The Emerald Throne of Longzhong: Scaling the Mystical Peaks of Mount Guiqing

The Hidden Sanctuary of Central Gansu

Located at the transitional junction of the Loess Plateau and the Qinling Mountains in Zhang County, Dingxi, Mount Guiqing is a rare ecological gem often referred to as the "Little Huashan of Longzhong". Covering an area of 36 square kilometers, the scenic area features a dramatic landscape characterized by a vertical altitude drop of 600 meters, with the peak reaching 2,340 meters and the valley floor at 1,720 meters. Unlike the arid images typical of central Gansu, Mount Guiqing is a lush sanctuary of primitive forests, limestone formations, and ancient spiritual sites.

Geological Marvels and the Natural Bridge

1.The hallmark of Mount: Guiqing is its breathtaking geological architecture. The site is famous for the Guiqing Natural Bridge, a massive stone span 50 meters long and 15 meters wide created by millennia of natural erosion. Below the peaks lies the Guiqing Grand Canyon, an 8-kilometer-long rift carved by the Longchuan River, featuring sheer cliffs, hidden caves, and the iconic "Line of Sky" (Yi Xian Tian) where the canyon walls nearly converge.

Spiritual Heritage and Ancient Temples

Mount Guiqing has been a site of religious devotion since the Ming Dynasty. During the Jiajing era, the Zhongfo Temple was established, eventually growing into a complex of Ming and Qing dynasty architectural styles. The mountain is home to the "Linlin" ancient forest, which surrounds the temple clusters with fragrant blossoms and centuries-old trees. Every year, on the 8th day of the 4th lunar month, the mountain hosts a traditional temple fair that serves as a vibrant display of local folk beliefs and cultural integration.

A Bastion of Primitive Biodiversity

2.As a designated National Forest: Park, the mountain preserves some of the most intact primitive Cloud Fir forests in the region. The dense canopy provides a habitat for diverse flora and fauna, offering a refreshing microclimate that makes it a premier destination for summer escapes and ecological study. Whether witnessing the "Sea of Clouds" from the western viewpoints or exploring the moss-covered paths of the canyon, visitors encounter a landscape that feels largely untouched by the modern world.