ice and rime, crystal clear and sparkling. At Gaowangjie, one can stroll leisurely on flat areas, climb and explore on steep terrain, and enjoy winding mountain paths and a comfortable climate. With mountain shops and rural villages where chickens and dogs can be heard, the place is full of rustic charm—truly an ideal destination for sightseeing, summer retreats, seeking tranquility, and adventure.
