Explore Helan Mountain: Scenic Peaks, Wildlife & Western Xia Heritage
In the vast northwestern plains of China, the Helan Range stands like a natural barrier between the Ningxia plain and the Alxa Desert. Helan Mountain National Forest Park, a 4A scenic area just 50 km from Yinchuan, blends dramatic mountain scenery, rich ecology and mysterious Western Xia culture into an immersive nature escape. Hikers, photographers and culture seekers alike will find their own corner of wild beauty here.
1. Core highlights: Desert meets forest in a vertical landscape
The soul of Helan Mountain National Forest Park lies in its striking vertical ecological zones and a landscape that is at once rugged and graceful. The park stretches from 1,448 to 3,556 meters above sea level; from foot to summit the land unfolds desert grasslands, mixed conifer and broadleaf forests, and alpine meadows — a three-dimensional ecology textbook. Rare animals such as the Tibetan ibex and sika deer live here. Seasons change dramatically: wildflowers in spring, cool shade in summer, vivid autumn foliage and snow-capped peaks in winter. Scattered among the slopes, Western Xia cultural relics add historical depth to this natural refuge.
2. Must-see sights and experiences
· Cherry Valley and Qingsong Ridge
Cherry Valley (Yingtao Valley) is the park’s central gorge, known for dramatic cliffs and clear streams; it’s a cool summer haven ideal for hiking and stream trekking. Qingsong Ridge is dense with ancient pine forests; from its heights you can overlook the entire Yinchuan plain and catch the spectacular “Helan Clear Snow” sunset.
· High-altitude cableway and canyon suspension bridge
Thrill-seekers should not miss the 1,200-meter high-mountain cableway. This 15-minute aerial ride reveals the park’s shifting geology. The canyon suspension bridge that spans a deep ravine tests your courage: beneath your feet is a hundred-meter drop and around you the roar of mountain wind.
· Cultural landmarks: Helan Mountain Que and the Century Tower
The Helan Mountain Que, built in a Western Xia style, serves as the park’s emblematic gateway; bold rock-relief carvings depict stories of the Tangut (Tangut/Dangxiang) people. At 2,900 meters, the Century Tower is the park’s high point — from here you can gaze as far as the Inner Mongolian grasslands and feel the historical spirit evoked by the line “drive long chariots, break through the Helan pass.”
3. In-depth activities recommended
· Stargazing and photography
Thanks to the dry climate and low light pollution, the park is acclaimed by astronomers as Yinchuan’s backyard sky theater. In summer nights, set up a tripod at the Qingsong Ridge camping area to shoot the Milky Way and star trails.
· Tibetan ibex tracking
At dawn or before dusk around the Tuer Keng area you can often spot herds of ibex bounding across cliffs. The park has wildlife-viewing trails; bring binoculars and observe quietly.
· Western Xia themed trail
The 3-kilometer “Western Xia Hidden Trail” features Tangut inscribed steles and reconstructed ancient beacons. QR codes along the way provide bilingual audio guides, making it perfect for families who want to hike and learn together.
4. Practical guide
Tickets and hours
– Peak season (April–October): 80 CNY; off-season: 40 CNY — basic admission only. Cableway roundtrip 120 CNY (sold separately).
– Opening hours: 08:00–18:00. Stargazing camping requires advance reservation.
Getting there
– Public transport: Take Tour Bus “You 2” (You2) from the Yinchuan Tourist Bus Station; journey about 1.5 hours.
– By car: Navigate to “Helan Mountain National Forest Park East Gate.” Parking fee: 10 CNY/day.
Local tips
– Best times to visit: May–June (wildflowers) and September–October (autumn colors). Some trails close in winter.
– Significant temperature differences at the summit — carry a windbreaker even in summer.
– Limited dining inside the park; bring snacks and pack out your trash.
Conclusion
Helan Mountain National Forest Park redefines what a park can be with its vast mountain moods and untamed life. There are no noisy amusement rides here, but you might catch an ibex dashing over a ridgeline or stand atop the Century Tower and feel the power of millions of years of geology. If your Yinchuan itinerary seeks a true wilderness experience, Helan Mountain is an essential stop.
