Cat Alley Canyon Travel Guide!

Zhidan Cat Alley Canyon is located in Zhidan County, Yan'an City, Shaanxi Province. It is an emerging scenic area that combines natural wonders and geological exploration, famous for its unique Danxia landform and deep canyon. Here is a detailed travel guide to help you plan your trip efficiently: --- **1. Basic Information** - **Location**: Maoxiang Village, Shuanghe Town, Zhidan County, Yan'an City; about 15 km from Zhidan County seat and about 70 km from Yan'an urban area. - **Opening Hours**: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (may vary by season, please confirm before departure). - **Ticket Price**: Approximately 60 RMB per person (including sightseeing bus); discounts available for students and seniors with valid ID. - **Recommended Duration**: 3-4 hours. --- **2. Transportation Guide** - **Self-driving**: - From Yan'an: Take Baomao Expressway (G65) to Zhidan exit, then follow Provincial Road S303 to Maoxiang Village; total about 1.5 hours. - From Xi'an: Direct via Baomao Expressway, about 4 hours by car. - **Public Transport**: - Take a bus from Yan'an Bus Station to Zhidan County (1.5 hours), then taxi or charter a car to the scenic area (about 30 minutes). --- **3. Main Attractions and Activities** 1. **Canyon Landforms**: - **One-line Sky**: The narrowest part only allows one person to pass sideways; rock wall textures are unique and great for photography. - **Pothole Group**: Circular depressions on the riverbed formed by water erosion, a highlight for geology enthusiasts. 2. **Hiking Routes**: - The main canyon is about 5 km long, combining wooden plank paths and original trails; wear anti-slip shoes. - Recommended route: Scenic area entrance → Pothole Viewing Platform → One-line Sky → Sinkhole → Return (about 2.5 hours total). 3. **Seasonal Features**: - **Summer**: Lush greenery and cool streams, but watch out for mosquitoes. - **Autumn** (September-October): Colorful foliage, best for photography. - **Winter**: Icefall scenery, but some sections may be closed. --- **4. Practical Tips** - **Recommended Gear**: - Anti-slip hiking shoes, sun hat, windbreaker (temperature varies greatly inside the canyon). - Light backpack with enough water and snacks (few supply points inside the scenic area). - **Safety Notes**: - Avoid entering during rainy season to prevent flash floods; some areas have no guardrails, walk carefully. - **Nearby Attractions**: - **Zhidan County**: Visit the Liu Zhidan Martyrs' Cemetery (red tourism site). - **Yongning Ancient Village** (40 minutes by car): A military ancient village on a cliff with broad views. --- **5. Food and Accommodation Recommendations** - **Dining**: - There is a farmhouse restaurant at the scenic area entrance, recommended Shaanbei specialties: buckwheat noodles and mutton buckwheat noodles. - **Accommodation**: - Hotels in Zhidan County (more options): Zhidan Hotel, Hongdu Grand Hotel, etc., priced 150-300 RMB per night. - Farmhouse stays in Maoxiang Village: experience cave dwelling accommodation, about 100 RMB per night (basic conditions). --- **6. Notes** - Mobile signal is weak; download offline maps in advance. - Protect the environment; do not litter or carve on rock walls. - Drones require prior approval; some areas prohibit flying. --- Zhidan Cat Alley Canyon is suitable for visitors who enjoy geological wonders and light hiking. Avoid holidays to enjoy a quieter natural experience. Check the weather in advance and plan your trip well. Have a pleasant journey!